-
10 Questions with ... Colleen Wilson
July 10, 2007
Have an opinion? Add your comment below. -
NAME:Colleen WilsonTITLE:VP/Urban PromotionsCOMPANY:Universal Motown Records
Please outline your radio career so far.
Elektra Entertainment 1995-2004; Atlantic Records 2004-2006, Universal Motown 2006-Present
1) What was your first job? Early influences?
I had a summer job in Oakland, CA at a collections agency. Little did I know, I would soon be chasing delinquent adds and spins. My earliest influences were my mother, who taught me persistence, and my father, who taught me patience
2) What led you to a career in music?
I was led to a career in music by my love of travel and the appreciation of seeing a project go from an idea to a platinum record. I love being creative, going through a window when the door is locked.
3) Was there a defining moment, which made you realize "this is it"?
Sylvia Rhone's strong leadership skills are taking effect, Michael Horton's great relationship with the established artists, and our whole team's ability to break new artists.
4) What is your favorite format, and how do you feel about what you're currently doing?
I love music in general. Urban is my favorite format. How fortunate that I get to work it.
5) Where do you see the industry and yourself five years from now?
I see overall staff sizes smaller, both at radio an records. But I see the sound of urban music becoming more diverse. I see myself changing with the times.
6) What is your favorite type of radio station or format, and why?
I enjoy a lot of the current music. It's changing, but that is what life does.
7) What the most enjoyable part of your job?
I enjoy seeing who the various department fit together to complete the puzzle. I love the sound of a PD saying, "Yes, I can move that song to power." And I like the smile of an artist when they are told, "Your song is #1."
8) Motown Universal has had a lot of success lately, how do you account for this?
Universal Motown has made a big contribution lately with Lloyd, Akon, Tank, Shop Boyz and Marques Houston; Swizz Beatz, Kia, Shine, Mya, Ja Rule and Ali & Gipp are at, or close to, bat now. The heavy hitters, Nelly, Lil Wayne, Chamillionaire and David Banner, are just about to hit more home runs.
9) How do you feel about radio programmers still wanting to wait for the results of callout research before they would be willing to add a record they already hear and like?
Radio must be careful not to play songs that would cause them to lose listeners, but they must also remember that they can lose listeners by not staying fresh. Winners take calculated risks.
10) Is there such a thing a disposable artist?
Yes, from a business standpoint. But it bothers my naturally strong sense of fairness because no person is better than another. Then, again, radio and record company employees are just as disposable from a business standpoint, of course.
Bonus Questions
What would people who think they know Colleen Wilson be surprised to find out?
That I laugh more than most people and that I am unable to hold a grudge.
-
-