All I can say is "Where there's Smoke There's Fire". Maybe Astral will flip CJAY..lol After all they're getting pretty good at flipping successful stations. (Ottawa/Edmonton) ;D
Taking a look at the playlist for Up 97.7. Every announcer on staff was born at LEAST 30 years after any song on the list was recorded. They are doomed. Again, they refuse to pay for seasoned, relatable talent and are going with kids right out of school. BTW kids...it's...uhh... "Bone-eee" M not "Bah-nie" M. Hey Up-your playlist screams adult audience...why is your mid-day guy wearing his baseball cap sideways?
Wow! Digging deeper into Up 977 music, website and announcers. I would have expected more thought on planning and branding from a Calgary station. You may want to re-think that website entirely. http://www.up977.com/ Day time line-up pretty much a "sausage fest". Are there no talented FEMALE broadcasters in Calgary?
97.7 Up. Calgary's Feel Good Station? Why does your mid-day guy look like he's gonna SHOOT me? Or as I'm sure his lexicon would read "Gonna put a CAP your ass"!!!
Re-launch of 97.7 as Up FM "Calgary's Feel Good Station". Here's WHY this is bad. A poorly thought out, poorly executed launch of a radio station that listeners will not understand is BAD for RADIO. Listeners will not say "this is a bad radio station"...they say "radio SUCKS these days". Can't imagine what clients will think! THAT is bad for our industry. PLEASE go back and re-think this, for the sake of Calgary Radio and Radio in general. Listeners who even KNOW who "The Supremes" ARE...don't know what Twitter IS. DUMB, dumb, dumb!
As a pre-emptive strike, before ya' all' start with "Hey Radio Veteran, are you suggesting that Up 977 ignore Social Media?" No, I am not. That would be stupid! What I am suggesting is: They put a little more THOUGHT into it!! If you are going to launch a station that appeals to a 35+ demo, at least that is what appears to be the target demo after taking a look at the music list, you can't blast social media up front on your website and expect that the listeners KNOW what it is and HOW to use and access it. If you are going after adults and want to incorporate SM: How about a "Social Media Boot Camp" for new listeners coming on board? SHOW them how to use it, give away some iphones, throw a little party and watch the "Twitterverse" grow!
They're doing OK up the road in Edm. We'll see in a few months.
Yes they are, but the on air lineup in Edmonton speaks to the audience they're after (you can see that just by looking at the pictures on the website.) Calgary's lineup looks to be something you'd find on an urban/CHR station, not a hockey mom skewing AC station. Just wonderin' how they'll relate to the music and/or audience.
Up does do very well in Edmonton. But I was convinced that this flip was going to be Now 2.0, and I still think that would have been a better choice for Calgary.
Like everybody else here, I’m dumbfounded by the on-air talent. Up in Edmonton is “feel good, family friendly”. Pheonix, Beasley and Sue would be perfect for that format. Not a bunch of young guys who I don’t think can relate to the music or the target audience. Take a look at the roster in Edmonton and the roster in Calgary and you’ll notice a huge difference.
You know Swansong, I really am a positive guy. It just saddens me that a bunch of people who SHOULD know better, can mess up a station so bad. It really embarrasses us as an industry.
I monitored UP 97.7 this morning. At 9:45 they played the stupid stereo mix of "Satisfaction" that is sometimes found in music library services. Here's the problem in a practical sense. Not one person in that station understands what I just said or knows why this is BAD!
I'm not sure a move from a secure market such as Kelowna to a PPM obsessed market like Calgary is a wise move... But they obviously have thought it all through. Just hope they have solid contracts. But it's radio... s**t happens
Radio veteran I agree with most of what you are saying regarding the station, it's format, lack of females etc but I will disagree on one point. A couple of the new staff have experience. They are not out of school. Tripp was in either Toronto or Ottawa then at energy in Calgary. Grant I believe was doing a morning show in med hat. The midday guy was at sun fm in Kelowna...drive guy I have no idea. But I would say most of them are in their 30's and have been in the biz for at least ten years. Now I know that's still somewhat fresh to guys like you but it is experience. And eventually you gotta give the newer people a chance instead or recycling the old guys over and over so that we can have fresh guys with experience. Just because you may not know them doesn't make them unexperienced. Just like I have over ten years in the biz but you probably don't know me cause I havent had my big break yet. I have worked in a major market but just haven't had the chance to shine YET. And I'm by no means a newbie. I have been around a few stations in different markets and formats. I'm married with children and am still clawing to make it because those "seasoned broadcasters keep getting recycled and there is no room for this up coming talent quite yet.
AB GAl: If I may suggest, a vocabulary would be a good start for you. If you continue to use non words like unexperienced your chance "to shine" or get your "big break" as you put it, will never happen. In fact, you have just made my point. There is more to putting together a successful a morning show in Calgary than JUST putting in time. Ask Dimonte or Forbes. It takes years of hard work at diction, annunciation, VOCABULARY, mic technique, a million other things and most important: How to behave in public. To wit: The Promo shot of UP 977's new mid-day guy is is absolutely the wrong one. He looks like he should be selling me crack, instead of relating to an adult female demo. Clearly, nobody there knows how to present their station or staff in public either. I work with young talent ALL the time, some even claim to have experience. They don't. This is where I start them. I talk to jocks every day who have been in the business for a while (some even 10 years) and have no concept at all of what it takes to be a "professional communicator." AB GAL, the good news is I can help. If you would like to send me an aircheck, I can get you back on the right track and give you some proper direction that clearly you are not getting where you are now. Let me know if you would like to make the smartest decision of your career. Young lady, you would be wise to seek guidance and counsel from some of those "recycled old guys".
Radio Veteran - for the most part you are correct. And although I feel your pain with this woman (I too cringed at her use of 'unexperienced') she makes a point. I am both female and a radio veteran having been in the industry for for 23 years in BC and Alberta. I know I'm one of the lucky ones, but let's face it, there are a lot of Calgary morning men that will probably retire in the next 3 to 5 years and just where IS the bench? Forbes, Dimonte, Don Stevens, hell even Doug Veronelly at Country are all getting a little long in the tooth. We have a LOT of aging morning men in the city. Having said that, as far as the new 'UP' goes, we listened on Saturday for about 4 hours and Radio Veteran is absolutely right. They've hired the wrong jocks. Marketing 101 would dictate the midday guy needs to lose his gangsta look. I am also a soccer mom outside of radio and think their choice of jocks is a big mistake, but have to say the format is pretty good. The even bigger question though is why would they get rid of a radio veteran (and helluva nice guy) like Beesley? He would have have been great with this format.
Mediawatcher. Great comment, but I think you are missing my point. I am not suggesting that we keep morning men around just because of tenure. The problem, as I see it, is the talent (general sense) that is waiting for these guys to retire, is doing just that, WAITING. They are unable (lack of proper direction) or are unwilling to do the required work to be able to properly fill these positions. I am hearing somewhat of a sense of entitlement and that attitude is, trust me, worthless.
I'm finding that even UP in Edmonton with their so called "seasoned announcers" are trying too hard to be personalities. It's getting to the point where I have a difficult time listening to what's between the tunes. I never thought I would be the type of listener that would drift towards online stations with very little or no jock talk.
Wow radio veteran. I did say I Agreed with you on most of the points you made. I just disagreed with one. I typed one wrong word in my hurry to comment..and you basically attack me. I wasn't trying to say I knew better or that you were in anyway being some kind of jerk with your opinion, just that I disagreed with the point that this crew had just gotten out of school. I am not on here for the drama that seems to come from some of these posts. I just wanted to state my opinion right or wrong as it may be. I'm not here to attack anyone for their opinions. Honestly if you had feedback for me on my career, I would gladly accept it. I am by no means perfect and don't claim to be. I was also trying to make sure everyone had the correct information on the new jocks at Up. Not just the information based on someone's opinion.
AB GAL: Attack you? Could you BE more ungrateful. Please GROW up! I just did you the biggest favor ever by telling you the truth, for the first time in your career, about how you can improve your act and you slam ME! THAT is why you are not happy!
bigbangboom: I am not happy with the nonsensical attempt at branding and stupid staff choices that UP 97.7 has made. Again, my point is, how can we prove to our clients and listeners that radio is still a relevant option in today's new media buffet, when they completely butcher the launch of what I'm sure was supposed to be one of their flagships? "I'm mad as hell...and I'm not going to take it anymore". THIS is bad for RADIO. RADIO should be outraged!
I , the same can't be said for Capital where there's a bunch of old timers talking about the weather.
The bunch of oldtimers you make reference to are communicating like regular human beings to a demographic that has a lot of money to spend and is not interested in texting in some inane pop culture reference of the day.
Red Deer is kind of like thesaint77 avatar......pointing at a brown spot.
For those who aspire to mediocrity...Red Deer is the place to be.
For all others, be fore-warned....please put your forefingers in a cross and hold 6 inches in front of your face for all others to see....Red Deer is not where you want to be.
PS> shouldn't you know that from the laffable ads they post in the trades??
Red Deer is a wonderful town with a GREAT sense of community. It would make a great stop, for a young talent 2 years on the air. A great NEXT move towards the majors. Not quite sure what you are on about there KD
thesaint77. Please, stop whining. If you knew anything at all about coaching talent, you would know I was hard on AB Gal for a reason. Please go back and read her posts. She has a TERRIBLE command of the English language yet demands that she be considered for a major market morning show. If she were smart and took me up on my offer of mentoring, it would not be long before she was thanking me for being tough with her by telling her the truth AND providing practical exercises to get her where she wants to be.
"If she was smart and took me up on my offer of mentoring, it would not be long before she was thanking me for being tough with her by telling her the truth and providing practical exercises to get her where she wants to be."
Well, there you have it, kids. While the provincial governments continue to sign off on student loans you'll never be able to repay in today's radio world, you get a free lesson right here: All you need is Puget Sound Radio, and Alias, and a hankering to 'private message' someone. Incredibly simple. ;)
Question, all of the above points have been 'observed': having said that, why would ANY thinking young person get into the business, if this is the kind of vitriol he/she can expect down the road? LIGHTEN UP, people! Have a better week than your weekEND! OMG, this is all sad.
I don't know any second city trained PD's. I didn't know Second City was teaching radio now. Since your original point was how bad Up 97.7 is, who would you have hired? Whats your lineup?
BarkerFan. I too am a fan of Bruce. I'm having a GREAT weekend. I feel like Superman exposing the poseurs and hacks. I've been getting tons of PMs telling me that for once, somebody is providing HOPE to young broadcasters, by reinforcing that with hard work and commitment NOT a sense of entitlement, you WILL succeed.
My dear friend dudeslay. Second City does not teach radio. Second City teaches or rather taught, improvisational comedy and skills sets. How much easier is it for me, do you think, as a PD to put together a successful multi person morning show with that knowledge? Sorry, no lineup recommendations, in fact any more from me about UP 977 and I'm gonna have to send Rawlco a bill:)
"And", said another old veteran, "I agree". I agree with positive feedback and all! Let's set aside the spelling, sentence structure, syntax and all the rest of it (remembering of course we 'write for the ear') and KEEP it positive and constructive. Once again, have a good week! ;)
BarkerFan. I must disagree. Spelling, syntax, grammar etc. are key ingredients that need to be mastered in order to become a professional VERBAL communicator. It takes constant attention and vigilance. Writing is so much a part of what we do as verbal communicators. How can you suggest that we not pay attention to this? If your writing skills are poor, I can pretty much guarantee that your oral presentation will be poor as well.
Thanks to those people who had something to say on my behalf! I appreciate it. I will only respond by saying that I was trying to state an opinion and I don't believe I ever commented in a negative way. To be clear, radio veteran I never stated I wanted a major market morning gig. I also did say I would welcome your advice. I believe that meant I would take you up on your offer. I also never said I expected I wouldn't have to work hard to get my break. I have been in a major market, just not in the desired shift. If you actually knew me, you would know I do work very hard and always am willing to take on more than expected to get where I want to be. I am a grown up, I am no in my 40's or 50's as you may be but I'm also not 20 and just out of school. I did nothing but state an opinion and try to do it in a positive way. You are the one who takes the one comment that could have been construed in a negative way and uses it as exactly that for your personal attacks. It seems to me that you may be an angry or bitter person. That is the only negative/attacking comment I will make. I hope that because you are someone who is molding young minds, I am wrong it that assumption. I'm sorry I'm not quite as perfect as you. I can only hope that one day, I will be perfect enough to have the credibility needed to assume one spelling error means I can stomp all over someone I have never met. I apologize for trying to have a point of view that differs from your own. I did agree with you on all but one point and I will apologize for speaking about it, as clearly this is not allowed and upset you greatly.
I wish people would stop discrediting the young(er) people trying to make their way up into the majors. While some clearly don't belong there, my travels have shown an absolute reluctance by many PDs in smaller markets to help get these younger jocks ready to rock and roll. The one comment made reference to a PD who clearly didn't care. I've seen those types of situations happen more often than not. Just myself personally, I received zero airchecks until going to major market folks and asking for feedback from them. The excuses I've heard about not getting those airchecks in smaller markets ranged from the PD having to handle six other stations in the cluster to a PD who was also doing an on-air shift and sales. The guidance is simply not there. I lucked out in finding someone who was finally willing to take me under their wing. Not many are like that though. Just some thoughts.
This thread is unbelievable. RV comes off as such a douche it's a wonder he doesn't already work for Rawlco. They seem like a perfect match. I'm so confused and don't know who to cheer for.
Geez I thought my posts stirred the pot...The only grammar that drives me nuts is when the word "seen" is used in place of "saw", as in "I seen a great movie last night"...hate it. My rule of thumb has always been, never talk down to your listeners. String your thoughts together and put them in a logical order.
Back to some of the original posts on this subject....Yes the jocks on UP seem to be a little young for the demo. I haven't had a chance to listen to the station yet so I will reserve any judgement on their ability to relate to their target demo. One thing I will say is that every station seems to think that their audience is just waiting for them to tweet or facebook them something and are constantly pushing stuff off to their website. I barely have time in my day for my actual friends on facebook and tweeting (to me) is something people with too much time on their hands use. The PD's are telling their jocks that they need to reference the websites at least once an hour. Build up the visits so we can sell space on our homepage. Less clutter on the air...blah..blah..blah. Have you noticed that most of the clutter on air these days is the damn jocks always talking about facebook, tweeting and pushing people to the station website?
Absolutley love a website where you can post YOUR thoughts and opinions, but don't post with YOUR name but rather with an alias....I'm not here to have a personal attack on anyone but do find it kind of cowardly to rip apart announcers, companies, formats and whatever under an alias. I am often entertained by this website and the arrogance of many but today for some reason i feel more annoyed than entertained. Seriously, if your close mindedness has you so sure your opinion is the only correct opinion and that you have all the answers to save radio and a station as a "radio veteran" then attach your name to your posting. I hope my english, spelling, grammar and sentence structure is GOODER enough that I don't get ripped for it................hmmmm i guess that does kinda come off as a personal attack, weird!
Second City .. teach[es] .. improvisational comedy and skills sets
And we ALL KNOW that Comedy these days has NO PLACE on the radio airwaves!! It's all about LINERS, people!! Plug the contest, backsell Duffy and turn in your time card. Stacking blankets at a homeless shelter is, at least, still an outlet for exercising SOME creativity in your vocation!
Wow. Morning guy on UP 97.7 sounds like he is 12. Listened for a couple of hours, not one mention of the Calgary community. Focus groups always say: "The announcers talk too much." What they REALLY mean is: The announcer is talking about things I don't care about. Lots of chatter about personal attacks and self righteous opinions. Hey, I didn't invent this stuff, I had a couple of great mentors who made me promise to "pass it on." The reality is, all of the things I've been writing about success and how to achieve it are real and factual, NOT my OPINION! There is no debate or discussion about it. Either you do the work or you are destined to mediocrity like so many here who can't or won't get it!
OK, Grandpa Simpson I certainly don't claim anywhere to your expertise but the with their playlist and upbeat imaging it seems like they're trying to sit between XL and Jack. XL's lineup is old but really strong... probably too strong and expensive to go head to head with in terms of matching name for name. Jack has no lineup after 9am so there's that.
Why not go young and enthusiastic? Maybe "communicator" imperfections are part of the charm, as good as their old lineup was, they had years to bring in the numbers and they couldn't do it. Not saying this is the answer but can't hurt to try.
PS. Maybe not local but I did hear a quick break where the jock took a call, was very polite and actually thanked her for the call and for listening. Sounded fine but what do I know, I'm just a listener, haha.
And we ALL KNOW that Comedy these days has NO PLACE on the radio airwaves!! It's all about LINERS, people!! Plug the contest, backsell Duffy and turn in your time card. Stacking blankets at a homeless shelter is, at least, still an outlet for exercising SOME creativity in your vocation!
LITTLERIC. What if you had a station that had major contest design, current liners and announcer backsells with relevant local information and content already built in? Hmmmm.
Thanks Radio Veteran - I was actually going to listen for a while online...now I don't need to waste my time. This seems to be a trend with this radio group and a few others. PD's and GM's with their heads stuck up their...well you know where. Cheap talent - wrong format..the list goes on and on. The UP station in Edmonton had at least the smarts to hire Charlie Morgan. Great on air and seasoned...and not bad too look at as well. Morning show is debatable. :K)
Not all soccer moms are 49, a lot of them are 34 and will be quite fond of the younger guys they having taking the air on this station.
What exactly are you trying to prove? Are you planning on posting some of your pay stubs to try to impress us? Here's the deal Radio Veteran; you've made a big enough ass of yourself on here that 96.4% of the readers are only doing so because they want to hate you more. Give it up.
Not all soccer moms are 49, a lot of them are 34 and will be quite fond of the younger guys they having taking the air on this station.
Another one with no communication skills. How can I take you seriously? I can't even understand what you are saying! *driving German car to cash HUGE paycheck*
How many Second City Improv trained PD's do you know?
Well, you're just bragging now! Any a**wipe can take improv 'classes'. Did you ever WORK for Second City? If you're such a great PD shouldn't you be working? If your skin was thicker than bible paper you wouldn't care what people say to you or about what some shitty station was doing with their branding. This has been a very entertaining read.
Blabbermouth. Work for Second City? I was too busy working on radio. However, unlike a lot of young talent these days, I recognized the relationship between improv work AND radio and how it could "move my career needle." So, I took the course and graduated and learned a ton of things I could teach you about teamwork and trust and creativity and where all that stems from.
What gave you the impression I care about what whiners like you think?
Notwithstanding, I am sincerely happy that you are entertained by my posts.
Radio Veteran, you say a lot of what Rawlco has done in Calgary is bad for radio. Yes, you're right. But attitudes like yours are also very bad.
Bad pay and poor treatment by management are just two of the reasons why so many young talented people leave the industry. Attitudes like yours are another. It's amazing how many poisonous atmospheres there are at stations across the country. Rather than talking down to everyone and slamming anyone who disagrees with you why not speak a little more positively?
Bragging about your past accomplishments isn't going to win you any friends and screams of insecurity.
Farley. I NEVER brag. What you are reading is SUPREME confidence and you could not be more wrong as to where I am coming from. My attitude is perfect. Maybe, you are shocked by hearing some painful truths that are perhaps resonating a little too close to home. I have a long list of young talent that I currently mentor, (a bunch I picked up this weekend from this thread), pro bono I might add (and I don't mean Sonny...BTW Kids at UP 997, he was married to Cher for a while.)
Farley, I have been fired by Gary Slaight more times than Ted Woloshyn, so the LAST thing I am is insecure:)
L&G: Perhaps it's time for 'Administrator' to step in so we can all dump our aliases, and attach our real names without any difficulty. Perhaps, just perhaps, it's time to move along from the negative s**t of this particular thread. It kind of makes older 'vets' look 'a little unhappy and cynical'. But then, I guess I am older. What did I say? ;)
UP 977. Just heard a fake paid for listener testimonial in the middle of some really LOOSE radio. Fake 20-ish Female listener: "I can't believe the music your are playing (over The Monkees 'I'm a Believer") I'm gonna tell ALL my friends that UP 977 is the BEST radio station on the PLANET." Jeeesh. Do I even NEED to explain this?
Now I remember what I said! Now I remember what I forgot to say. Now I remember the guy's name, which is Barry Simon. (Thanks for the movtivation to do the same, Barry!) Now I remember I too, have an 'aka'. Jim Yount. (one of those 'old vet' people.
Barkerfan. That would be silly. Administrator knows as well as I, that if you remove aliases, no-one would contribute. Simply for fear of retribution from petty people in radio. Petty people in radio you say, I think not. "The radio business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side." - Hunter S. Thompson.
As for unhappy and cynical. Nah. Me and my crew raised 16k on Tuesday alone for a local charity. What did you do on Tuesday?
Somebody earlier was asking about my thoughts on a proper day time line up for UP 977. I have been thinking about that. If I were the PD, I would hire Charlee Morgan as my Morning Star. Classy, professional broadcaster who brings it EVERYDAY with female skewing relatable content and Charlee really knows how to work a room as an ambassador for the station. She is probably doing too good a job where she is right now to be considered. BIG Mistake!
I have to say that my wife and I haven't laughed so hard in a long time since listening to this station's launch. As "retired" or err..."former"...major market radio pros....
She said. " Oh, no" I said. "Maybe the computer is broken. Or the consultant has a substance issue." She said. "Is this real? Is this a joke?" I said: " No these guys must have balls made of titanium to think this will work." She said: "You're too "old school" just because you worked at # 1's" I said: " Explain this mix. Sounds like 3 generations got their records mixed up." She said: " I'm not "FEELING GOOD." I said. "If you wanted to play this insane music mix, why wouldn't you have some pros behind the mic." She said: "Like you always say..at any given time 50% of the population is on some form of medication. Maybe "FEELING GOOD is important. Especially if you are stoned on Prozac...and someone says "FEEL GOOD." I said: " Yes but maybe they will just pump the cume for 2 books and whore it out to Rogers or Bell or any of the the other deep pocket over-bidders." She said: " Can they do that?" I said: "Always. When you can't win or don't even care to try....sell to a publicly traded company...they have lots of other people's money to build their ad clusters." She said: " I have to go to work." I said: " Me too but I will post on Puget Sound. Where's our new Robbie Robertson CD?"
You need steroid balls to think that no proven pro talent and this music mush has a chance to become a real radio station. Meatloaf wrote 2 outta 3 ain't bad. This format assumes 1 out of four is okay. Maybe. Astral transporting 30 years up and down with each song selection...quite the science experiment.
And now....the Bad Mix Mid-Day!
11:51AM She's A Lady Tom Jones
11:42AM Centerfold J. Geils Band
11:38AM Powerless (Say What You Want) Nelly Furtado
I think it's funny that you mention demographics and money. Shouldn't you be on a sales call? Or a golf course? Ask your pd/md/apd/om if you can work in programming for a week and get back to me.
You are way off track. Yikes1 is the one who gets it here. The relationship between programming and sales now, more than ever, must be cohesive and seamless. Gone are the days of the invisible wall between the two. Progressive PDs understand that the Sales Manager is their best friend and most trusted confidant. Not someone to be ridiculed as a "sales weasel" in the hallways like you seem to indicate. I regularly play golf with my sales manager and her clients. Why? Because I want to learn more about being a great sales person and she sure is THAT! It also helps me to be a better PD by understanding what she goes through on a regular basis, her challenges and how I can help her with said challenges from a programming standpoint. I also want to learn to be a better golfer from her! A rather anachronistic view there Nige'.
Ohhhh, God...pray for a thread that can be (a little bit) positive about the business. My Mother would say, "Dear, dear DEAR!". I think I am in agreement with her unspoken sentiment. Frank Sinatra to currnet is all cool...are YOU? 'Night, people! Jim Yount.
Listen, if your friend opened every conversation with....
"I am the best (insert BS) I/we have the best (insert BS) Dig me. I am (insert city name) ' s BEST, ONLY, LEGENDARY, FAVOURITE AT WORK, CLASSIC BLAH BLAH. (Insert City's Name) 's BEST (INSERT CHEEZY FORMAT DESCRIPTION)
You would not listen to that friend, would you?
You might recommend a good psychiatrist.
History leaves clues.
One of the legendary, truly INDUSTRY changing radio stations of all time (where I interned) used to put it this way..
"SERVING" 4 PROVINCES AND 28 STATES
Radio, meaning Audio (narrative verbal) communication is the same as a personal 1-1 conversation....which is usually effective when it is a conversation and shared experience discussion in the moment...but all I hear anymore is a freakin' PR job assault with no context and most often no minimal effort to communicate. Like a TV ad that is always too loud and always pisses you off while you were trying to enjoy the entertainment.
Stating the obvious is not negative.
So, sure, let's turn the thread around.
But please don't tell me that I need you to make me FEEL GOOD.
Based on the crap spewed here in the last few days I for 1 can state with confidence I would NEVER work for a PD with such a mega ego like RV. Hell, I have more years than he does in the biz & LOVE teaching & training. Working for someone who has to have the doors widened to triple size just to let "management" in tells more than anyone needs to know about him AND the company he works for.
Now to sit back & watch him attack moi! Should be fun....BRING IT!
I had an old screen name but forgot the password and the validation link is busted...
Anyways I just wanted to say my wife, who is in her mid 20's, loves this station from top to bottom. As an outsider to the radio industry I just thought I'd share a consumers opinion.
micgirl. Excellent creative satire. VERY VERY funny!
Just so I understand... they fired this wonderful, creative and funny Supermom, who has great chops, market heritage and recognition, laser beam skewing demographics and content AND is actually one of the listeners they are TRYING to attract. OK. That was a good decision.
Based on the crap spewed here in the last few days I for 1 can state with confidence I would NEVER work for a PD with such a mega ego like RV. Hell, I have more years than he does in the biz & LOVE teaching & training. Working for someone who has to have the doors widened to triple size just to let "management" in tells more than anyone needs to know about him AND the company he works for.
Now to sit back & watch him attack moi! Should be fun....BRING IT!
Radiowulf: Sir, you underestimate the size of my massive ego. I actually made them build me a whole new ROOM instead of just widening the doors!
I was debating whether or not to even respond here. The potential for comedy was too great.
Look, until you can provide some intelligent constructive argument to this debate, you remain, in our eyes, simply a spoiled child. Not unlike a 5 year old endlessly tugging at Daddy's coat-tail in an ever losing bid to gain his attention. Stop whining, use your brain and say something, ANYTHING, that resembles an intelligent, thought out, meaningful point about radio.
Congrats to XL 103 for pushing into #1 Look how tight the market is. Look at 97.7 (CIGY)....is there any question they felt they had to make a change? Going down like Leo in Titanic....(cue Celine Dion) Lots of people sampling...and no sign of loyalty...time for a change! But making change after change after change is probably what got them so deep in the basement...proven by the gains made by so many others. It's all "UP" from here....because you can't do worse. And I don't think it was the talent that was responsible. I never did see or hear any outside promo for Sue, Beas or Allison.
Good thread folks. Game is certainly on in Calgary.
Man, I feel for Ara....locked in that windowless room for 6 hours with a cam streaming his every move. This might be a human rights violation. Genius idea...what a great way to let the performers relax and focus. He has to leave the room to have a scratch....pop a soda or wolf down a snack. Every now and then someone else roams through....waving hands...I love the dress code! If management insists on streaming the studio to the world, they should at least buck up for a clothing allowance.
No "magic" allowed in radio anymore?
And that computer really knows how to MIX it UP. :-/
Biffman: You are so correct. I don't allow cameras in my control rooms at all. All us "Old Timers" understand implicitly, that we can't do what we do on the air, that is to say, create the proper listening environment or experience for our listeners, if they are watching us. How can you ever create "Theatre of the Mind" or mental impressions with listeners? I insist with All my jocks that every piece of content be written, edited, produced and rehearsed before it goes to air. In that all is prepared in advance, it makes for pretty dull VIEWING with a guy sitting there pushing buttons. However, when done properly it creates a great listening experience. Amen to Biffman
I just always remember one Saturday morning in Montreal. The news and jock studios were side by side with a window between them. Guess it had been a long late night for the jock. (Legendary guy whose name must remain protected)
He did his last break....into the last record before the news...tossed off his headphones.... He turned white and puked into the waste basket.
That would have made great TV?
Now, the day the traffic lady decided to press her ample bare chest against the window to try and break me up....well....that's another story.
Wow! Sour grapes, eh? Radio veterans of all people should know getting "let go" is part of the gig.
Geez Ken, thanks for the newsflash. I am sure this Ara dude is just great and all, never heard him so can't judge. Now in defence of Sue, she's just havin' a little fun as she wrote on her video. You guys who "fire" need to get a bit of a thicker skin. Don't expect to get bouquets after you fire a bunch of people , they tend to be, how should we say, "peeved" a little and may vent in different ways.
By the way, I must agree, all these young guys must be totally stoked playing Abba, Huey Lewis and Aretha Franklin's "Respect". I am certain you wouldn't find much of that kind of music on their personal ipods.
Geez Ken, thanks for the newsflash. I am sure this Ara dude is just great and all, never heard him so can't judge. Now in defence of Sue, she's just havin' a little fun as she wrote on her video. You guys who "fire" need to get a bit of a thicker skin. Don't expect to get bouquets after you fire a bunch of people , they tend to be, how should we say, "peeved" a little and may vent in different ways.
By the way, I must agree, all these young guys must be totally stoked playing Abba, Huey Lewis and Aretha Franklin's "Respect". I am certain you wouldn't find much of that kind of music on their personal ipods.
OK Radio Veteran. We get it. You don't like what Rawlco's done with this station. I'm not denying the points you've made. But to continually flog that point is getting a little ridiculous. Do you have anything constructive to say?
First, figure out who your potential audience is and more important, where it is going to come from. There are a limited number of listeners in the pool. Sure you may re-patriate some inactive radio users with a good format, but the reality is, you will have to steal them from someone else. You better know who! This assumes that a proper market survey or analysis has been done. If not, might I suggest my friend and mentor Jeff Vidler. You can reach him at http://ca.linkedin.com/in/jeffvidler/.
Then, listen to his suggestions.
Suggestions that may include but are not restricted to:
A demographically skewed music list that is properly presented to include era, artist and tempo transitions.
Talent that is experienced and suited to the format.
Content that is relevant to the audience on a social and community based level.
Get rid of the 45 second imaging pieces that will eat you alive in a PPM world.
DO NOT mix your imaging VOICES (do you really need two?) with jingles. DO NOT then drop that mess in the middle of announcer intros.
Brand all this PROPERLY and then hit the streets. If there are more than 100 Calgarians gathered together at one place at the same time, I want my station to BE there and active.
It's true. I have a badge and all. It's shiny and says "Fun Police" right on it. ;D
I won't lie. I've actually agreed with pretty much all you've said during these eight pages of ramblings. It just felt like we were all talking in circles and was hoping there'd be a point to the ramblings at some time.
Let me play devil's advocate on a couple of your points.
1. Do you really need talent that is "experienced". I use that term really loosely. I haven't listened to the guys on UP, but what happens if these guys become that "breath of fresh air" some people might actually be looking for. I seem to remember a group over at Vibe that didn't really have the strongest numbers to start. The audience grew with that crew and eventually the station became quite well-recognized in the market right before everyone and their dog launched a similar-sounding station. My point is: it seems some of these guys have a few years under their belts in smaller markets. Maybe they'll do well. Maybe they'll falter. But is it fair to discredit them before they even hit the air?
2. A demographically-skewed music list. Is there such a thing that isn't already being done in Calgary? These stations are fighting over a 5-share and when they don't get it they flip formats. It's beyond the point of ridiculous. These guys are in a no-win in my mind. They'd have to skim back their music selection to the point where they have 200 songs in rotation and everyone gets sick of them because they overplay everything. Add more songs and it's not a skewed-enough list.
As far as getting "out in the community", you mean to tell me that a few new bus bench ads isn't enough? Come on now! :P
I would hire all of you! This thread is highly entertaining. Radio Veteran you remind me of my 4 year old - no filter - Priceless! On a side note in regards to the "Actual Topic" it's a flip - like it - hate it - it's a flip and now we all just get to sit back and watch the TRAIN WRECK!
Spinster: You read me wrong. What you see as, how did you put it, "Priceless"? - is actually a never ending quest for broadcast excellence and a refusal to suffer hacks and radio recreationists.
Well RV you read me wrong... by "Priceless" I really mean "PRICELESS" More people should "SAY IT THE WAY IT IS" but we have become a society based on "Sparing feelings" all too often. I know many people in the biz that should of got their ASS kicked a long time ago - but haven't because someone didn't have the balls to do it.
Info Collector: I must be brief. I have a morning show to finish preparing and then BED! You sound like you UNDERSTAND that emotion.
1. Given that the desired audience is Female 35+ (only an assumption as even I am confused by the list) you MUST - from an announcer's perspective - START with an understanding of really WHO your listener is. Gansta' Boy does not understand! As evidenced by his promo shot and video leak - now removed. Hilarious!! That listener info should have been made clear to him long before he ever turned on the mic full of stokes and amps and jizzes. Crazy!!
Info, sounds like you have been around, seriously - how can you build from that? And how could they let that happen in the first place? You really should have a listen.
2. Music. Sure it's tough to find the sweet spot. Try programming music in Detroit. But you can't just throw a whole upchuck of music on the air and expect the listener to understand it. Again, a market survey, some music testing( I can hear the laughter from here. Hey, are you serious or not?)
I have not done a monitor of other Calgary stations in a while. I will. Then get back to you with more music thoughts.
Spinster. Thanks. It really frustrates me how young talent expects to be coddled and stroked into success . I suspect some of that attitude is generational. However, we can't keep going this way. SOMEBODY has to correct this HUGE issue facing RADIO. I hear Pandora has written algorithms that will allow it's existing internet service to provide local news, sports and weather information to specific, individual communities and has begun to hire staff to seed those positions. Oh - Oh!
It really frustrates me how young talent expects to be coddled and stroked into success
BINGO - coddling is not good...it raises spoiled brats that think the world owes them. The world OWES no one anything - it must be earned by hard work and constant self improvement.
I was fortunate to grow into a major market with Clarence Mack and Jim Kunkle, Lorne Ball was the morning man and kind of took me under his wing. He didn't dwell on linguists, but DID tell me a lot of incidental stuff which remains with me today...even if he didn't know it. These dudes were not negative, they helped me go to Vancouver. They helped me go to Radio Netherlands, even if they don't know it. I am still inspired by them today. They were NOT NEGATIVE. They hired a young guy, who was nurtured long - with positive feedback and the excitment of radio - who I guess, got somewhere. Geat business, sometimes filled with bullshit, but if you love it, you can put up with the naysayers. Hit the post! I am gonna be the fifth of the Four Tops! What does HIT THE POST mean? CJIB forever, and the Couresty Motors Parade of Hits. Radio is HOT and can be fun, F**K the computers, it'll all come back! Cheers, Jim Yount.
Info collector who were the dj's on Vibe? I'd like to take a look and see where they are now.
I had to research this one because I honestly couldn't remember (nor did I listen as it wasn't my cup o' tea). It would appear "Boss" Chad Martin was doing mornings off the top, with "DJ Drew Atlas" doing middays and Mastermind doing afternoons. At least according to this article:
As for my friend RV, thank you for the kind remarks. I haven't done mornings in a few years now (thank goodness). Believe it or not, I haven't been around the block for too long. Just put myself into situations where I could learn a lot about the industry and now sit in a very good spot.
Knowing the past of one of the jocks at UP, I'd be honestly surprised if they didn't know what they were walking into. By the sounds of that Ara video, they was basically in "hiding" for a while and couldn't say anything. That tells me they had plenty of time to get prepared for the big launch. I agree, perception is everything, and they didn't get off on the right foot if they are going after the "soccer moms". So they have some work ahead of them if they want to put their stamp on this city. I'd be willing to give the jocks the benefit of the doubt. It does almost sound like they were put between a rock and a hard place in that they were being offered a major market gig, but with no real tools to be fully prepared. I'll have to give it a listen though.
I think I understand the thinking of Rawlco with the music. I once had a consultant tell me that the only way to battle iPods and online stations is to program your music like an iPod or online station. And let's face it, most iPods are a mish-mash of everything. The idea of "upbeat music" makes sense in theory, whether it actually makes sense on the radio or not is a completely different thing.
Just out of curiousity, does UP do news? I have a feeling the answer is no but figured I'd ask.
And just to address the whole "young ones" feeling like they are owed the world. While I admit my tenure in radio hasn't been that long, I remember a college teacher telling us that it'd take at least five years to get into a major market. It quickly knocked a bunch of us down a notch as we had egos the size of the room. But now some are getting jobs straight out of college. I don't necessarily blame the "talent" for not getting that quick stroke of reality when they have to do a year in GP, a couple of years in Medicine Hat, maybe two in Lethbridge then up to Calgary or Edmonton (if you're not forced out of province after any of those spots).
Alright. I've rambled long enough. Just some thoughts as we all look towards staring at the back of our eyelids ::)
Oh yeah, then was my old friend Don Warner, circa the 50's, who had a helluva voice, terrible voice, but the people loved him. God, dunno why, Would it be he was a communicator? He didn't have liners, no instructions from the PD, just did his thing. "940 Radio, this is CJIB".
And then, there were dudes like Dennis McVarish, Ken McReath, Dale O'Hara, Bob Arnold, Carbury, Jimmy Hughes, Corey, who were GREAT to young guys. Line up to offer your expertise, please. The guy who gave me my break was Gil Seabrook. The tight old f**k paid me a buck an hour but he knew I was in love with radio. So was she. I admire him to this day. Jim Yount.
Heard a newscast at 8 a.m. this morning read by Kath Thompson, the station's program director.
Caught a bit of the Tripp Anthony show. Tripp may want to talk to Jim Yount about "hitting the post" as he managed to botch a few inserts which proclaimed the arrival of "his great show on Calgary's new, fun, fabulous station." He did at least try his best to fade the inserts out as quickly as he could before the song vocals began. Still sounded pretty bush.
Also got to watch Kev Woods, yesterday evening, and another fellow replace a broken mic on the station's web cam. Seems Kev was a little too aggressive adjusting it before a break and snapped the mic from the mic's studio arm. He ended up doing his break with mic in hand until he and the other guy who couldn't seem to separate himself from his cell phone swapped the broken one with one of the other studio microphones.
Kev's show seemed to consist of about two 10 second breaks per hour involving little more than saying "hey, we're new," "we're a lot of fun" and the brilliant close of his show involved wondering aloud if Chilliwack the band had anything to do with Chilliwack, BC. Welcome to Canada, Kev.
Radio talent is always a hit and miss situation when you throw out proven track records and experience. I have worked with people that some say are great talents...my opinion of them is...well...not so much. Kind of like "beauty in the eye of the beholder". I listened to the drive show on UP yesterday and heard Kev. Welcome to the colonies Keven. Seems he has spent his days back in jolly old England and has brought all of the regionalism's with him. As someone who is familiar with that, I have no problem understanding what he is saying or referring to. Someone who doesn't might not get it. Remember Kevin - the daily grind in Canada is the ritual of getting up and going to work and not getting up and getting it on..hope you enjoy the warm Calgary summers in your boardies. One last note: Kev don't be a Kev.
Just for the record. I think radio lost a lot of the magic when they pulled the cart machines out of the control rooms. I remember firing off a drop in at the drop of a hat in the 80's. Now you have to search through a data base forever to come up with anything. When you do find it, you can only use one at a time because the station only gives you one computer in the control room.
I am confused over this discussion of "Soccer Moms" as a target audience. Where did this originate?
The way I see it, if the target is to be 30 and 40- something women (and men who like AC)..then the market is spoken for and I do not suspect it can be cracked.
Note CHFM...re-branded as Lite 95.9 Sure they lost a small city worth of listeners when Don and Joanne moved to XL..but they made a very nice adjustment and are holding strong with a 7 share and very solid reach and quarters and frankly the new sound is just superb, in my humble opinion. They have articulate adult women on the air! They play current top female artists alongside of great songs from some of the new breed bands. Jeez, they just played Kid Rock for a pace change. They are listenable for longer periods (even for an old guy like me) They have style, class, flow, great production values and the listener can actually BREATHE. Did I mention, they also have a 20 year legacy in the space?
Note VIRGIN (formerly VIBE) Ryan Seacrest from 10-2pm with a very strong hit music mix. I don't listen myself, but a lot of folks do. Nice energy over there for the younger adults who also have little kids and jobs.
And then there's JACK....competitive since they signed on and sitting comfortably with an 8 share.
If I missed any others....sorry.
So where exactly does "UP" intend to fit? Anyone? If it was a stock, I'd be tempted to short it (unless I knew there was a sale in the future) :-/
I hear a lot a chatter about major markets from people that claim to have "Major Market" experience or are currently working in "The Majors". Unless you have handled a daytime shift in Toronto, Montreal or Vancouver, you DO NOT have major market experience. Calgary and Edmonton do not qualify. Crickey, (for Kev) - I had a kid from Kelowna tell me the other day he was workin' "The Show". Yikes. Ask Terry Dimonte or Gerry Forbes, both of whom have ACTUALLY worked "The Show" about the level of competition there.
A small disagreement, my new friend. Today, Edmonton and Calgary are major markets by the number of signals in the race and certainly by revenues. I even feel Ottawa is a major now...with 35 signals or something lunatic like that. Perhaps we should re-define by saying someone worked at a "winning" station in a market over 1 million. No Charlie Sheen inference intended.
It is ABSOLUTELY unacceptable for a "Calgary Morning Man" to walk over the vocal post of a song. Again, listeners dont' say "This radio station sucks" they say "I'm switching to Pandora"
Hey Biffman: As always, I intend no offence to anybody working in the markets you refer to as "Major." I hear you with regards to population and signal density. My point, and my opinion only, is that to truly understand the competitive edge required to win you NEED to have sat in the "Hot Seat". Let's be honest, Toronto is where the "cream" rises to. I know there are good readers out there who have started in small markets, moved to "mediums" like Calgary or Edmonton or Ottawa and THEN moved to Toronto or Montreal or Vancouver. At least that's how us "Old Timers" understand the game to be. It's like - Off Broadway is great, but Hollywood is da bomb! Wow... I'm almost starting to sound like "Gangsta Boy"
Point accepted. I did that gypsy travelogue myself and made the Fault Sheet more often than I care to remember. However, when I screwed something up, a seasoned mentor would be with me quickly to help correct the issue in a positive, supportive way. Along the road, I had ample opportunity to do the same with younger folks because we felt that we hired people for their potential and it was our responsibility to grow that potential. In the "old daze," if the staff sucked and the product was not acceptable, the PD or ND was replaced. What a concept.
one: every time I heard Ara on Sun he was great. Tight... he can learn the music *if* the station has someone to teach him. I generally enjoy Sun every time I roll through Kelowna.
two: accents win championships... Kev will learn Canada... Canada will learn Kev.
one: every time I heard Ara on Sun he was great. Tight... he can learn the music *if* the station has someone to teach him. I generally enjoy Sun every time I roll through Kelowna.
two: accents win championships... Kev will learn Canada... Canada will learn Kev.
Flame: Clearly you have a smart radio brain. I know from this and previous posts.
Permit me to respond:
Look, I'm sure Ara is a decent guy and all but here we go again. He has no "chops" as we say. Trust me "chops" is a HUGE word! I'm sure, to some, this will sound condescending. It is not. The first thing Ara and other young broadcasters need to do is - read a book- then read some more books, then never stop reading books. Here's why in a useful, practical kind of way. Reading books (real ones or on a Kindle) will widen your vocabulary (providing that every word that you are unfamiliar with, when you come upon it, be looked up in a dictionary) Yes dictionary! I have one beside me right now - and - a Thesaurus, because even I, am still perfecting the linguistic arts. A wide vocabulary will permit you to begin working on written and later, verbal editing skills. When we talk about "tight talk breaks" we mean: Well thought out and edited pieces that EASILY convey your point to your listener. Simply put: a GREAT vocabulary enables you - as a "professional communicator" - to choose the ONE word that replaces the SIX words, you just used in your last break. Are you following me here? HUGE Vocabulary, GOOD - no books, BAD. How to do tight, succinct, verbally focused breaks can be found in books
As I began, THIS is the STARTING point, not the - I have fallen into a Calgary gig and I hope I survive point.
Next: Kev, Kev, Kev. Please listen to me. Now more than ever in radio, you need to be local. Even in Calgary. There is not one bit of entertainment news you can relay to your audience that they don't already know. The second any news breaks, listeners get iPhone pinged. When you get to it on your program, most of your listeners have already FORGOTTEN about it. They already know about Lady Gaga's new penile shaped mole.
Here's what you CAN give them that's demo, social and locally focused and FRESH!
I'd even contact them and get one of the Slow-pitch ladies on the air. That would be GREAT radio
It is simply essential to learn everything you can (RIGHT NOW) about Calgary and it's unique and personal makeup and character. This should have been done long before you sat down behind a "HOT" Calgary mic.
I don't care about the accent. I care about you knowing what country you are in.
Have not heard Kev, so can't comment on HIM. However, have heard accents and they really don't matter. It's the words that matter. i.e. Sun FM Duncan. Brutal. When I heard about the earthquake in CHINA I almost drove off the road.
Ara is a talented personality with a track record of winning with soccer moms.
Go back and look at his promo shot and web site photo. In that he has not already changed them, he clearly does not even know what a "Soccer Mom" IS, let alone how to relate to one. Jeeeesh! People...PLEASE!!!
Radio Vet, how many work days do you think you've wasted being angry and demolishing people's self esteem on this thread? Please get back to creating this "radio" you want listeners to stay connected to.
Well if this thread is any indication, there's probably more people taking notice of this station than one might think. Doesn't mean they will stick around for good as listeners....
it might not work, then again maybe it will. who knows?
Radio Vet, how many work days do you think you've wasted being angry and demolishing people's self esteem on this thread? Please get back to creating this "radio" you want listeners to stay connected to.
If a bunch of posts from me that ARE the "truth" about how to succeed in radio are in fact doing what you suggest then, as unfortunate as that may be - the people to whom that has happened to - should not BE in radio or in the entertainment industry in the first place. Trust me, they are wasting everyone's time including their own. Different, please stop wasting mine!
Radio Veteran, are you on coaine? If not, I think you're great! Totally agree with what you're saying. YOU JUST SEEM LIKE YOU SHOULD BE TYPING IT ALL IN UPPER CASE! Or am I mistaking passion for anger? Or should it be anger for passion? I'm sure you'll let me know.
Anyways...I'm the target for this station (sans children), but there are just too many "rookie mistakes" in terms of branding and on-air talet.
Also, can't STAND the accents! Virgin lost me to one and now UP! No offence to the guys, but that's my preference and like it or not, people listen based on their personal preferences.
Nice to have a friend who "gets it" as the jealous wolves begin to circle.
Cocaine, nah - that was the 80's. Now, my body and mind are my Temple. What you are reading is BOTH passion and anger. Passion to properly get my message out about what it REALLY takes to achieve radio success and to be a "professional communicator" and frustrated that so many readers here refuse to get on board because of petty jealousy or well, just because they are not that smart. Instead, they say I'm crushing self-esteem and being MEAN!
There is NO crying in Radio.
I am also angry that right before our eyes a radio station frequency is being teated like a commodity, akin to um, I don't know, how about Pork Bellies? Jim Sward, another mentor, taught me that a radio station licence is a "cherished" thing. From the start it needs to be treated with respect and energy and commitment to make it the best it can possibly be. You say naive: I am witness to what a great radio station can do and the amazing impact it can have on the community it serves. That's right SERVES. Not TAKES from.
Hard Worker, I am angry because they are treating 977 like "bacon"
Excuse me but even the rookie "kids" have to start somewhere - I'd like to get my break into radio .. someday.. :P
I am assuming that you don't have audio of yourself for anyone to critique. PM me and I will explain how to go about getting into an internship somewhere.
I hereby, by the power invested in me by the Internet, do declare this thread is dead.
I am certain that all of the lads on the air are good guys, trying hard and very committed. I hope they saved their MP3's from the relevant stations they used to work for.
No blame will be attached to them for this wreck.
In fact, someday, they may actually be allowed to speak in excess of the station's obvious requirement that all communication must be limited to 140 characters. (feeling the audience?)
In fact, someday, the time and energy wasted with annoying canned imaging hype, may be replaced by ANYTHING that is relevent or remotely interesting to the Calgary listener.
Entered into evidence is this documentary. Name the culprits and co-conspiritors and win a prize! Free meds for loyal listeners!
See if they "party like it''s 1999" ( they actually played that) when the book comes out. Then again, with their track record of a massive 3.2 share with MIX, it is all "UP" from here. Amen. :-/ :-/ Two confused Smiles for this Schizophrenic Station
Hey, don't get me wrong here. Rawlco is a legendary company and worthy of praise for what they did....and sure they made a truckload of cash selling out in Calgary, Ottawa etc...
It's just very disappointing that they so screwed up Calgary, the very city that put them into the big time as a company in the '80"s. If they had put the original 66CFR on FM, they would have been number one for decades and be there today.
They have tried that insane mix of rock, pop and country over and over again and it did not (and will never work) The consultant who put them up to that foolishness shall remain nameless. OK... Drop the country....call youself a MIX and then try to define it...try to explain and re-explain what they mean to their listeners...are you kidding me?
Very disappointing. I suspect Rogers will own this license within a year. Maybe Bell will out-bid.
Like RVet said...trading licenses like a comodity. No CRTC to worry about anymore.
Anyway, who cares....X 92.9 lets their young smart talent talk and I don't have to worry about hearing Sheena Easton or Tom freakin' Jones on that station.
Well RV you read me wrong... by "Priceless" I really mean "PRICELESS" More people should "SAY IT THE WAY IT IS" but we have become a society based on "Sparing feelings" all too often. I know many people in the biz that should of got their ASS kicked a long time ago - but haven't because someone didn't have the balls to do it.
Spinster is so correct. I remember well when I got my ass kicked by a guy who HAD the Cojones to do it. Probably the most upsetting air-check session of my career. EVERY single day, I THANK JJ for upsetting me that day and his huge Cajones.
While I am mentioning JJ. I know he has moved to the "Big Chair" with Corus. However, knowing him, he still has his most AWESOME radio knowledge available for young broadcasters to tap into.
JJ is simply the best talent coach I have EVER seen. It was my extreme pleasure to have been coached by him, and I owe him much.
Anybody else ever get your ass kicked by JJ? Good times...
Biffman: The PSR Hall Of Fame or go the way of José Luis Cerveto? (oops, there's some of that BOOK learning again). Not sure. We'll see. If I may, I think the interest shown in this thread confirms my suspicion (tongue firmly planted in cheek) of a talent coaching "vacuum" right now. So we are clear, I have no axe to grind with Rawlco or the staff there. I have never worked for that company, nor do I know any of the staff. Certainly, one bad launch does not make a company.
My original question - and it is unfortunate that Calgary got caught in the crossfire - was: What are we doing as an Industry to help our Industry? Not much right now! We need to admit as whole that we have made mistakes. We also have to pledge RIGHT NOW to a return of proper talent mentoring. A focus at the BEGINNING on the "basics" of what a REAL "professional communicator" IS and how to become one!
With 17,900 views now, I wonder if any owners or senior managers are reading (but not contributing for the obvious reasons).
If they are..then let's lay down a little challenge.
The companies that now control massive numbers of licenses should logically be the first to send you or me a PM and be prepared to buck up to create a modern Canadian mentoring experience. (It's called Talent Development folks and it may be tax deductible)
They now have the monopolies that they should never have been allowed to have if the CRTC hadn't folded on the very reason the CRTC was created. Diversity does not (should not?) mean the same format multiplied by the number of markets you can afford to buy into.
So, the first exec or owner who sends that PM will get a million dollars worth of advice and support and a 7 figure idea. I will show them exactly how to make money at it while doing something very useful for their industry and country.
Alright kiddies - settle down. Everyone is entitled to their opinion and unless things have changed while I was away last week, this country does promote and accept freedom of speech. Now I know why I am glued to satelite radio.
Saw the ad in The Herald this morning and tuned in to Up. OMG, you say Trip has big market experience. Could have fooled me - he sounded like he just left the Columbia School of Broadcasting which just shut down recently.
This guy sounds straight from Hicksville, Alabama with his doin, gettin, talkin and gonna. Talk about smashing the Queen's English. With all his dropped "g"s, he and Angela K over at QR get the "pronouncin" award of the year;D I won't be "listenin" to Trip again.
So go ahead and blast me as I'm proud of my broadcast heritage from "way back." At my age, I've got thick skin so if you don't like my opinion, criticize me like you have some of the other posters here. The ratings will be the judge of how this station fares.
No, I think you've got it right there "old guy." We would have been shown the door for that level of performance "back in the day."
One positive bit of news about "UP"...the mid-day man, Ara has lost the gangsta cap on his pictures. I thought it would have been a good touch, if the station was even remotely programming to that audience. Whatever. No one really seems to care. The music is all mixed up. Being articulate and making a point, any point, seems not to be in the mandate.
The Rogers stations must be thrillled. I don't often hear them mangled the language, and that's very good in my book. Positioned to make some serious gains in the fall.
(No I don't work for Rogers, by the way)
X is my favourite Calgary station and I have shoes older than their staff.
It's not oft en I get irked enough to respond to most of the dribble on this sight, but radio vet, take credit for this post. Whether you are or not, y ou come off as a bitter old man. Egotistical, arrogant, born again Swing jock. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, but nobody needs it rammed down their throat. Just so you know, I have 25 years in radio with a very positive and very different experience than yours. I was young talent at one time that had a few good nurturing PDs. Learned a lot from them, like speak the way your audience is used to being spoken to, which doesn't always include the queen's English. I am now in a position to help those entering the business get better at their craft and hope there are more out there who can hone skills rather than create clones. We NEED young talent to grow, make mistakes and learn from them rather than being discouraged by the likes of you. As for UP, they didn't get any numbers in Edmonton until EZ Rock flipped. Haven't heard the Calgary version so I can't comment first hand.
I I was young talent at one time that had a few good nurturing PDs. Learned a lot from them, like speak the way your audience is used to being spoken to, which doesn't always include the queen's English. I am now in a position to help those entering the business get better at their craft and hope there are more out there who can hone skills rather than create clones.
Am I in some sort of Bad Radio Twilight Zone here? Who put THIS GUY, who discourages the use of proper English and clearly doesn't know how to use it anyway, in charge of teaching young people to be communicators? Whomever empowers this, please stop it!
You keep making my point every time you babble on your keyboard. Give it a rest. You have a very narrow vision Open your eyes man You obviously don't take criticism very well so I can't imagine you're very constructive when handing it out
You keep making my point every time you babble on your keyboard. Give it a rest. You have a very narrow vision Open your eyes man You obviously don't take criticism very well so I can't imagine you're very constructive when handing it out
I remain a firm believer in the notion that " just because the individual listener doesn't necessarily speak like the announcer or use the same words and sentence structures, doesn't mean that she/he doesn't understand the communication."
It was probably American radio that invested in the idea of "dumbing down the jocks" so they could ""relate"" to the "great unwashed."
Who came up with 96 second news updates, anyway?
I'm not for a second suggesting that we "talk down" to the audience. It is not arrogant to speak clearly and spell to the best of your ability. It is not arrogant to demand communication that is not limited to 140 characters. It's not arrogant to discuss a great book or film...rather than Charlie Sheen.
Okay...ding, ding, ding. Shake hands and let's have a clean match.
Underdog,you make some valid points. Young talent certainly does need to be nurtured and brought along by those of us who have been up and down the dial. If they're lucky,being mentored will also be a part of it.
IMO though, a large and highly competetive market is NOT the place to begin work on grammar, syntax,dynamics, and other verbal weapons. Those things should have been taught and ingrained long before any mic was cracked in the big show,and should not have to be on the to-do list of their current PD or OM, as those people certainly have much bigger fish to fry.
The "Uppers" will certainly have a chance to interact and learn from some current and past stars of the Alberta airwaves when they mingle in Calgary media circles. We old pros have all dropped a few endings from sentences in our day, even the CBC types,but it needs to be said (again): Being able to contruct and present a basic sentence without using verbal pauses, and learning how not to paint one's self into an audio corner are skills every on-air person need to learn before getting to their "dream" job.
Sure, a little street-speak can be fine for flavor, but good communicators are a constant pleasure to listen to and learn from,and don't lean on it. From what I've heard,not many of Rawlco's new on-air hires land in that category,and that probably equates to lot radio dials being moved off the frequency and not returning to it,as identical music can be heard on numerous other signals in the market,with relatable jocks who "get it".
Now if all the excitement of this thread can convert to ratings for Rawlco's retooled machine, hey they'll be laughing all the way to the bank. I can't say as I've seen a station change generate so much "excitement" and people bashing as what this one has. Time to head back to Arizona cause this old guy's too tired to read pages upon pages of people bashing each other.
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm headed down to Stabuck's for a brew and then into my den for an XM/Sirius relaxation break.
It's not oft en I get irked enough to respond to most of the dribble on this sight.
And oh yah... Underdog or Astro or Brian or whatever you call yourself, one more thing before you go there poochie boy.
Please don't ever insult PSR again.
Puget Sound Radio is an amazing tool for idea exchange about radio and broadcasting in general. Mr. Easton puts a lot of energy and expertise into PSR to keep it as the quality broadcast resource it is. If I were him I would GAS you just for being a moron. But I'm not him and he is way too classy a guy.
RadioAnalyst. See, now THAT'S funny!! It's usually dudeslay who drops those awesome video BOMBS. Agreed, I sounded a little ...um, emotional there. However, you must admit that Underpooch is beyond imbecilic.
Well this was an interesting read. Anyways, a million pages back some of you were mentioning a youtube vid of Ara (maybe 2?). I saw the launch vids before they were removed. But what were his vids about? I tried to check em out shortly after the post of the link but obviously they took them down in a hurry...
My gawd..page one has dissapeared from listed view. Surely,but not certainly, a PSR first. :o
Btw,for those who missed it in season one of this thread, here again is the live link to the control room. (A slide may mean off hours,and un-manned control room, or the mgt has ducked and covered,and pulled the plug on the vid feed). http://www.ustream.tv/channel/yyc-camera
There's no CHR-cred.with with hard-core radio geeks, should they fly on auto-pilot at night.
A VERY smart radio guy once told me, and I make sure all my young PDs really understand this to it's fullest complexity, " A radio station chooses whether to be relevant or irrelevant to its listeners’ lives. It achieves relevancy by talking about and doing things that the listeners care about."
Next: What, in a real practical sense, does that mean?
Agreed radio wulf Radio vet, one last comment for you and as much as I'd like it to start with the letter "F" I won't grant you the pleasure of tearing me apart for that. You obviously crack under pressure, not a quality I like in my superiors. You choose to berate anyone who challenges you, not what you call thick skin If this is the way you encourage your people to create great radio, I for one am damn happy I have never worked for you. It would have been very short lived. I'm afraid vet, that I don't have any more time, energy or interest in keeping your flame burning on this thread. Adios and I really hope my opinion of you is wrong, but I doubt it
R Vet sounds like a PD in Fort Mac a few years ago. He was a KNOB too.
It's no wonder radio today has sunk to the low points it has with this kind mentality of the poster and his Underdog.
Without a doubt, Radio Vet knows his stuff and isn't afraid to lay it on the line. The Industry needs this kind of bold, straight forward thinking in order to survive. At first I thought you were coming across a little harsh RV, but then realized some of these guys and gals in the industry really don't get it and need to hear it the way it is and should be. You're an excellent teacher RV and I only wish I had the opportunity to have mentored under the thumb of someone like you.
It's no wonder radio today has sunk to the low points it has with this kind mentality of the poster and his Underdog.
Ditto!
One of the major problems is those in the industry who think they know everything, yet no nothing, or at best, very little.
As you know RV, you're not just dealing with individuals, but with monsters called EGO, or better yet, a thing called PRIDE. So many in the biz are so puffed up with it. And surprisingly, I've come to realize it applies more to those in the small markets, who have yet to even make a dent in the biz.
little towns, little people. May they remain where they are.
Remember the days when to get into the radio biz, we all started out in Courtney, Duncan, Dawson Creek, Weyburn, Lloydminster, Peace River, etc. A year or 2 there and you were off doing graveyards at CHED, and you thought you'd just won the lottery. Today, instead you start out in Vancouver, Edmonton, etc making $10.00 an hour. BUT you think you're great! 'Cause nobody tells you any different. The reality is you haven't a clue. You have no appreciation or realistic concept of what radio is all about. Combine that with the lack important skills like Writing copy, READING news or spots and no real command of the English language, and you end up with what we hear on the air every day. Unfortunately the other reality is we who know better are dinosaurs. Nobody really cares what we say or do. BTW....when was the last time you heard a national spot (unless spoken in character) where the voice said jist, fir, git, gonna, etc.
So far, this has been an excellent exercise for me. For myriad reasons. Not the least of which: This thread has forced me to go back and examine and check that I have all my OWN ducks in a row. I'm doing pretty well. Great exercise!
So, thanks for that.
The irony, particularly in light of some of the nastier shots I've taken here, is rather comical. Here's why - I recognize my younger self in most of those comments.
Permit me to explain: I was extremely lucky, very early in my career to get called to "The Majors" - whatever THAT means - (every station you work for, regardless of market size, should be Major Market in your mind as far as you and your professionalism are concerned). Major Market is not a place, it is a state of mind. When I say I got a lucky call to "The Majors"...I don't mean Kelowna, like the kid said to me on the phone during an aircheck the other day, where he referred to himself as working "The Show". I don't mean Calgary or Edmonton, so called Major Markets in Canada. You must mean Toronto then RV. The "Big Smoke" right? Nope!
I - an unprepared, unprofessional, egotistical, little snot head maniac, landed myself a gig in a Top 5 American market.
Oh Oh!
This was BAD!
No, I mean this was....REALLY bad!
A very painful attitude adjustment quickly followed from a HUGE market PD who had seen punks like me come through his office more times than Charlie Sheen has been through The Betty Ford Clinic and Charlie has been in and out of Betty Ford more times than Gerald, but I digress!
The good news: He didn't gas me. He came pretty close I'm sure. Through that REAMING, his amazing skill at guiding young talent and the way he provided REAL PRACTICAL exercises, plus a bunch of Big Market osmosis, I began to sound like I knew a little about being a communicator, not just some kid who fell into a gig.
I was lucky.
He was patient, but a BRUTAL task master. He really had no time for or interest in coddling or nurturing. He would NEVER have been an "emotional babysitter" like so many on this thread have demanded of me. A "Thundering Velvet Hand" is how I refer to it. In performance related talent coaching, that "Thunder" works. Trust me.
I said I would have some ideas about station relevancy. It really does not matter what format you are rolling.
Rock, Country, AC, Jazz etc, regardless of format specifics every type of listener has something called a psychograph. By defintion: A graphic representation or chart of the personality traits of an individual or group.
You must go to school on that psychograph.
We have been discussing adult females on this thread so let's go with that.
A start on that psychograph is really simple. Go to the places she goes and open your eyes.
A quick side bar. When I am asked about how to do show prep, I always start with "Open Your Eyes"!
First rule of being a well rounded professional communicator is - PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR OWN LIFE. If you are sincerely trying to get to know your audience - instant, local, demo focused show prep is ALL around you.
To wit: More than anything, what is most important to a woman? Correct answer would have been, her children.
Next on the list is probably her hair. I am in no way suggesting that you stop down and do a 5 minute break on her trip to the Beauty Salon. However, any one of the 3 second hair hints below over an intro of a song, will show your adult female listener that you really care about her and the things she is into. A million of those breaks and she may start to like you. Find your stylist through a referral and be sure to refer your stylist to others.
Saturday mornings are the worst time for appointments; this is their busiest day.
Best appointment times are earlier in the week; try to get their second or third appointment of the day as they are settled in but not very tired yet.
Schedule a consultation if you’re seeing a stylist for the first time.
A good stylist will realistically tell you what can happen with your hair; they probably can’t make you look like Jennifer Aniston.
Pre-book your appointment, stylists appreciate loyalty.
Do not be late; it challenges the rest of his or her schedule.
Tip well; at least 20 percent and tip with cash. Remember to tip assistants too.
Listen to their product recommendations; it’s not about the commission (small) but actually something they think your hair needs.
Show how much you want cut off; don’t just say “about three inches.”
If you seek a last-minute appointment, ask to be on a wait list or speak with the stylist directly.
All hair textures cut differently; book extra time if it’s needed.
When I am asked about how to do show prep, I always start with "Open Your Eyes"!
YES!! AGREED!! 100% - no "Prep Site" will EVER give you the prep you need to deliver a well rounded show that will not only connect with your target audience, but engage them as well.
Find your stylist through a referral and be sure to refer your stylist to others.
Saturday mornings are the worst time for appointments; this is their busiest day.
Best appointment times are earlier in the week; try to get their second or third appointment of the day as they are settled in but not very tired yet.
Schedule a consultation if you’re seeing a stylist for the first time.
A good stylist will realistically tell you what can happen with your hair; they probably can’t make you look like Jennifer Aniston.
Pre-book your appointment, stylists appreciate loyalty.
Do not be late; it challenges the rest of his or her schedule.
Tip well; at least 20 percent and tip with cash. Remember to tip assistants too.
Listen to their product recommendations; it’s not about the commission (small) but actually something they think your hair needs.
Show how much you want cut off; don’t just say “about three inches.”
If you seek a last-minute appointment, ask to be on a wait list or speak with the stylist directly.
All hair textures cut differently; book extra time if it’s needed.[/b]
Sorry there, John Tesh, but if my announcers started "telling" my audience how to live their life, it wouldn't be the nicest aircheck they'd receive.
In today's world of "everyone has an opinion" you need to dig a lot deeper for show prep. Yes, you have the right subjects with Children and Hair for women, but where did you exactly "OPEN YOUR EYES" to get those quoted ideas for your show? Looks like a clear cut list I'd see on RadioOnline.
Go into a salon.. sit there for an hour.. listen to the conversations women are having with their stylist, and OTHER women alike! What are THEY talking about...
"I caught my husband/boyfriend talking to his ex on Facebook... how do I talk to him?"
"I'm so excited to get married on a beach! We haven't finalized details though, where should we go?"
"Did you see that episode of (insert favorite reality show here)? How could (he/she) do that!!"
"My kid came home from school asking about ____"
We are communicators in today's radio, needing to engage in conversation with our listeners, not TELL THEM how to live their life.
Yes, you have the right subjects with Children and Hair for women, but where did you exactly "OPEN YOUR EYES" to get those quoted ideas for your show? Looks like a clear cut list I'd see on RadioOnline."
Actually, the list was pulled (no pun intended) from Cosmopolitan Magazine. I make sure there is a current copy in each of my female skewing stations. Radioanalyst, you are most correct and astute regarding listener engagement. My concern is that you have moved on to lesson 34. We are still back on lesson 2 or 3. Please remember where this thread began. Audience engagement must certainly come after audience identification. I was not suggesting that the content above be presented as is, I was simply trying to point out that female skewing content is all around you and you must be diligent in learning about her and her lifestyle. I'm pretty sure you and I are in agreement here. I guess, if we want to tease to further lessons, the real trick is to take that female skewing content found in Cosmo or wherever, and make it "local."
I am also wondering Radio, if hanging around the beauty salon staring at and eves-dropping on women getting their hair washed and blow dried, might get one arrested.
Just riffin'
John Tesh? I wish...that guy must sooo get laid 8)
Sweet Mother of Pearl. This reminds me of the time I asked my Dad how he put together his Hot tub and he began by telling me how galvanized nails were made. Carry on...
So MMU now has a posting for a Morning Co-Host at UP. Not sure..but who bailed/was dumped/demoted....and why? (Inquiring minds sort of have a hankering to hear a little about it).
We have to be absolutely shocked that they (or anyone) would approach this launch, re-lanch, flip et al as a live science experiment. That's what campus stations do, not major market stations. Read the ad on Milkman..???? What are they talking about?
It's very bizarre.
I place their music universe at about 200 songs including the same old burned out cancon.
While money guys and pseudo-programmers (some even found on this thread) make local radio as inane as a nickel Jukebox, I think it important to go back and remember that radio is really the best delivery system for true "Theatre Of The Mind" or great storytelling. When I judge a radio station as to it's "greatness", the music, imaging and promotions get my last look. Of course a "great" radio station has all those elements in place but must be built on a foundation of experienced and capable personalities who recognize the importance of all things ‘local’, and really get into finding new and compelling ways to relay those local stories. Remember to always use proper sentence structure and please don't bore me.
Sweet Mother of Pearl. This reminds me of the time I asked my Dad how he put together his Hot tub and he began by telling me how galvanized nails were made. Carry on...
How about a little experiment. Let's find out how serious Canada's young broadcasters are about investing in their own careers. Let's see who is really committed to becoming a true communicator and not just another forgettable mid-tier jock.
If you have been on the air for less than 2 years, sign up for Puget Sound Radio and then PM me with questions about how to move your act to the next level. Bounce me a brief description of where you are struggling and I will get back to you, as soon as I can, with suggestions on how to improve.
I have read many times on this thread about lack of direction and resources for young broadcasters. These issues can no longer be an excuse.
The way this station http://www.hot107.ca/ grasps SM just BLOWS me away. I think they may have even been mentioned as such this weekend at Social Media Conference #11 in Victoria. In fact, if I'm not mistaken they recently drew 5,ooo people to free show directly through the amazing social media they employ. THAT is the way to connect with an audience. Bravo!!!
BTW Hot 107, LOVE LOVE LOVE, The Summer "Umbrella"
ok RV, you've moved too far off topic now and are trying to milk a dead cow. You've made your point a dozen times in this thread. Let it die and pick a new one to flog the horse on.
Okay. Let's get something straight: a dead cow can still have good milk in it. And if it dies in a refrigerator, the milk could keep for at least a good week or two! Before you go using dairy analogies, please do your research and stop insulting all of our intelligence. This is ridiculous. I find your statement especially offensive because of the impending milk shortage due to the flooding. ;)
I know that this thread has been declared dead, but I wanted to add something in defense of all the lackluster young jocks out there: There are some really bad older timer PD's handing down some terrible advice. I was employed at a station where the old veteran PD (whom I loved dearly for his ingenious programming methods) took the station to number one in the market, and then was promptly scooped up by another company. Enter new veteran PD. My first one-on-one with the new guy went something like this "hey, I hear what you're doing on the air and I get it ... you're trying to be an entertainer. But the music is more important, so from now on why don't you just backsell, and then go to comercial?" How's that shiz for direction that belongs in the toilet? And keep in mind I was winning my time slot. The station was known for it's nice, tight, entertaining, LOCAL, fun radio. But that all changed fast. And so did the ratings. With these types of orders coming down from the top, young broadcast hopefuls don't stand a chance!
ok RV, you've moved too far off topic now and are trying to milk a dead cow. You've made your point a dozen times in this thread. Let it die and pick a new one to flog the horse on.
Remember the days when to get into the radio biz, we all started out in Courtney, Duncan, Dawson Creek, Weyburn, Lloydminster, Peace River, etc. A year or 2 there and you were off doing graveyards at CHED, and you thought you'd just won the lottery. Today, instead you start out in Vancouver, Edmonton, etc making $10.00 an hour. BUT you think you're great! 'Cause nobody tells you any different. The reality is you haven't a clue. You have no appreciation or realistic concept of what radio is all about. Combine that with the lack important skills like Writing copy, READING news or spots and no real command of the English language, and you end up with what we hear on the air every day. Unfortunately the other reality is we who know better are dinosaurs. Nobody really cares what we say or do. BTW....when was the last time you heard a national spot (unless spoken in character) where the voice said jist, fir, git, gonna, etc.
I agree with this. I've only been in radio for about 3 years or so, 2 of those on air. When I went to broadcasting school, they told us you gotta pay your dues, go to the smaller markets, make your mistakes, and then you'll be ready for the big leagues. That's what I'm doing...guess it'll take me longer to get to Edmonton or Calgary, but at least I'll be a better broadcaster for it (I hope)
I'm not sure you REALLY need to "pay your dues" as you describe. I, myself have experienced work in mid and major markets. If you're good enough for a major market, you're good enough for a major market. Would you ask Sidney Crosby to spend a couple years in the minors to "pay his dues"?
No...you might not ask Sidney Crosby to "pay his dues", but for every ONE Sidney Crosby, there are A HUNDRED Wade Belak's.
Personally, I'm of the whole "pay your dues" philosophy, but people shouldn't look at it as a negative. Look on it as a learning opportunity. In a small market, you're going to learn it all. Music, production, promotions, on-air...and who knows what else. And that experience and knowledge is going to put you head-and-shoulders above the applicant who's fresh out of the local broadcasting academy and thinks he/she is God's gift to radio.
I'm not sure you REALLY need to "pay your dues" as you describe. I, myself have experienced work in mid and major markets. If you're good enough for a major market, you're good enough for a major market. Would you ask Sidney Crosby to spend a couple years in the minors to "pay his dues"?
Actually - Sidney Crosby did spend many years in the minors paying his dues and getting better and better. How many NHL players do you know of that came out of hockey school and landed a contract in the NHL? 8)
What if your only interest is being on-air? I don't see a big deal in doing small market work if your good enough for a major market.
Whatever happened to the thirst for knowledge? Just because your only interest is on air doesn't mean you can't learn other facets of the industry. What exactly makes someone 'good enough for a major market?' Raw talent is great, but to really become successful in radio, one should never claim to "have arrived" but instead always strive to reach a higher level of excellence. Trust me, it won't kill you :)
I'm not sure you REALLY need to "pay your dues" as you describe. I, myself have experienced work in mid and major markets. If you're good enough for a major market, you're good enough for a major market. Would you ask Sidney Crosby to spend a couple years in the minors to "pay his dues"?
Guys: As I've pointed out in previous posts, Saskatune is pretty much clueless. I can't believe, even a numbskull like him, would think the above to be true. He is simply trying to get a rise out us 8)
As it is in music, there are lots of "players" and a very much smaller number of "artists." Many players are quite happy to never stretch and put in the work to become artists. They are compensated accordingly.
That goes for PD's as well, by the way.
It is especially sad when the owners and consultants beat the creative and artistic drive out of the PD's who then pass it on to the staff.
But that is the industry today...happy to make a buck by being mediocre and playing safe. Spend more money on bus benches and other ineffective promotion than they would ever spend on talent development.
My first major market boss, demanded that I go to a vocal coach, as in singing. And he paid for the sessions. Not that I was bad (I had to assume as much because he had hired me) but man, did that give me a huge boost.
Any owners and managers out there?
We are not expensive. You will make money! (Shameless Self-Promotion is concluded)
This thread could very well be one of the most painfull I've ever read!
Regarding UP...(previously Magic in Edmonton) has gone from a dump of a station to a Top 5 in a year and they're using jocks who I can almost guarantee were not alive when most of the music they play was recorded. With PPM knowing the music doesn't matter...entertaining content does! Content that relates to your audience!
Forget the record, I don't know it all and I've never claimed I do. (If I did, would I be in radio?) The discussion has moved to small markets, so I'll toss in my 2 cents.
A little about my backgroud first. 20 years in radio, 15 years in Major Market Mornings, started in a market with 2000 people.
I speak to radio grads at least twice a year and everytime I do there's always someone who wants to start in a Major Market. My response, go ahead! You'll NEVER start in one of the major dayparts...On the other hand, spend a few years in a small market figuring out who you are you can easily slip into a decent shift!
My first few years in radio were spent doing mornings, MD, sales, news, sports and painting the transmitter building! Do yourself a favor, start in a small market! Enjoy it! Make NO MONEY, struggle, be hungry, miss your family...you'll appreciate that Major Market gig a lot more when you get it!
Go ahead and listen to most Major Market stations! Outside of mornings, stations are filled with cookie cutter jocks! Personality Radio has never been more in demand with PPM. Wanna make an impact, figure out who you are in a market where they'll let you, come back and kick the cookie cutters a$$es!
Again, I don't know it all. But I do know what worked for me! And I've done very well...and unlike most on this board...I have no bitterness towards this business, it's treated me quite nicely thank you!
This has been entertaining and knowledgeable to say the least. I've been sitting back and reading through post and post and post. It's refreshing to hear Radio Veteran speaking his mind as he did here. We live in a world now where we can't say anything constructive "If it's going to hurt someone's feelings". Is this what happens when mom's get involved in Radio? We are no longer able to "hurt feelings"?
This is a business first and foremost; Radio Vet is a clear example of this. He backs up his points and actually makes an effort to constructively give feedback to help. I think what we are talking about here is not only the worst flip in Calgary history, but also the direction of on-air talent to come in Radio. People like Tripp and Ara will only last so long with their in-ability’s to communicate effectively. The station will run dry from sales, the staff will be looking for jobs again and who knows what will happen to 977 (Get sold I hope).
Seriously though, thank you Radio Vet. I'm a SAIT grad and I thought Steve Olson (Instructor) was a hard ass in school. Not only are me and the guy great friends now, but he showed me what this business is really like and what you have to do to be successful in it. It was the best LIFE (not just Radio) experience I've ever had. People, learn from what Radio Vet is expressing (Take with a grain of salt sometimes), but we all know what he is saying is true
I love this industry, I love the radio drama, (No I don't watch those TLC shows on TV) and after all, it beats working for a living.
Kev's show seemed to consist of about two 10 second breaks per hour involving little more than saying "hey, we're new," "we're a lot of fun" and the brilliant close of his show involved wondering aloud if Chilliwack the band had anything to do with Chilliwack, BC. Welcome to Canada, Kev.
Regarding UP...(previously Magic in Edmonton) has gone from a dump of a station to a Top 5 in a year and they're using jocks who I can almost guarantee were not alive when most of the music they play was recorded. With PPM knowing the music doesn't matter...entertaining content does! Content that relates to your audience!
In an otherwise pretty astute post Rigdon, I have to check you on the above. Surely this can't happen. I hear you with regards to PPM data and music. I think you falter in that smart PD's in a PPM world will find ways to make sure that product info (music info) remains and is presented properly to reflect and take advantage of said PPM world). A station that ignores music info, in an attempt to "work" PPM data, is done. Even Ryan Seacrest has music and artist info/content featured prominently in his show. He just knows how to present it, that with his understanding of all things local, even in LA, makes him AWESOME!
Is this what happens when mom's get involved in Radio? We are no longer able to "hurt feelings"?
Bingo! There is no CRYING in Radio.
Radioliveson: Thanks.
Just so you know I'm not just "talkin the talk"...A very talented young man working in small town (pop. 5K) Ontario asked me for some help through this thread. I have been working with him now for about 3 weeks. He has been on the air for only 8 months and is a graduate of BCIT. Very bright and very ambitious. Excellent. Early in our relationship I asked him, what book he had read last? He said : "A History of Knowledge: Past, Present, and Future by Charles Van Doren." Okaayyy, better not embarrass myself with this one. This kid is going to be "OFF THE CHAIN", not because I am coaching him but because he already inherently "gets it". After the first aircheck I could tell he was getting bad advice from an even worse PD (kinda like Underpooch). A few quick tips about how to tighten up his presentation was all it took. I can't wait to work with him some more in his NEW gig he just landed today in market size 20 times bigger and a better daypart! Congrats Zach :) You "EARNED" it.
I love that story, RV. The same happened for me. Someone took raw talent and gave it discipline and direction. Good job!
Note and hint to PD's: You can't really "inspire" others by words. They will ulimately inspire themselves with their own actions. Unless a PD can demonstrate excellence, then explain how and why they mastered that level, the student will not grasp it.
Note to Owners: Your PD may be an excellent and valuable manager of systems and an expert in executing a plan and integrating the various departments. But if they cannot teach/mentor in the above pattern, you must hire a performance coach for the staff. It does not diminish the PD's value. It enhances it. Especially true outside of the major markets in my opinion.
As in hockey, players will take a "hometown discount" if the environment is right. They will spend their extra time working for your station rather than sending out resumes and airchecks.
Regarding music info...in my opinion, it depends largely on the format!
Country Audiences are VERY loyal and want to know about their favorite artists! Not sure the gang at UP can give us any new info on Katrina and the Waves!
Since the arrival of PPM, content and more importantly entertaining content that grabs the listeneres ear has never been more important! Research has shown that if a listener forsees a commercial break or boring jock talk...they're gone!
However, PPM data also reflects that with a quick, compelling, well thought out tease to the song or songs coming up after the break, audience retention through the stop set rises to 94%.
I guess as you say, it's all you how look at it.
Content that quickly grabs the listener's ear can be music related.
How about this...
UP Jock: Up music on the way from the band from OZ who's lead singer was actually a member of Parliament there and the lady who took half of her stage name from a Queen song.
Tops 7 seconds. Compelling, musically informative and I'd sit through the stopset to find out more.
BTW, Midnight Oil and Lady Gaga is what you would have heard in the next music set.
I like this Rigdon guy. Why does this thread have so many views? Because this is as richly entertaining as it gets.
Let's get it on.
If you actually listen to the station or format in question...there is NO communication outside of the imaging pieces...which have that shitty electronic "weeng weeng, wah wah..neeyet neetet" electronic vocal sculpting that the bad rapper chicks use. (to disquise the fact they cannot sing and the material is bad)
Why do they even need live people? The ones they have must speak at high speed, in 10 second bursts.
They dump their roots, folk and other license promises at night with no announcer! (Actually the best listening of the day because they just stole Allison Brock's lists before they canned her)
This is not radio. (Insert agressive curse here)
Pathetic.
I feel very badly for the people who bought the "story" to actually come to this wreck thinking it was "major market." They know they are better than this. The staff should not lose heart. (Hint: If you slow down...you don't sound like you just inhaled helium)
But that's not in the format, is it?
Oh yes, the music?
I'm waiting to hear Sweet Emotion into the Archies. They've done everything but. Read the play log and sing along.
Why do they even need live people? The ones they have must speak at high speed, in 10 second bursts.
(Hint: If you slow down...you don't sound like you just inhaled helium!
Biffman is bang on yet again.
Lesson 83 with youngsters is to explain that speed of delivery does not equate enthusiastic sincere on air energy. Very tough and requires lots of hard work to master. As a Calgary PD I would have insisted that my new hires, particularly my morning talent, already have that as part of their playbook.
I can actually show you how to create "sincere on-air energy" with a one word "whisper". But then I'd just be showing off.
Naw..that would take 15-25 seconds...and break their holy format. :o :o
Biifman clearly knows as I, relatable demo skewing content, music or otherwise, is everywhere around you.
A GREAT talent coach teaches young talent how to first unlock the brain, then open it wide, and then shows it how to recognize this huge volume of content.
Getting back to young talent starting out in Major Market...BIG MISTAKE. I don't care how good you really think you are. If you do not go through the process of learning your trade and making mistakes in a small market then you will have robbed yourself of a great experience. Small market radio is the most wonderful time in your career. You meet up and comers like yourself and you get to do all sorts of different jobs that will prepare you when you do work in the majors. You starve, you go without sleep, you experience everything that is right and wrong about radio. Plus something else that is so valuable as you move along in your career...you earn respect, trust and knowledge from your peers. You'll never know what a good PD is until you have a few experiences with the good the bad and the ugly (sorry Clint)
Passion! I run into so many people who have lost the passion, which is another timeless ingredient to success. I see a lot of amateur manufactured radio recreationist passion around these days. It doesn't work and it ain't fooling anybody. Having real passion about what you do and being proud of what you hear makes your product exponentially better than your competitor.
I'm not sure how many broadcasters have that pride factor anymore.
It's hard to have passion for something that seems to have little interest in you. I have a few friends facing this very predicament right now and have in the past. Hell, I've even questioned my passion for it from time to time. Many are facing the issue of having overbearing bosses who have pigeonholed them to do only certain things. "Must stopset here". "Must talk here". "Must talk about this there". Creativity drives passion in this industry. A select few PDs and GMs are willing to let it happen though. Then when you go above and beyond the call of duty because of your passion, you're rewarded with...
With...
A friendly smile. And the expectation that you will put out that same amount of work for bargain basement prices. Then you go for your review and everything's peachy. You ask for a raise and you get this response (and I quote): "Why would we give you any more money when we could hire someone straight out of college for less than what you're making now?"
Passion is sometimes rewarded, sometimes it's not. It can't be about the reward, it MUST be about the passion and how to continuously drive yourself to have it.
I just got a PM from a guy accusing me of being rude. Look, I might sound "arrogant." I might sound "harsh." I might sound raw, uncut. I'm just genuine: I tell it like it is. "Fake it, till ya make it" is not really a phrase in my vocabulary. Authentic, yes! It is what I do, what I teach, what I share, with you and the world.
Passion is sometimes rewarded, sometimes it's not. It can't be about the reward, it MUST be about the passion and how to continuously drive yourself to have it.
No I'll agree with that. It's not necessarily about the reward though. It's more about the expectation of a certain standard being met and exceeded by that passion. Then THAT becomes the expectation and you exceed that. It becomes a cycle and burns people out. That's why you don't have "experienced up-and-comers" in radio anymore. Anyone with between 5-10 years experience gets out while they still can. They see how much they are valued. Just an unfortunate reality in this business now. (just to keep this somewhat on track) That's why I hope the guys at UP get some help through this process. A pat on the back for things done well and constructive criticism for things that could have gone better.
The PD gets the boot and the GM still has his gig...Funny that it was a female PD. From what I hear they interviewed a few females but the GM made all the decisions. The PD still got blamed. Upper management, the only safe gig in this industry.
Yes, PD got canned this week. Typical that a poorly managed company would fire from the bottom up, instead of the top down, as it should have been. GM should be next, but how often does that happen???
Welcome to the biz micgirl. In many businesses, dedication, being a team player, going above and beyond what is expected of you, giving 110 per cent , etc. would mean heading up the ranks. In this business it means squat in the end. It may be a very cynical view but I believe it is the truth. Also, experience is the kiss of death in radio. Experience=someone who won't be thrilled working for nothing, someone who can see through the bs and in the end is a real liability. Sad, but I think very true.
I remember some of Kath Thompson's interviews back in the Standard/Sound Source days. Absolutely top notch. A brilliant interviewer and producer who got to talk with some of the biggest rock acts ever.
In many businesses, dedication, being a team player, going above and beyond what is expected of you, giving 110 per cent , etc. would mean heading up the ranks. In this business it means squat in the end.
Since Rawlco's not afraid to voice track the odd shift out of market, would it make sense for them to have a proven female from another station pull a shift for the Calgary station? It would be inexpensive and give Up a little more depth. It certainly wouldn't hurt.
Home
Calendar
Search
Register
Login
Logged
