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10 Questions with ... Doug LaGambina
December 1, 2009
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
Various promotion stints with some fancy and some not-so-fancy titles at Imago, TVT, Nettwerk, Giant, Red Ant and Immortal. If I left one out it's because there was a lot of substance abuse in the early '90s and I don't recall it.
1) What led you to a career in the music business?
A strong desire to play music that was unfortunately not supported by any talent.
2) Why are the poor All Access readers once again forced to endure a year-end 10 Questions from you?
Well, I can think of no better gift at the end of a busy and dramatic year than a few inspiring words from me to them. I also find it a cathartic way to end the year. But enough about me, let's continue to talk about you (...who is still me).
3) As you look back on the year in Rock 2009, do you find yourself in happy reflection or shuddering in horror?
I have mixed feelings about 2009. What was bad for the economy was good for rock and roll, because anger and adversity inspires great music ... and I think we saw that this year. I also saw a lot of good people fall victim to cutbacks and that is never good. I think 2010 will be a year where a lot of good people will end up reinventing themselves within the industry. I for one would like to be reinvented as a weather balloon allegedly carrying a small boy in to the sky.
4) You spend a lot of time talking to radio. What has been a recurring theme/mood amidst the downsizing in this industry?
Radio programmers are wearing a lot of hats now that some of their colleagues have been let go. They need labels; managers and local venues to understand that they are juggling a lot of new responsibilities that may require some patience from those they are doing business with.
5) What has proven to be important when dealing with programmers that are working under these circumstances?
Well, as mentioned before, patience, but also persistence. A PD who lost his MD and Promotions Director this year is not sitting around waiting for your call. Also, being respectful of their time has been key this year. That means being familiar with their playlist and having relevant information in front of you.
6) What's been your most rewarding project to work this year?
I'm pretty proud of 30 Seconds To Mars' re-entry. Ray Gmeiner and I worked together on the first record when I was at Immortal, telling radio we will break this band despite the stigma against actors in bands. I also think Killswitch Engage is getting the recognition they deserve this year.
7) What's the best concert you've been to so far this year and why?
I'd have to say Them Crooked Vultures at the Wiltern rocked my face off. Luckily, I've been told I have two, so I should be okay.
8) It's been five years since you first started at All Access. Has there been one truth that has remained constant throughout your career here and/or previously?
First, business is business, don't take things personally. Second, sometimes people type LOL when they never actually laughed out loud. It's true. I've seen it happen.
9) What was the first concert you ever attended?
KISS in Minneapolis. I was too young to go on my own or get my parent's permission, so I went with a friend and his older brother. I climbed out my bedroom window and jumped off the roof and twisted my ankle. It wasn't easy keeping up with my friends, but it was well worth it.
10) What are the biggest changes you would like to see happen in the music industry?
Stop fighting technology. I'd also like to see Lady Gaga do a song with Slipknot.
Bonus Questions
What are the first and last things you do when at the office every day?
Get coffee and pull up Mediabase. I like to have a good cry just before I leave.
What's one thing that would surprise many people to learn about you?
I have man crush on Don Draper.
Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?
A kiss on the cheek from my daughter on my way out the door. Sure, the giant travel mug full off hot coffee I'm holding at the time is pretty vital as well.
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