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10 Questions with ... Don Black
April 8, 2008
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NAME:Don BlackPOSITION:PD/AfternoonsSTATION:WPIA 98.5 Kiss FMMARKET:PeoriaOWNER:Independence Media
Please outline your radio career so far:
Previously PD/mornings at Power 92.3 (WZPW) in Peoria. Started radio at the age of 16! Have worked Active Rock, Classic Rock, Rhythmic, Hot AC and Oldies! Interned and worked for two of the greatest PDs -- Todd Cavanah and Elroy Smith. I always mention this because it's cool!
1) What led you to a career in radio?
My grandmother took me to very first radio station (Kennedy-King College, WKKC). I was there to learn how to spin records, but wound up auditioning for a teen radio show
2) What makes your station unique? How would you compare it to other stations you've worked at?
People have said that Mainstream Top 40 doesn't work in Peoria, so we are trying to change that with more variety, more music and a hellacious street presence. We are doing the same kind of things that we did at WZPW when I programmed it. That station went #1 in 2006. Kiss is on the way!
3) What is your favorite part of the job?
It will always be doing an on-air shift. It was what I did first, and it's still very therapeutic!
4) What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?
Growing up in Chicago. I loved listening to WGCI, B96 and, of course, WBMX (Long Live The Hot Mix 5)
5) Could you give us a little insight into your on-air staff?
Young and hungry! Our midday guy O'Ryan has been here a year and is also our Promotions Director. He comes up with more ideas than I can stand; he will make a good PD someday. Govia does afternoons with me and also does nights. He's been in town for about two years, but has already made a name for himself. The rest of our staff is made up of people who have gone through the ranks of interning and graduated to being on-air. We are teaching the business of radio here.
6) What artist would we be surprised to find on your iPod?
Johnny Cash ("Cocaine Blues").
7) Do you have a favorite hobby outside of radio?
I still like to spin at clubs. That was the way I use to make my money. Going to the club to do a 30-45-minute set just for fun can be sweet relief!
8) Who would be a "dream guest" to have on your show?
I had the opportunity to interview Notorious B.I.G and 2Pac in my college days. Knowing what I know now and being a better interviewer would make for good radio.
9) What is the most challenging part of the job?
Right now, competing against my old station (WZPW) would be the most challenging thing I have ever done. Imagine all the work you put in and then trying to undo it. Pretty wicked, but fun!
10) Are you wearing more "hats" than you have in the past?
Not really. I'm trying to learn even more about the sales side now. You can never wear enough hats. That's what keeps you employed!
Bonus Questions
What ring tone do you have on your cell?
The theme to Law & Order! It's on all times of the day ... so why not on my phone?
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