10 Questions with ... Chris Chmielewski

1) What was your first job in radio and early influences?

My first job in radio was here at 98 Rock as a Promotions Assistant. My background at the time was in live production (theaters, music, etc.) and event preparation/planning. I was always an avid radio listener, but it never crossed my mind that it could be career.

2) Was there a defining moment that led you to this business and made you realize "this is what I want to do?"

I've had a ton of random jobs throughout my life, and radio kind of melded all the skills that I've learned together. I've always had fun with it but once I started producing full-time for our AM sister station, I was hooked.

3) How long have you been at WIYY (98 Rock) and what makes this station so unique?

I've been here for two-and-a-half years. We have such a great staff both on-air and off that really make this place unique.

4) Congrats on your recent promotion to APD. Having started as a Promotions Assistant in 2015, that's a rapid ascent. What other new duties will you be assuming at 98 Rock?

Thanks man! I'm lucky - I've been ready and willing in the right place at the right time on several occasions. I'm always trying to get involved in as much as I can; I help out with producing our Ravens coverage, the engineering of our remote broadcasts, and anything else that can help keep the wheels greased and running smoothly.

5) Since you're also involved with the music on WIYY, describe your weekly music meeting ... a) what is the process when you listen to new music? b) approximately how important by percentage is gut, research, sales, video play and chart position when determining the status of a record.

It's pretty free flowing -- a few of us sit down and go over everything that we have on the air currently, what's on the charts, and anything new that we come across. I'd say that we focus fairly heavily on research and gut instinct, followed by the charts. Sales and video play are pretty tertiary.

6) What's your take on current Active Rock music and the Rock format overall?

We're in a unique time where there is a huge variety of rock music. There are newer bands that are pulling strong influences from good ol' classic Rock n' Roll and then there are older bands that are completely overhauling their sound.

7) What are your three favorite artists or songs of this past year and why?

I'll say Foo Fighters, Manson and Greta van Fleet. I was so stoked when Run was released that song really gets me amped up and there is something about Kill4Me's groove that just keeps drawing me back in. Greta van Fleet stands by themselves for putting out some solid rock.

8) You worked in the 98 Rock Promotion Dept. the last few years. What was one of the most successful Promotions on 98 Rock in 2017?

Without a doubt our Metallica coverage. We were broadcasting from multiple locations in and around M&T Bank Stadium for two days, had multiple interviews with Lars, and our DJs got on stage to bring the band on ... It was a solid two days that our staff and listeners will never forget.

9) WIYY is the flagship station of the NFL's Baltimore Ravens, and you are also Executive Producer for 98 Rock Ravens. What do you do in that role and what kinds of special programming do you do during the NFL season around the games?

We have just over 12 hours of Ravens programming every game day. I program and produce our two pre-game shows, produce the studio-side of our network broadcast, and help with the execution of our simulcast post-game show. We also have a couple of shows throughout the week with current and former Ravens' players that are really fun to produce.

10) Finally, what do you like to do for fun away from your day to day working "radio" mode?

If I'm not at the station, chances are you can find me stuffing my face with some delicious food and/or beer at a local Charm City eatery/pub.