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10 Questions with ... AJ Anelli
June 22, 2021
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BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:
I started my Radio career a little later than most in the industry. WNKS/Charlotte brought me on as an intern where I started in the promotion’s department, working my way into the programming side as a board-op. I then took a P/T gig at WAPE/Jacksonville to gain more experience on the air. After a year away from Radio, I finally landed my first full-time job doing Nights at WERO (Bob 93.3)/New Bern. A year later I was offered the Night Show back where I started at WNKS (Kiss 95.1). Not too long after, I slid into afternoons and for four years. Skip through 2020, and February of 2021 I was brought on as the new Content Director/MD and Talent for Alpha Media’s WARQ.
1. How would you describe your first radio gig?
I was a 23-year-old college kid who did not realize Radio was more than just music and concerts. There was so much behind the scenes and that drove me to stay and learn more about the business, as I still am today. It’s forever evolving, I feel.
2. What led you to a career in radio?
I met someone who became a good friend and mentor. And my friends and family used to say “I never stop talking” so what’s more fitting than Radio?
3. Are things back to “normal” as far as staff being back in the building and studios these days?
To be honest, no. Not as of yet. And my last job was before the pandemic so I saw people daily. And now it’s just the on-air staff and programmers. The interaction over only Zoom is still very different in the business of communication.
4. What did you learn about yourself as a programmer navigating the pandemic?
I feel like I’ve been on the tail end of programming during the pandemic. It’s still a little tough to get the station out and about with restrictions. It’s on the air where we will continue to be live and local in the community and let the listeners know, Radio is still here.
5. You’re still on the air—hosting the night show every day. Why is it important for you to continue to crack the mic on a daily basis?
Touching on my last answer, Radio is still here. We have all had a tough go this last year, it’s time to make people interact, laugh and let their feelings be heard again. Talking to the listeners never gets old.
6. How does the Brooke & Jeffrey morning show set the tone for the rest of the broadcast day?
Can’t say enough about those guys. They bring the laughter and get the listeners locked in on what they’re going to do next. We appreciate them showing their love to the community as well and for the other jocks on our team. And who doesn’t love Jeffrey’s “Song of the Week?”
7. Which social media platforms are working best for you and the staff these days?
As we’re on the usual platforms, for us in the market, it would be Facebook. We’ve got a good following there and the interaction with listeners answering everyday scenarios is fun.
8. “Local local local” has always been radio’s mantra. How do you keep your station visible and involved in the community? Have you been getting back out there yet?
Anytime we can be a part of something, we are there. It’s slowly picking back up and we are taking any chance to show off our brand. And us, as the Talent or Programmers, we also represent the brand, so the more involved we are as well, the better.
9. Have we heard The Song Of Summer, 2021 yet? If so, what is it?
It will be a toss-up between, “Peaches” “Kiss Me More” and or “good 4 you.” But maybe THE song is still on its way.
10. Who were your mentors? Who would you say has influenced your career the most?
Any programmer that gave me the chance. Otis, Croghan, Chris Mann, Gina Gray and a few others that probably shaped me in some way. I’m influenced by the ones who know it never comes easy, the ones that have worked hard, been fired, been out of work but continued to strive for what they want, because it’s what they love to do.
Bonus Questions
With the Colonial Life Arena at your disposal and an unlimited budget, which 3-5 acts would you pull together for a Q 93.5 welcome back concert?
WOAH, unlimited budgets! - Dua Lipa, Bruno Mars, Billie Eilish, The Weeknd and of course Olivia Rodrigo. Book them! Let’s go!
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