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10 Questions with ... Mark Summer
November 5, 2013
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I've been broadcasting since 1986. I've worked in Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, Kentucky and West Virginia.
1) How would you describe your first radio gig?
It was at WYTM/ Fayetteville, TN. It was FUN. Full service with block programming. They still do it today.
2) What led you to a career in radio?
A love of music.
3) Are you wearing more "hats" than you have in the past?
A PD has always worn many hats. The challenge is you have different hats for different stations.
4) "Local local local" has always been radio's mantra. How do you keep your station visible and involved in the community?
We go where the bodies are. You have to be seen and top of mind.
5) What is your favorite part of the job?
Hearing a hit for the first time. That's still a thrill.
6) What artist would we be surprised to find on your iPod?
I don't have one. I suppose that's surprising.
7) If you could add one full-time position to your budget right now, what would it be?
Creative Service Director ... someone to devote their whole day to creating imaging.
8) Who is your favorite air personality not on your staff and why do you like them?
Bill Lee at CBS-FM. He's on the "Mount Rushmore" of jocks. One of the best ever and still kicking a$$ today.
Who would be a "dream guest" to have on your show?
Prince
9) What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?
For Top 40, it was WZYP/Huntsville, Y107/Nashville and WBGY (Boogie 93)/Tullahoma. In the '80s, WBGY had a live all-night show on the weekend called "JT and All Night Soul Session." I think that's what it was called. They introduced me to acts like the Deele, Lakeside, Dazz Band and early Hip-Hop. My favorite Rock station was 103 KDF in Nashville.
10) What would you like to do to save radio from its "dying-industry" image?
I could write a thesis on this. Here's one idea. Don't come up with any more titles like "Brand Manager."
Bonus Questions
Name the artist/act (living or dead) you'd love to meet and why?
Johnny Cash ... for a million reasons.
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