10 Questions with ... Brad Davidson

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I started my career in 1998 at Columbia Records, first as a College Rep and later as head of Columbia's College Radio Department. I handled regional promotion for the Northeast, then was named VP/Pop Promotion, based in NYC. Next, I was VP/Pop at Reprise before being named SVP at TVT.

1) What is your favorite part of the job?

Being part of the creative process and developing a song into a single ... the daily interaction with our artists and seeing their growth as they reach new heights and milestones as artists.

2) Brag on the artists that you work with. What's going on in their worlds right now?

We the Kings are getting ready to go to Asia for a few weeks; Diane Birch is back from playing with Stevie Wonder in Europe. Looking forward to a new Diane Birch album, which we are making this fall. Also the incredible interactive video launch of Andy Grammer!

3) What's been your most rewarding/frustrating project to work?

Diane Birch has been both for me. It is frustrating because we haven't had the chance to expose her to the masses via radio, but also the most rewarding because I know she is the right song away from connecting and being a next-level superstar.

4) What's the longest road trip you've ever been on ... and where did it take you?

Dan Pearson and I did the "50 states in 50 days" tour a few years ago. We wound up hitting about 36 states, but it was an amazing experience overall. Plus, we have all the video footage, so when I am retired, I can go back and relive the laughter and tears.

5) What's the worst excuse you ever heard from a programmer?

That's tough to say, but it can be frustrating when people try to micro a song because of a particular lyric. You want to work singles that are, of course, radio-friendly, but you don't want to just create a homogenized sound and be ordinary.

6) What artist would we be surprised to find on your iPod?

Probably alot of jazz piano music by Rodney Kendrick or Monk.

7) What was your favorite station to listen to when you were a kid?

I grew up listening to 'FNX in Boston. Radio, at that point, was such a part of the youth culture. I was a skater and all my friends listened to FNX.

8) Looking back, which years hold the best musical memories for you and who were your favorite acts at that time?

It's spread out, but the best part of my experience has been working with some amazing artists. My favorites include Train, Pete Yorn, Lauryn Hill, Diane Birch, We the Kings, Jessica Simpson and Pitbull.

9) Do you have a favorite hobby?

Running on the beach with my dogs, Fenway and Brady!

10) What advice you would give people new to the business?

Get in it for the right reasons. You have to have a passion for the music or else you will never really be happy and content with your career.

What ringtone do you have on your cel?

"Ridin Solo" is my ringback! I just switched it up. You would be surprised how many people comment once you change your ringback.