10 Questions with ... Gabe Reynolds

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

Started at WWCT Rock 106 in Peoria, IL in 1995. Did weekend overnights for about 3 years before moving to Smooth Jazz 96.5 in Peoria. Stayed in Peoria until working for Orchard Communications/AAA Entertainment until about 2006 when I took a job with Triad in Lincoln, NE as their production director. After about a year I moved back to Peoria to work for Independence Media as the OM and afternoon co-host on their ESPN affiliate. Stayed there for about 2 years before moving to Savannah, GA to become the PD of WFXH Rock 106.1. I was there for about 13 years, serving as the OM for the cluster.

1. How did you become interested in radio?

I don’t remember the exact moment I became interested in radio; it was just kind of always there. However, I do remember the moment that solidified it. My math teacher in high school (I sucked at math) had a poster on his wall that said, “When Will I Ever Use This Stuff.” It listed a bunch of careers with the math skills needed for each job. I found radio DJ and the only math requirement listed was “numerical order.” I figured I could do that.

2. The Sun Radio network covers a lot of territory. Tell us about that.

The network grew out of necessity and opportunity to cover as much area in Texas as possible with the best music under the sun. We’ve got eleven terrestrial and online radio stations that cover 14,800 square miles across central Texas. Several of the frequencies even provide extra local programming including high school football and basketball games.

3. How would you describe the music on the station?

It has a solid base in the Triple A world, but at the same time it’s uniquely Austin. We feature the Sound of our Town throughout the day that puts a spotlight on the incredible music scene here in Central Texas.

4. As you come into the programming chair, do you foresee any major changes to the sound of the station?

The goal is to continue to grow the Sun Radio brand both locally and digitally across multiple platforms. The app currently has over 50,000 downloads and is listened to nationwide, so embracing the digital/online aspect of radio is key to growing the brand. We’ll be going through everything we’re playing and songs we aren’t to make sure we’ve got the best mix of music that represents Austin and the surrounding area.

5. What are some of your biggest challenges as an independent station?

I’m only 6 weeks in, so honestly, I haven’t run into any challenges that seem unique to being an independent station. But I have noticed a sense of freedom, opportunity, and excitement that I haven’t seen in a while.

6. Has the station developed any major benchmark promotions?

Texas Radio Live from Guero’s Taco Bar just celebrated its 10th anniversary as is Austin’s Longest Running Live Radio program. The program was started by Larry Monroe and David Arnsberger and it’s a local artist showcase every Wednesday that also serves as a fundraiser for the Sun Radio Network.

Sun Radio Sessions are a series of new music discovery shows hosted during SXSW week that have long been a staple for the radio station.

7. What do you think of the current state of the Triple A format?

I’ve always found the Triple A format to be very fascinating because it can be unique from station to station. It can truly be tailored to fit your market specifically and I think that holds up now more than ever. That’s why I think the format is currently in a great spot. We can pick and choose the best music from pop, alternative, Americana, rock and of course that large selection of local music in the Austin area.

8. What has been your biggest career highlight?

Simulcasting across all six of our radio stations before, during and after Hurricane Matthew. It really proved what kind of impact radio can still have when it’s live and local.

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

Make sure the music is right.

10. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _________?

Talking to my family. My wife is still currently in Savannah and my kids live in Ohio and Arkansas. So, I try and keep in contact with them as much as possible.

Favorite band of all time?

Rush

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time away from work?

I’m in Austin…it’s all about checking out as much live music as I can.