10 Questions with ... JB King

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I began working in radio in 1992 while attending college at U.C. Davis, at KDVS. Then moved onto KSFM in Sacramento from 1992 through 1998. I moved to Las Vegas in April of 1998, for afternoon drive on KLUC. I spent the next 18 years hosting afternoon drive, as well as handling assistant program director and music director duties. In 2015, I became Program Director for KLUC. In 2016, I moved off air to take over the role of Operations Manager for CBS Radio, now Audacy, as well as Brand Manager for KLUC and KXQQ.

1. How would you describe your first radio gig?

Educational, a true passion-driven, learning experience. I worked with some incredible talent and programmers; it was the foundation for everything I am today.

2. What led you to a career in radio?

An internship just to get some school credit and to add to my resume quickly turned into a business that I NEEDED to be part of. After a few months I was hooked, still am.

3. You’re in the midst of an incredible run in Las Vegas, with 24 years or so in the books. Can you spotlight a handful of highlights from that part of your career?

Almost too many to count. But I always go back to some of the events where you just know you made a massive connection with the listener. The insane KLUC Party Cruises, hosting the crazy boy band concerts and after parties of the late 90’s, Vegas club nights of the early 2000’s…there are just so many.

4. How did navigating the pandemic make you a better programmer?

It really taught me how to better manage my time, especially between work and family…and homeschooling kids. I figured out better ways to prioritize my days.

5. With all of the technology and information at our disposal these days, is it easier or harder to find the real hits in 2022?

Great question. Can I say both? Sometimes the info helps and sometimes it doesn’t. I think the massive hits are still very easy to find. They sound like hits, they look good in research and all the metrics, (The Kid Laroi “Stay,” The Weeknd “Blinding Lights”). But then you have some that sneak up on you or come back (Glass Animals “Heat Waves”). I believe, you need to look at all the data, know your stations sound, know what fits and always follow your gut. Never be afraid to admit you’re wrong and pivot on or off a song.

6. Chet Buchanan has been a morning mainstay on the station since 1999. How do he and his show jump start the rest of the station’s broadcast day?

Vegas has been waking up with the Chet Buchanan Show for so long. It’s the daily connection that our audience needs, like a cup of morning coffee.

7. What is the one truth that has held constant throughout your career?

Work hard, be passionate, always listen, never stop learning and trying to improve yourself.

8. What was your favorite station(s) to listen to when you were a kid? Jock(s)?

If you grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area during the 70s/early 80s you listened to the Big 610 KFRC, Dr. Don Rose. In the late 80s/early 90s, you listened to KMEL, John London, Renel Lewis, Rick Chase, Sway & Tech.

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

I’ve learned so much from so many. Early in my career, Chuck Field gave me my first shot on-air and glimpse into the programming world. When I moved to Vegas, Cat Thomas allowed me to push myself on-air into an award winning talent, as well as gave me many programming opportunities that have led to where I am today.

10. What are some ‘under the radar’ places (casinos, restaurants, etc.) that you’d recommend out-of-town visitors to check out?

I always tell people, don’t forget about Downtown Las Vegas. Great restaurants and bars. Just a cool vibe. They have really revitalized the areas around Fremont Street over the past 10 years.