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10 Questions with ... Derek 'The Bigg DM' Jurand
May 20, 2008
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TITLE:Program DirectorSTATION:WMXV V101.5MARKET:Florence/Muscle Shoals, ALCOMPANY:URBan Radio BroadcastingBORN:June, 19**, Oakland, CARAISED:Oakland, CA
Please outline your career path.
WJIZ/96-99, WJFX/99, WQQK/99-06, WHRP/03-05, WUBT/04, WQVE-WZBN/06-08, WMXV/08-Present
1) What was your first job in radio? Early influences?
My 1st job in radio was being an intern at KJLH in the Sales Department. Growing up listening to vets such as Cliff Winston, Nick Harper, John London and Michael Erickson made me believe that I could do radio.
2) What led you to a career in radio? Was there a defining moment that made you realize "this is it"?
My stepfather passed away in 1996, and it made me realize life is too short not to follow your dreams. I have always been a DJ just not on the professional level.
3) If you were just starting out in radio, knowing now what you didn't then, would you still do it?
Yes I would ... and I would do it the same way. Nothing beats hard work.
4) Where do you see yourself and the industry five years from now? How do you feel about the PPM eventually replacing the diary?
In five years I hope to see myself as a Regional PD or a Dir. of Programming. The industry will continue to grow and lean heavily on the Internet and will try to create a social networking environment with radio. PPM is a great measuring tool to see who actually is really listening to your station(s). Once some of the technical issues get worked out it will be a good thing.
5) How you feel about being made to wait on a record you hear until the research validates it?
I personally feel that too much emphasis is placed on research; however I understand the logic and dynamics that's associated with it. A great place to test records are with your DJs in the mix shows. The mix show DJ really is a substantial portion to your overall research, because they are usually in the streets, checking out YouTube and MySpace heavily and are in the clubs. With R&B records, if you have a great record out the gate, there should be no question ... play it and let the listeners decide. We have to be in the business of playing great records, no matter if they are signed or an independent. The playing field is different now.
6) What is going to happen to the training of tomorrow's talent and programmers if the current trend continues? How do you feel about syndication and voice-tracking?
Syndication and voicetracking are where our industry is right now. Future radio personalities and programmers need to continue to learn the basics and be able to multi-task.
7) What adjustments have you had to make in your new position?
Coming into the situation, I knew I had my hands full. It was basically a re-launch. Long days being away from the family, but I love what I do and I have a great team at URBan Radio.
8) Of all the skills you have gained through the years, is there an area you'd like to improve?
Continue to work on my time management. Also continue to develop relationships with others in our business. There are so many opportunities available if we just work and build.
9) How do you feel the current situation with fines and firings is going to affect future morning shows? Are air personalities going to be less creative and adventuresome because of the fear of being fired?
Future morning shows will have to understand that there's a balance. Urban-formatted morning shows will always have a place in radio. Black radio is still the voice of the people. Creativity in jocks as well as stations having Internet sites with streaming will prove effective. The "reality" radio concept and personality-driven jocks will have a home once again. Even though we love our music as long as there's balance, it's not bad. There are times when we allow our guards to fall; it happens to all in our position, so you learn to make adjustments as you grow and learn. There's no perfect formula you have to have instinct and take risks.
10) As you look back over your career ... any regrets? Missed opportunities?
My radio career so far is just getting started and I look forward to many more years. Sometimes I do wonder, though, if I didn't hear "Rapper's Delight" on the radio that day.......
Bonus Questions
What would people who think they know you be surprised to find out about Derek?
I love to play dominoes.
How did you get your present job?
By maintaining my relationships with others in the business. It put me in a position to where I could possibly find another job.
What do you do with a song you don't like?
I just don't play it. I have missed some records, I'm not perfect by no means.
Describe your favorite meal?
Breakfast ....all day long!
How do you personally feel about moving to stay employed?
I can't lie, it's rough on the family life. However, with technology it makes doing the job a lot easier and some clusters will give you that flexibility.
You just won the lotto and you have your boss on the line. What's the first thing that you would say?
"Check your Blackberry..."
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