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10 Questions with ... Fritz
December 12, 2006
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NAME:FritzTITLES:Music DirectorSTATION:WEBNMARKET:CincinnatiCOMPANY:Clear ChannelBORN:Parts UnknownRAISED:New York
1) What was your first job in radio? Early influences?
I was part time at WRRV/Poughkeepsie, NY. I grew up listening to New York City radio -- the formerly great K-Rock and W-NNNNNN-B-C so I was raised on some of the most influential jocks -- Stern and even Imus -- back in the day.
2) What led you to a career in radio? Was there a defining moment that made you realize "this is it"?
Well, I didn't have enough talent to be a rock star so I thought radio was a way to be in the "biz." When I got my first PD gig in Ft. Myers, FL and started to "get it," I realized I'm stuck! After 12 years I don't know how to do anything else!
3) What makes your station or market unique? How does this compare to other markets or stations you have worked at?
The heritage of WEBN is like no other. Next year we celebrate our 40th anniversary. I've never worked for a radio station where the mascot is the most recognizable figure in the city -- you see the 'EBN frog everywhere. Our stickers don't even have the call letters on them, but once you see the frog you know it's 'EBN. Joel Moss does an incredible job of imaging the station. Our fireworks draw over half a million people every year -- pretty unique.
4) How have the recent FCC regulations impacted the way you program your music and the station's dialogue on the air? What are your feelings about these recent changes?
It really hasn't changed the programming, with the exception of making sure you have "radio edits" when necessary. As far as my show, I know how to push it right to the edge, but am aware enough to not cross the line. I can't afford a $320,000 fine for saying F*#K. Thanks Janet Jackson -- I'll see you in hell.
5) Where do you see the industry and yourself five years from now?
I see a lot less bodies -- which sucks, but that's big business. I think people need to pick jobs where they see heritage. Also you have to be a multi-tasker to survive these days. You have to do more than an airshift to be valuable to a company these days. I knock on wood that in five years I'll be right where I am at WEBN.
6) How is the relationship between programmer and record label changing? For better or worse?
There are a lot of silly forms to fill out for a box of win-it-before-you-can-buy-its! Also, we're not doing nearly as many promotions with labels as in the past. Too much red tape and legalities -- it's a shame.
7) If you could add one full-time position to your budget with no questions asked, what would it be?
A PROMOTIONS ASSISTANT! Our station is insanely promotionally active. Honestly, we could use about five promotions assistants for all the gigs we do.
8) Of all the skills you have gained through the years, is there an area you'd like to improve?
Yeah -- production. I can admit it, I'm not so good. But I can schedule a music log like nobody's business!
9) What are your three favorite artists or songs of this year?
I love the Hurt CD "Volume 1." The new Stonesour is amazing. Also really digging the Army Of Anyone -- hopefully these guys can be a real supergroup, unlike others who aren't living up to the hype.
10) How do you keep tabs on the competition? When your competition attacks you on the air, how do you react?
We're 'EBN -- we don't do a damn thing! If you attack us, you'll just look weak.
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