10 Questions with ... Sid Kelly

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

The show started in Wilkes-Barre, PA as a promotions intern, then produced the morning show and eventually hosted it – then on to nights in Charleston, WV – Roanoke, VA – Saint Louis, MO and mornings in Wichita, KS – Mobile, AL – Richmond, VA – Toledo, OH – and back to Mobile, AL – Indianapolis, IN and now here in Dallas, Texas. Wow, that’s a LOT of moving!!!

1. How would you describe your first radio gig?

I was a promotions intern in my hometown of Wilkes-Barre, PA for Kid Kelly. I had no idea who he was, and I think that helped me. Kid not only hired me as his morning show producer, but he also gave me permission to use his last name on-air. Kid drove in from New York on Monday’s and since we sounded similar, I’d open the show and it sounded like he was there. Smart guy there!

2. What led you to a career in radio?

I was medically discharged from the Navy and back in college for music production. My local station was on campus was looking for interns and my friend convinced me to sign up with him. Look at me now!

3. You’re 2 ½ years into your time in Dallas…is your market # 5 experience everything that you thought it would be so far?

Yes and no. By yes, I mean that I knew this would be hard because everyone is so talented. And no, because you have to experience this situation to understand that everyone thinks two moves ahead at all times. Not only do you have to think about what you’re doing, but you also must consider how you’re going to pivot WHEN the competition does their thing.

4. How does Mason’s morning show set the table for the rest of the station’s broadcast day?

Mason just got to us in late August, so she’s still developing her show. However, Mason has a music intensive show and does a lot of relationship segments. She’s also a superstar on TikTok – which helps the entire station’s reach on social media.

5. You still crack the mic every day, hosting afternoons. What do you still love about being on the air?

Not being the boss! When my first break comes up, it’s like a switch gets flipped and I turn into a different person. I would think that’s a psychological problem, but I’m not a doctor. Or am I?

6. Who would be the ultimate “dream guest” to have come in and sit across from you on your show?

That’s a hard question! I have different answers for that based on the purpose of the interview. Is it for me? The audience? See, the PD in me is coming out. Ahhhh! Next question. Seriously…I’d want Bob Ross. How great would it be to get in a back-and-forth with that guy? Plus, think of the likes we’d get on social if we posted his paintings?

7. “Local local local” has always been radio’s mantra. How do you keep your station visible and involved in the community?

Our number one purpose for existing is to serve the community. If there’s a tornado, ice storm or anything else that impacts our audience, we’re out collecting money/supplies to help. If there’s a large need, we’re there. This is not that hard, but too many stations miss the mark with this and it’s embarrassing.

8. Regardless of market size, what is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?

No matter the market size, if you’re true to who you are and you let the audience experience that intimacy, you’re golden.

9. What were your favorite stations growing up as a kid? Jock(s)?

I listened to Jeff Walker on my hometown station – 98.5 KRZ. He lit me up in a way that had a major impact on me. I’ve had the pleasure of working at KRZ between jobs and got to meet Jeff. What a great guy there!

My other favorite jocks – Kid Kelly (I’m contractually obligated) – Toby Knapp – Kane – Romeo – Christopher Layfield (Boomer) - Colin Cowherd – MJ from Tampa

10. Who were your mentors? Who would you say has influenced your career the most?

I’ve been blessed with being able to learn from some of THE BEST in the business. Kid Kelly, Jeff Kapugi, Christopher Layfield (Boomer), Doug Hamand and Mike McVay.

Christopher Layfield (Boomer) has had the biggest influence on me. Boomer has the unique ability to not only motivate me but inspire me to be a better version of myself both professionally and personally. Boom can simply play a piece of audio to me until it’s finished, look at me in the face, and I’ll immediately pickup on what just happened. It’s weird, right?

With the American Airlines Center at your disposal and an unlimited budget, which 3-5 artists would you pull together for a station show?

Bad Bunny
Justin Bieber
Dua Lipa
Taylor Swift
Kanye West