10 Questions with ... Bootleg Kev

1. Initially, what got you into radio?

I grew up a fan of shows like Lights Out Phoenix w/ Melissa the Midnight Mamacita, MG's Morning Madhouse, The Nutz, and Friday Night Flavas on Power in Phoenix. But it wasn't until I went to EVIT during my high school years for radio broadcasting that I truly fell in love with radio and decided it was what I wanted to pursue. Steve Grosz, my teacher at the time had a lot to do with my career going in that direction and I am extremely grateful for that guy! And everyone else that has helped along the way!

2. What did you dream of becoming when you were a kid?

An NBA Player to be honest. aha! Either that or just involved in hip hop music. Which is why radio really was perfect for me. I was able to be apart of something that I loved so much (Hip Hop music), without having to rap or make beats.

3. What made you look to syndication?

Syndication was something I always wanted to get into. It was something I had been plotting with Brian Samson for some years, and in January of 2020 when iHeart launched their Format Center program, I really realized that it was the direction I needed to turn my radio career to if I wanted to not only set myself up for even more longevity in the business, but also monetarily put myself in the best position. I appreciate United Stations for signing off on my show before we had a single affiliate, and of course Doc Wynter, DJ A-Oh, DJ Complex, Big Bear, Mambo, Jonathan Steele, Orlando Davis, DJ Amen, Rob Morris, and Reno Media Group for believing in the show EARLY!

4. Who were some of your radio mentors?

Joey Boy (He named me Bootleg Kev) & J.Philla (aka: The Nutz), Orlando Davis, Doc Wynter, Tim Richards, DJ Complex, Bruce St. James, Charlamagne Tha God, Matt Hirt, Danny Whispas, Davey D (The N'awlins Legend), Baby Joel (AKA THE BABY DUDE), A-Oh...and I cannot forget THESE GUYS: Lee L'Heureux, Brannon Scales, and Brian Samson.

5. What about from the music side. What artists stand out to you as motivators?

Russ motivates me from the aspect of being fully vertical on the business side. Blxst and his situation as well. As far as actual artists that motivate me to go harder and still love this culture: Freddie Gibbs, Conway The Machine, Benny The Butcher, Westside Gunn, Cordae, Lil Baby, Gorilla Nems, Hit-Boy, etc. I can go on.

6. Where are you based now? Why?

I'm based in Los Angeles (North Hollywood to be exact). LA is an amazing city. One that has allowed me to make a better life for me and my family. It's close to the hometown (Arizona), and has always welcomed me with open arms. Proud to call this place my home.

7. What has the pandemic taught you about yourself?

To bet on myself. To depend on myself. And that time truly is the most valuable currency.

8. 2022 is going to be a big year for _________?

Alexcis, Ray Vaughn, and Symba.

9. If you weren't in radio, what do you think you'd be doing professionally?

ever even had that thought cross my mind. But I guess if you talked to the 18-year-old me, I'd say a history teacher.

10. What do you like to do in spare time? Has the pandemic brought you any new hobbies/interests?

In my spare time I like to hang out with my wife and kids. Watch Yellowstone (Kevin Costner is a G!), play video games, and bet on sports.

If you could be on any TV reality show or game show, which would you want to be on?

I'd take the wife and kids on Family Feud.

You're stuck on a deserted island for one month with an album, a movie and a TV show...

Album: Freddie Gibbs - Alfredo or Kanye's MBDTF.
Movie: The Big Lebowski
TV Show: Right now, YELLOWSTONE!