10 Questions with ... Rev. Keith Coes

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

I started in college radio at WRVU/ Vanderbilt University; after that I worked at News/Talk/Sports WLAC, Alternative WWRB (Rebel 100) -- the station that eventually became Lightning 100. Now I am at WRLT.

1. How did you become interested in radio?

I grew up listening to 830 WCCO and KSTP 1510. I ultimately went to the Minnesota State Fair, where I got to meet my favorite radio announcers. I loved it.

2. You have been at WRLT for a long time; how has the station evolved over the years?

There was not even a Triple A format when I started at Lightning 100. We were just happy to get service from record labels!

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

An eclectic mix of Adult rock for music lovers.

4. Most surprising records of the past 12 months?

Mumford & Sons, One Eskimo, The Black Keys

5. Tell us about your weekly music meeting with PD David Hall.

I take music calls every week and have to discuss tunes with label reps and a host of indies. I download all of the music into my iTunes account and listen during the week; trying to narrow it down to about 15 or 20 to seriously consider is difficult. We meet every Friday and listen to the tunes and discuss the music.

6. What do you like best about your job?

I love music, going to concerts, festivals and conventions.

7. What has been your biggest career highlight?

Attending every Bonnaroo; standing on the stage at The Ryman and meeting some very talented artists.

8. Besides your own, what is your favorite radio format?

Sports Talk and NPR

9. What is the best advice you would give to young programmers/promotion people?

Talk shop with as many music business veterans as you can. You need to know the past to see into the future.

10. If you wanted to completely change careers today, what would you do?

Sports marketing or a chef.

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

Follow the Minnesota Vikings, travel and cooking.

Last non-industry job:

Mail clerk at the Social Security Administration and delivering pizzas.

First record ever purchased:

Sly & the Family Stone"Fresh"

First concert:

Boston w/Sammy Hagar

Favorite band of all-time:

Hard to narrow it down to one. Metallica, Slayer, The Cure, Flaming Lips.