10 Questions with ... Rick Stone

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

A&M Records - (Around the time of "Frampton Comes Alive")

• JMA 1998 - present

1) What led you to a career in the music business?

The jocks on New York City radio, CKLW/Detroit, and the music in general.

2) What's been the most significant change in the business since you've been in it?

The Internet of course. We should be communicating better but we are not. And it's much more work now to accomplish similar results.

3) How is the relationship between programmer and record label changing? For better or worse?

The working relationship will always need work because the two businesses have different business models, evaluations and results. The goal is to meet mutually as best you can which is an ongoing process and very doable . It is much harder today in a world of constant business transition and consolidation.

4) What's your take on the current music scene? Is it as good as six months ago, better, or about the same?

My take is irrelevant. It's the audience decides and every generation embraces its current heroes just like we did growing up. That being said, I do not see any dramatic shift in musical tastes in just six months.

5) What can radio and record companies be doing with their radio station web sites to drive more music fans to these sites?

Brand the artist and the radio station with the song currently getting played. We should be partners.

6) Many say that because of the Internet, we are now in a "singles business." Should musicians be writing and recording every song with the intention of getting radio play? Or is today's music consumer looking for more of those "deep tracks" rather than three-minute uptempo songs with catchy hooks?

We have always been in a singles business and there will always be exceptions. Musicians should create the music they feel and let their promotion and marketing team deal with making it popular.

7) What is the biggest thrill about breaking new music to the masses?

Hearing your artist's songs on the radio has always been, and will always be a thrill.

8) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?

No matter what technology we are using at the moment personal relationships are and will always be everything.

9) How do you stay in tune with today's music audience and consumer trends?

I listen to music and check all types of media daily. I also go to record stores when I can find one.

10) What do you feel is the most important issue facing record labels in the current business environment?

Being profitable with a sustainable business model that's scaled properly to the market and the relationship the consumer has with music.

1) Do your remember the first record that you ever bought?

Nope , but it was a 45 and is probably going for a hundred bucks on e bay.

2) Which character on a current TV series most reflects your personality?

I wish it was Larry David.

3) What "reality show" can you see yourself on.

The Marriage Ref.

4) Do you hate talking on the phone when you're not working?

No, I love talking to people.