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10 Questions with ... Ian "Slacker" Richards
September 4, 2012
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I started my journey almost 10 years ago in my hometown of Flint, MI at WRCL (Club 93.7). I was the MD and did nights all while working part-time for the last two-and-a-half years here in Detroit.
1) How would you describe your first radio gig?
My first gig was in Flint, MI, the MOST dangerous city in the U.S. Other than that ... it was kind of like "Sex and the City" minus the women.
2) What led you to a career in radio?
One night at a club I tried making fun of the host, who I later found out would be my boss and one of my great friends, Clay Church. He said "Hey, you wanna do Radio?"
3) What is your favorite part of the job?
I love music, but I truly enjoy talking to people every day ... not just on the radio, but in the streets. Finding out what listeners like/don't by personally asking them is fun.
4) What artist would we be surprised to find on your iPod?
Aerosmith. Not sure how big of a surprise that is, but I grew up listening to those guys. I finally had the chance to take my Dad to meet the band a few months ago and it was pretty awesome.
5) Who would be a "dream guest" to have on your show?
Being from Michigan and working in Detroit, I'd have to say Eminem. I've called him out a few times on the show, but he's never called. Em, if you read this, my # is (313) 298-9870.
6) What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?
92.7 WDZZ. Man, I used to listen to "Super Dave" every night and his Hot 9 at 9. I remember recording his show on cassettes. I wonder where those went?
7) Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?
Golf. There is nothing better than forgetting about everything for a few hours and hitting the links.
8) What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?
Just be yourself. We are all human and go through the same problems. It's easier for listeners to connect with you if you're real.
9) What advice you would give people new to the business?
Go above and beyond what's asked of you. Make yourself noticed. Hard work pays off ... I drove an hour both ways and worked seven days a week until I finally got my break. Stay focused and stay persistent. Pay your dues!
10) What is the current state of the radio "talent pool?"
I feel like there's a lot of good talent out there; they just need to be found and given a shot. Maybe a little less of what you "think" a radio jock should sound like and be more of yourself.
Bonus Questions
Name the artist/act (living or dead) you'd love to meet and why?
Can I have one big interview? If so, Biggie and 2 Pac together. I'd love to sit down with those two and just talk about music and the industry back in the '90s. I bet they have some pretty good stories.
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