SITE: DESIGNED,WRITTEN, EDITED-JONATHAN L WHERE THE MUSIC HITS THE FAN! TM 2004/2005 January 31 Justin Timberlake Birthday's today: John "Johnny Rotten" Lydon, Nolan Ryan, Norman Mailer Carol Channing, Ernie Banks, Benjamin L. Hooks, Jackie Robinson 1919-1972 You won the lottery, you build your dream radio station: Let's see. For me that would be...in the Mayan Rivera, in one of those beautiful casa's on the beach south of Tulum. I'd be playing lots of sexy latin dance music. That would be my ideal station. Jillian Reitsma What Are Records, Denver CO I would have a progressive pop/rock station covering the great music made only before 1979. 1. Doo Wop 2. Rock of the 50's (Chuck, Fats, Little Richard, Buddy Holly,etc) 3. Girl groups of the 60's 4. The Brill Bldg. 5. The British invasion. 6. 60's progressive rock (Cream, The Who, etc) 7. Flower power and psychedelic 8. Great 60's pop (Rascals, Beach Boys) 9. Soul (Otis, Aretha, etc) 10. The Folkie's (Dylan, James Taylor, Neil Young) 11. Country rock (Poco, Burrito's, early Eagles) 12. 70's rock from the Allman's to the Sex Pistols...all presented by informative DJ's who would teach us about rock music and talk to us like we were sitting in the living room. I've got more idea's...but enough for now. Stu Cohen Three Kings Records, Burbank CA Mexico! Plus...I'd follow all Con-Can regulations so the Mexican nation would be able to hear a lot of Rush and Tragically Hip. Ian McCain PD KJQN, Salt Lake City UT January 30 Phil Collins Birthday's today: Mark Eitzel, Dick Cheney, Ruth Brown, Gene Hackman, Jalen Rose, Franklyn Delano Roosevelt 1882-1945 Question of the week: You won the lottery-build your own dream radio station. Where would it be? What would it sound like? Let's start off with the ever thinking Gary Jay of TVT Records New York. I guess if I won the lottery (and bought a radio station, instead of a pro football team or a guitar store, or a recording studio??)...well, ratings, TSL, etc wouldn't be a factor...cuz it's MY station, right? Who cares how many people tune in ot out? Billing, schmilling...I'm rich already! I'd havea serious block-programmed station...probably like a college, or community-run station ...that ran the whole gamut: rock, jazz, blues, electronic/ambient, black metal, etc. It'd be a station that you would listen to just to see what the fuck was comin' up next...that...or I'd program it like MTV was when it first signed on...NO format ...ANYTHING goes. Black Sabbath into Wang Chung, into Pat Bentar into Kansas into Lipps Inc., into AC/DC into Prince & The Revolution into Charles Mingus, into Hanoi Rocks into Eddy Grant! You'd have to keep listening because you just couldn't imagine what coming up next. There would be some TRAIN-WRECKS as far as seques went...but, again...MY station...who cares. Again, old-school MTV-style ...before Nick and Jessica, and Road Rules marathons were invented. I like that Gary...some good thoughts on the question of the week...which will continue all week. Already have some very clever and humorous ones, so stay tuned. You still have time to send yours. January 29 Huddie "Leadbelly" Ledbetter 1889-1949 Birthday's today: Oprah Winfrey, Tom Selleck, Greg Louganis, Louie Perez Proffessor Irwin Corey, Victor Mature 1916-1999, W.C. Fields 1880-1946 Marc Alghini responds with this question: "Hey there, just read your blog, and I think Miss Jones was completely wrong and tasteless on the spoof... but here is something to think about. If the GM/Owner hires some one to "shock" the audience, wouldn't the onus of responsibility go to the them instead of the jock, who is doing what they were hired to? It was discussed a bit on the NY Radio Board, but seriously...that's what they are hired to do" As I ponder your question...I still think regardless...Miss Jones is wrong. Did the GM/Owner conjure up the bit and tell her to run with it? I highly doubt it. Did the morning crew take their plan/idea to the GM? Maybe...but I doubt it, unless they did...then I would say the GM/Owner is fully responsible. In the end...making fun of dead people, especially in this case...everybody at the station has to take responsibilty for this. Miss Jones might be the voice, but all are GUILTY at Hot 97 including her! As a follow-up...Hot 97 is losing clients such as Toyota, and H&R Block, among others. Emmis must be steaming!-JL Her name comes up from time to time, and I found out that Alexa Tobin, formely of WXRK, WBRU, and WEQX is now living in Manchester VT and is a snowboard instructer. One would assume she is happy, considering she didn't leave Manchester after the WEQX gig. Must be something about snow? KKND New Orleans PD Sig sounded extremely happy when I spoke with him yesterday. He's back doing mornings with sidekick VYDRA. They call the show "The Morning Train Wreck", saying "it's a lot of controlled chaos, dead air, and a lot of audience participation". He says he still stays up late and prefers to have less sleep and jacked up on coffee. -LOL Credibility?: Ok...first let me set the mood. I'm sitting at my computer, "Radio Ass Kiss" by The Wonderstuff is playing in rotation on my iTunes, KROQ is on below me on a shelf as I am taping something for Steve Masters, and the news is on to my left on the 14" flat screen TV, next to the computer. I am smiling...and in a good mood...for real. I don't feel ornery...lol...just...in a pleasant mood as I respond to an e-mail that I recieved from FMQB's Mike Parrish. Always a man of words, Mike simply says "Mr. Rosen...You tell me who's more credible?" MP He has sent an attachment, that frankly took me a while to open, but when I did I was bursting with laughter. It was a chart from Alexa, the system that ranks the traffic of websites. It's the daily reach per millions per day. His blue lines are much higher than mine, although they have many peaks and valleys. My first reaction is pretty much the same as it is now. Ok...so your (fill in the blank) is bigger than mine. Mike...I know this a reaction to what I said a couple of days ago (scroll down)...but you must be serious to take the time to upload the chart. As of this writing FMQB is ranked at 81,688, which is fantastic, and I am at a lowly 286,084...out of over 100 millions websites all over the world. Mike, I've only had this site up 3 months...compared to years for your company. First, I am not a trade magazine, nor do I pretend to be one...this is a WEBZINE. So what's rankings got to do with price of tea in China? Or for that matter credibility? Take a fun poke once in a while, it won't harm you. I like you Mike, always have...you're a "nice" guy. I'm not. I've earned the right to say what I think, and guess what? I do. Now...if you are trying to say that you personally have more credibility than me...that's a whole other story. Mike...you had an average radio career, and you work for a trade magazine/website. Big F'n deal! (I am still smiling as I type this:) As far as I'm concerned all trade magazines, save one -allaccess...suck, are unimportant, mean very little anymore and should shrivel up and go away! As for me...my site doesn't portray to be anything then what it is. A fun place for people, not just the biz, to find some fun stuff to read and be informed in a different way than the stiff conservative R&R, the thin as toilet paper HITS, and, the mostly late news of FMQB. You can take away budgets, you can slice and dice the industry any way you want...but humor and saying what others won't sometimes has much more credibility than trying to be first with the news and smooching every ass around. (I am still smiling, yes Steve, I hit the record button, still watching glimpes of the news and Jack White is screaming from my computer!) I have no credibility...so I think I'll stop now.-LOL January 28 Elijah Wood Birthday's today: Nick Carter, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Dante Culpepper, Jermaine Dye, David Lodge, Alan Alda Not Funny: According to the Associated Press, The host of WQHT-FM, an Emmis New York station, was suspended, along with rest of the morning crew. They were suspended on Wednesday. Tarsha Jones known as Miss Jones did a parody of the charity single "We Are The World" last Friday. The song mocked the victims of the catastrophic South Asia tsunami. Rick Cummings, president of Emmis Radio said "What happened is morally and socially indefensible" He goes on to say "All involved, myself included, are ashamed and deeply sorry. I know the members of the morning team are contrite. They know their actions here are inexcusable". Ya know...normally I would defend any persons right to free speech, and usually do the majority of the time. Yet...Miss Jones...what the fuck were you thinking? Look, Howard Stern and his crew farting and all the stuff they do doesn't offend me...I just think alot of it is boring...hence..I don't listen to Howard. I do watch his show on TV occasionally though. Maybe I find it funnier or at least amusing visually. I prefer Kevin & Bean every morning on KROQ. For some strange reason...they are damn good and really don't go for the low blow or blue humor very much. Great interviews with both the musical and film/TV world. "Money" (aka Matt Smith, former promo domo at Dreamworks) is wry and humorous, although I don't feel he's trying to be...or maybe he is and doesn't know it. Anyway...throw in Ralph Garmen and Lisa May...it makes a great morning team. All, I can say is... MISS JONES...you royally fucked up...there are certain subjects you just leave alone, and if someone on your crew came up with the lame idea... you shoulda just said...uh uh..and walked away from it. I have never heard your show...and more than likely you'll be back on-air soon...but babe... go for it on any subject except where many have died...and that topic will never be funny any way you look at it. Got it? If Kevin & Bean ever, which I haven't heard them do, nor do I think they will make fun of the train disaster of two days ago here in LA...I will never listen again and switch over to Howard and deal with farts and the same old tired sex jokes. "Cool Dude" of the week "They play Good Charlotte on the radio...and that's the way I like it...they play Sleepy Jackson on the radio...and that's the way I like it...they play Beyonce on the radio...and that's the way I like it...they don't play me (laughs) on the radio...and that's the way I like it" (from "Catch My Disease") Aussie Ben Lee kicks it with this happy head nodder from his forthcoming album Awake Is The New Sleep on new label New West Records. This in from WHRL Albany PD Lisa Biello..."How come you can't smoke in offices anymore? 'Cause I would be way more productive with an ashtray by my side? I'm jonesing for a smokey treat and haven't had one since 2PM and it's 2 degrees outside...plus the wind chill!" (on-air on Thursday) January 27 Bridget Fonda Birthday's today: Chris Collinsworth, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart 1756-1791 Donna Reed 1921-1986, Laiden and Laleth Bijani (conjoined twins) 1974-2003 Horrific: Is the only way to describe yesterday morning's disaster. A man who was suicidal parked his Jeep on the railroad tracks on the Glendale/Atwater Village border, decided not to kill himself...then couldn't move the vehicle, and stood by and watched as one MTA train hit the jeep, derailing into on oncoming train and also slamming into a parked Union Pacific train loaded with gravel...creating the worst train disaster in Los Angeles history. 11 people were killed and over two hundred injured. This was less than two miles from my house and I could smell the spilt fuel all the way up by me. For those who know the area...it was just behind Costco on Los Feliz Boulevard...a stones throw from where I often golf. He then picked up an object and started to slash his wrists and punturing himself on his chest area. He survived and has been arrested. Some survivors are still not accounted for. I'm sure all radio stations in Los Angeles did the same thing, but I just happened to hear KROQ's plea for Type O Negative blood for some of the injured that were taken to over 15 differnet hospitals in the LA area. Note to Halloran: Reasons why I won't publish what you sent. I know it's open forum week...but...1. The graphic is too large, and when reduced no one would be able to read it. 2. Jesus Bush doesn't interest me, and frankly, although funny...enough of Bush already. 3. With Alfred E. on the upper left hand corner...it tells me it came from Mad Magazine. 4. Couldn't you come up with something original from you? From Don Glasgow of United Stations, NY...If it's not too late...in reply to "What Disc Jockey affected your life the most growing up? Todd Pettengill WPLJ NY. His comedy would embed itself in my head for years to come. As I recall Don, he was Scott Shannon's sidekick at one time, and he was also very prominent on WWF wrestling TV shows from the mid to late 90's. Yeah...he was a very funny guy from what I remember. Kind of on speed...and made great facial transitions.-JL This just in...former Florida resident, WKRL PD Scott Petibone and wife Lori enjoyed sledding in the snow this past weekend. But deep down inside he would would prefer to be on his surf board. Ahh...but he told me after a drive further north recently...he found the ocean with 2 foot waves and no wind. Guess it won't be hard to figure out as soon as Spring rolls around... guess where Scottso will be? The FCC sucks...and with all the things going down with broadcast companys trying to avoid further scrutiny...many more people will be out business, jobs, and having to reinvent themselves. According to sources AIR has shut their doors. January 26 Ellen DeGeneres Birthday's today: Paul Newman, Wayne Gretzky, Jules Feiffer, Vince Carter Angela Davis, Bob Uecker, General Douglas MacArthur 1880-1964 Boy Troy former WFNX Boston PD checked in today. "Nice to be back in touch...and nice to hear from you, man! Hope you are doing well...it appears that you are! And...thanks for sending Max (Tolkoff) back to the east coast...cuz you sure can't get enough Oingo Boingo!" Tami Shawn says "I loved your reply to my question. What the labels don't realize is us "good ones that got away" would gladly bring back our experience and knowledge at half the salary as long as the expense accounts are still around!" Ahh...the expense accounts. I never had one when I was a Vice President, at the original Album Network (pre-CC), but you hit on something Tam. I would bet that many entered labels for years to have that nifty little thing called an expense account. I'll also bet that many abused it too. Maybe another reason labels today are watching their coins so carefully. I gotta throw this in, 'cause I find it so amusing...labels telling me that they don't have a budget for me when I ask $300 for a banner that stays up on site for 3 months, and they can change it any time they want in that period of time. They take a dump after a $300 meal on the company, but can't afford that paltry sum for lots of eyeballs. -LOLOLOL Is FMQB a reliable source? What...they are...ok...then according to their website yesterday...WHFS is back! WHFS is back! Neat...what was once a great heritage Alt station...up till about 4 years ago...is now on WXYV Live 105.7 in Baltimore. In a nice gesture they will allow Lisa Worden to program nights Monday-Friday at 7PM through overnight and all weekend long. Isn't that a talk radio station?...they do have HOWARD STERN. The "reliable" source doesn't say who is on-air...but I'm sincerely happy for Lisa who due to high demand from "friends" and lest not forget the promise of another HFStival come Springtime. Only two weeks out of work, not bad. I hope what I wrote (scroll down) resinates some about communicating. Don't worry, I won't call or e-mail...you probably hate me...and that's ok. However, I wouldn't take bets on it...but right after that festival, just a hunch...unless the music is really wanted...WXYV will go back to what they were...whatever that was. By the way...the "new" WHFS debuted on January 21. You can also hear a different version of WHFS on the net at www.whfs.com Ok...I hear Steve Miller Band's "Take The Money And Run" in the background... I gotta go! January 25 Don Maynard Birthday's today: Gloria Naylor, Virginia Woolf 1882-1941 Congrats ...to WANZ/ Tuscaloosa APD/Productions Director Monk ... who just returned from a blissful honeymoon on Paradise Island in the Bahama's. He and wife Kelly were married on Elvis' birthday January 8. It is the first marriage for both. Open forum week continues: Tami Shawn from In Flight, Los Angeles has this burning question: Here's the million dollar question. Why is that so many wonderful and talented people (like me) are no longer employed in this wonderful business we used to call "records"? Well Tam...the simple answer would be that the industry likes young nubile persons that they can pay a ridiculous low amount of money, and make them work ungodly hours so they can say..."hey I work in the music biz"! But we can explore further if you'd like. The age and lower salary surely plays a part...but it is the big labels that got bloated years ago and spent money like there was no end to the golden fuel that drove the biz. They took radio out to big dinners, and lunches that if drinking was cut out...the cost wouldn't be that big...but add in the alcohal and you are talking a fortune. Add in flying people all over the country, hotel costs and other expenses...and then billing it to the artists... eventually would have an effect...right? This might be a blanket statement... but this business on both sides of the fence is full of more takers than givers! There has been so much taking from the bottom to the top, that it had to have an effect at one point. Good people like you, were just that...hard working and good. People like you were replaced in some cases by persons that somehow fell upwards. One off the top of my head would be Da. ....... It's a miracle this guy even had a gig. He had to be fucking someone who had connections. Oh... right...nepotism has something to with it also. I guess I could go on and on... but "good" people are prime targets to get shit upon in this industry. And...the ones doing the shitting, have huge assholes! I don't know...does that answer your question?- JL January 24 John Belushi 1949-1982 Birthday's today: Neil Diamond, Jools Holland, Gennifer Flowers, Warren Zevon 1947-2003 Goodnight Johnny: Yesterday's passing of Johnny Carson was very sad. The man did 30 years on the Tonight Show, leaving 13 years ago his legacy for Jay Leno to take on where Johnny left off. He died in Malibu at the age of 79. I thought NBC's quickly put together hour special last night on "Dateline" was pretty good, showing many funny and unusual moments from the show. Even though Steve Allen and Jack Paar preceded Carson...Carson was and will always be the greatest late night talk show ever. You can argue about Leno, and Letterman all you want...Carson was the BEST! So this week is OPEN FORUM for all your opinions or questions. Any topic. Gruvegirl Summer Los Angeles, asks "Boxers, briefs, or thongs???(wink wink) I can only answer for myself. Boxers around the house, and briefs when I go out of the house. Thongs-not me. The joke around my house is , Jeanette will say...put your boxers on, and let the boys out! Anyway...if any of you guys want to answer this...go right ahead. Joey Gusto PD WBER, Rochester wants to know who will be the next Modest Mouse? Joey, it's still kinda early in the year...but I would like to see maybe The Libertines or LCD Soundsystem at this moment. That could change though. Johnny D from Tempe AZ, says "Hey dude, What's Up? Say, you might want to consider a change in your audio when you hit the site. The guy says "I haven't seen you before", and I have been to the page several times. There might be a "welcome back for more" audio stream for those that have been there and keep the other greeting for those who hit it the first time. Just a thought. Johnny, when I recieved 5 different audio bits from SLUGGO, who I truly appreciate taking the time to do them...there are "welcome back"...etc. But as much as I wanted to loop all 5 at one time...I thought it would be better to do this one for a while due to so many new people coming aboard. They will change every couple of weeks. A suggestion...TURN down the sound dammit!-JL Power of the Internet: So...I write this innocent thing about a guy on this blog and all of a sudden this site is being hit by people from...are you ready for this...Slovenia, France, Canada, Austrailia, U.K., Austria, and Germany! No shit...and do you know how I know this? That funny liitle thing called AddFreeStats that you see on some pages tells me exactly what city, Country, time, page views, what pages, and if you are a new viewer or unique viewer (a regular). It also lets me know what browser you are using and how long you were on the sight. It's friggin' cool. I've been watching this since I installed it and I gotta tell you...it's totally facinating. At least I know where my traffic comes from. No wonder why the net kicks the shit out of trees (magazines). January 23 Birthday's today: Humphrey Bogart 1899-1957 Eric Metcalf, Erubiel Durazo, Alan Embree, Ernie Kovacs 1919-1962 Finishing up with Radio Influences: It's gotta be "Kid Leo" for me during the days of WMMS/Cleveland and "The Buzzard" back in the mid-70's and early 80's. Smooth voice, tid-bits of music info and best friends of Bruce Springsteen. He was too cool! As Joey Ramone sang, "Do you remember lying in bed with the covers pulled over your head, listening, radio playing so no one can see?" Yes I can remeber! Like yesterday! Buzz Fitzgerald Nights WBNS, Columbus OH Weasel from WHFS for turning me on to The Pixies. Dave Sanford Spectre Promotions, Los Angeles CA (Soon to be also in Oregon) RICK DEES was the first DJ I remember, hearing his countdown on Saturday or Sunday. But he never made me want to get into radio. After that it was PIRATE RADIO in Bailey, Colorado in '80-'82...then V89 College radio in Tallahassee, Florida. During High Scholl, the first real commercial radio station I really followed and spent time listening to and going to events/ promotions to get bumper stickers or concert tickets to see The Sisters Of Mercy/Daniel Dax/Souxsie Souix, or NIN was KJQN, Salt Lake City. I was a fan of MIKE SUMMERS, KERRY & BILL, and the rest of the original line-up back in '87-89...then the next thing you know, I'm making a name for myself spinning industrial music underground clubs in SLC, and then I get hired to do the same for KJQN in '90. Before that happened I was going off to Drama College to study acting along with creative writing and black and white photography...but I got sucked in by my passion for music and helping to break bands. So I guess if it wasn't for Mike Summers and KJQN... and Bessie The Milk Beast...there would be no Christopher The Minister. Christopher The Minister Left Of Center 26, Sirius Satellite, New York NY There's been a lot of people that who have inflenced me over the years, including JOHN DEBELLA (WMMR), TRISH MERELLO (WPST), and even JOHN PEEL(via BBC World Service)...but I'd have to give the most credit to what I do to Lee Paris on Philadelphia's WIFI "I-92" (he also did stints at WXPN and WMMR). At the time WIFI was doing Rick Carroll's "Rock of the 80's" format. PARIS was Music Director and hosted nights on "I-92". The year was 1983, when WIFI dumped CHR for Modern Rock. I was already buying every New Wave and Punk record I could get my hands on...and I was excited to be hearing my kind of music on commercial radio. LEE PARIS was a major champion of of exciting new (and not so new) music that wasn't getting airplay anywhere else. Years earlier at WXPN, while hosting a program... PARIS stated "Very very little of this new kind of music is being played. We are very upset by that. This program should not exist. It only exists because other radio stations are not doing a proper job." PARIS had a very upbeat delivery...you could hear his enthusiasm for what he was playing. WIFI had a Top 40 feel, jocks talking up intros, keeping it tight, etc. LEE also managed some of the clubs in the city, wrote local newspaper articles on music, ran his own record label, and played a student in the movie "Rock and Roll High School". I never met him, I was just a listener. He died way too young in 1986. He had bouts with depression. I spoke to someone that used to know him who guessed that he was unhappy with his career at the time and decided to commit suicide. No one really knows for sure what happened, but it involved a fatal mix of sedatives and alcohol. Sometimes I wonder what Lee would have thought of the alternative format by the early 90's, or even today? Scott Lowe B104, Allentown PA The disc jockey who affected my life the most would have to be Dave Herman, WNEW, New York. Of course I grew up listening to SCOTTSO, ALLISON STEELE, and even "COUSIN" BRUCIE. But DAVE HERMAN was the DJ that actually helped me get into the business. When I started High School, I used to call and write letters to Dave all the time to the point that I was pain in his ass. I guess I was one of those kids that they referred to at the station as a groupie or a stalker. I guess you could say that I knd of grew on Dave. I knew I wanted to get into radio and I began asking him how to get into the business. He gave me great advice about getting a good education, going to College with a good staion and interning wherever I could. Well ...I followed his advice to the letter and eventually landed my first real gig at WLIR. Years had passed since I bugged ol' Dave. Fast forward to 1985. I was spinning every Friday night at Studio 54 as part of an ongoing 'LIR promotion playing "New Wave" dance records, a very successful night. In August, Studio 54 threw me a huge birthday party and one of the guests in attendance was none other than DAVE HERMAN! He had no idea who I was. I went over to him and introduced myself and he told me that he was a fan and listened to me on WLIR all the time. I then told him the story about the little shit head that bugged him all the time for advice, and that shit was me. He was flabbergasted and said "THAT WAS YOU??? Holy shit! That's so funny." We had a few drinks together and talked for quite a while. This time, he wasn't trying to give me the brush off. Things had come full circle. Willobee Still looking for a gig, hire me!, Hartford CT January 22 George Foreman Birthday's today: John Hurt, Graham Kerr, Tyrone Power Jr., D.W. Griffith 1875-1948 More radio stories: I'd have to say my biggest influence was George Gmaric in Dallas at KDGE in the late 80's/early 90's. George's encyclopedic knowledge of music really drove me toward melding my love for music and obscure facts into a career selection. I spent countless amounts of my life trying to answer "Trivia From Hell"...and proudly did so several times. George's love for Texas music also had an effect on my life, introducing me to countless bands from Dallas, one of which resulted in me meeting one of my good friends who remains so to this day. Mark Rudkin Houston TX Um...what was the question? I think for me because I am just a RADIO FAN. I have always recorded shows (including spots/club breaks) in every market I have vacationed in since I was a child so that I could feel like I LIVED there instead of just visiting. I always lived for the Sunday/Saturday morning count- downs...Casey Kasem, Rick Dees, etc. The original ARTISTS that made you feel like you were really part of something bigger. I know these guys are more commercial, but I also used to love hearing what ever random I could find in Manhattan...those DJ's diggin'/scraping for content and there are just people who 'make it their own' and don't ask for permission. I wish I could remember all their names. People used to call me and say "Hey, listen to this..." it would be when they recorded ME and found the tapes (commercials and all). I hope in 10 years when you do this survey again someone can say I influenced someone to be bigger then their city will allow. PS...I also listened to Japanese and Spanish radio in NYC which was GREAT when you have a buzz but I can't spell their names...or... er...understand their names. Church of ROCK N' ROLL!!! Dick Clark...get better soon!!!!! You are my real father I just found out! Summer James Gruvegirl, Film and TV actress, Voiceovers, Los Angeles CA There are three that bent my mind here on those hot desert nights. First there was Dave Steere "The Wild Child" on KPHO with his Coca-Cola Dance Party every night in the late 50's. I still have my Dave Steere fan club card. Then there was Tony Evans on KRIZ who just seemed so outragious at the time. You just never knew what he would say next. And of course beaming North from Mexico, the amazing Wolfman Jack on XERB "Mind Blowers Radio over Los Angeles!" "Do you have your clothes on baby?" John Dixon (aka Johnny D) Phoenix music legend, Tempe, AZ I was a teenager growing up in Richmond, VA in the sixties. The Top 40 station was WLEE...but the other station that I listened to was the "Soul" station WANT. The afternoon jock was Mr. C...He used to have a promo that went something like this ..."Mr. C's got a bucket of soul. What's he gonna do with it? He's gonna pour it on us!" Mr. C poured buckets and buckets of soul on me and it turned me on to so much great music. He was cool in an ultra conservative time and city. I remember listening to him like it was yesterday...for memories! PS: and where else could you hear ads for Scuppernong wine? Steve Jones Brash Music, Atlanta GA Easy. Rodney Bingenheimer. I grew up in LA and he played "the shit", once KROQ started catering to a "broader audience". (Sigh) My friends and I would all conference each other and put in our tapes and talk all during the show. Stuff we dug...stuff we didn't like...what we liked from the week before and our ability (or inability in most cases) to find it. Kids today have it so easy! They can type in the band on the web and find them somehow. Back then if Goody or Tower didn't "got it", we were screwed. Once we could drive, we found Melrose Avenue and found a lot of these gems...but up until we were 16 we'd play these poor warped tapes over and over. I still have a lot of these tapes and a 1989 KROQ New Years countdown I listen to occasionally. Anyhow...Rodney, if you're reading this: THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING. From "This Could Be The Night" to "Oh Teenage Woman" to the Inflatable Boy Clams "Skeleton's"...we loved every minute! I truly believe his show is why I'm so passionate about Specialty shows to this day (and have been promoting to them for over 8 years). The music fans are listening. Liz Koch Notorious Promotions, Queens NY I'm sure you can guess which disc jockey affected my life the most growing up. It's none other than the great Jonathan L. If it wasn't for my Mom winning all the time on your show, you guys probably never would have met. Man...that brings back memories. Your voice and knowledge soothed the radio waves like a fresh diaper on my new born son, your grandson. Hope you like the simile. Rueben Your son, Mesa AZ January 21 Geena Davis Birthday's today: Jack Nicklaus, Hakeem Olajuwon, Rusty Greer, Benny Hill 1925-1992 More radio stories: You're getting 2 out of me, even though there are so many great ones and unsung heroes of radio. The first one would have to be a guy named Chip Beef. He worked at a college station where I was growing up in Northern Illinois. He was from NYC and played all those great NY bands...Ramones, Blondie, Television, Patti Smith. I was 13 when he played these records. In 1979 he blew me away. Ended up getting on my bike, and asking to sweep the floors of the radio station. On the commercial side... Steve Dahl in Chicago made me realize you didn't have to have a "radio" voice to be on the radio. he is the guy who blew up all the disco records at Comisky Park and made the White Sox forfeit a game. Marc Alghini Come ON! Management, NYC NY Todd Wallace, KRIZ radio , and Kaaren Hall from "The Storm" (both in Phoenix) And, all the jocks on KDKB in the 70's. Jackie Selby Mornings KOOL-105, Denver CO Growing up in the NYC market, we were fortunate to have an amazing talent pool to listen to. I'd listen to many, but for me Scott Muni (WMCA, WABC, WNEW-FM), CHUCK Leonard (WABC), WILLIAM B.WILLIAMS (WNEW-AM), and DENNIS ELSAS (WNEW-FM)...all in New York City...were my jock choices in the late 60's and throughout the 70's. On the College radio front, DANIEL MARTIN CUNI (WSOU- South Orange NJ), and Neal Adams (WFDU-Teaneck NJ) kept me entertained in the early 80's. Jerry Rubino The CMJ Network, WCHR-FM, New Jersey/New York Rodney on the 'ROQ...Rodney Bingenheimer. He was the only DJ playing music that I listened to as a kid. All the local LA punk like The Adolecents and T.S.O.L., and music from the whole Paisley Underground like Three "O Clock and Rain Parade. Long live Rodney! Sean Boy Nitro Records, Orange County CA J.J. "The Hitman" McKay the legendary Eastern shore of Maryland jock and radio god, gave me my first chance on air (overnights)...what the hell was he thinking? And if you remember, I think he made the cover of Hitmakers Magazine back in the day (*I'm sorry Frank...so did I-lol). "SLICK" CHRIS KELLY-legendary night guy on the Eastern shore of Maryland, the man resonsible for teaching me selector and shit-LOL... BRIAN K. HALL, morning side kick to the "Hitman" for years. I think he is still working on the Eastern shore of Delaware. There ya go... the 3 that I hope taught me everything I need to know to stay afloat in this biz. Anyone who might know what the 3 are up to...hit me up at 540-374-5516. Frank Wells APD/MD WYSK 99.3, Fredericksburg VA In all my years listening to radio...I have yet to find a DJ that has affected me. No one has been able to be knowledgable about the music without being an over hyped DJ about some nonsense. Joey Gusto PD WBER, Rochester NY January 20 Bill Maher Birthday's today: Malcolm McLaren, Skeet Ulrich, Patricia O' Neal, Ozzie Gullen Brian Giles, Ron Harper, George Burns 1896-1996 More great stories: Jim Ladd was by far the most influential DJ of my childhood. He was on the "Mighty Met"...KMET in LA. Was and still is the best freeform jock ever...in my humble opinion! Anne Rae Fitzgerald PD WLRS 105.1, Louisville KY There was a guy at 96 WSTO in Evansville IN. Don't know where he's at or what he's up to, but his name was FAST EDDIE. After hearing him, I knew I wanted to be in radio. He just had such a command of the airwaves and owned the market. He was awesome! Later on, I had mad respect for my PD, LEE DANIELS at WJBX in Ft. Myers. I learned more from that guy than anybody. Great air talent...he's good and he knows it. Unfortunately, not on the air anymore. Lance Hale PD WRQC, Ft. Myers FL I didn't know how much I loved radio until I met Jamie Karr. I always loved all types of music and listened to the radio all the time. When I went to Amarillo College I was interested in TV production. I had to take a radio class as part of the degree. I got involved with KACV, the AC radio station as a student and worked at a few commercial stations in town. When Jamie left KACV I ended up replacing him as program director of the station. I can honestly say I wouldn't be doing this If I had not met Jamey. Marcie Lane-Robinson PD KACV, Amarillo TX My two biggest influences when I was growing up were Alex Bennett and Big Rick Stuart, when they were on the Quake in San Francisco in the early 80's. They just totally sounded like they were having fun by just being themselves, and I got my first radio break by calling in on Alex's show and doing the legal ID live. That's a big deal when you're a kid! Spud Operations Director KITS Live 105, San Francisco CA For me it was crazy Dave Otto from KOPA (Phoenix), JONATHAN BRANDMEIR KZZP in the early 80's, CURTISS JOHNSON and J DAVID HOLMES from the legendary KUPD in the mid-80's. KDKB's BILL ANDRES and JOHN GEISE in the 70's. As well as BILL HEYWOOD at KOY 55AM. Foley MD KMRQ-96.7 "The Rock Station", Modesto/Stockton CA I grew up on the West Coast of Canada and used to listen to KPLZ from Seattle... so I would understand if nobody knew my inflence...Mark Allen. He used to be the Music Director/Evening guy for what I thought was the best Top 40 station around in the 80's. Mark obviously did his show prep and was the epitimy of what an on air personality should be (hard to find these days...). Lot's of phoners, talked to others as if they were human beings with a lot of self-depricating humor. Very entertaining! I have an air-check I play fro all the youngsters I encounter today who need a sample of what an air-shift should be. Aside from that, loved the music they played. Don Mitchell CFNY 102.1 "The Edge", Toronto CA January 19 Janis Joplin 1943-1970 Birthday's today: Dolly Parton, Tippi Hedren, Richard Lester, Junior Seau Paul Rodriguez, Tyrone Wheatley, Edgar Alan Poe 1809-1849 My favorite DJ was Doug Podell, now on WRIF...but back in the 80's he was on WLLZ. You could tell that he was genuinely "into" the music...totally living the the lifestyle. His passion about cool new bands was infectious. Plus, he really put the spotlight on some outstanding local talent. Between playing their music, and talking up their gigs at local clubs, some of these bands would end up drawing over 2,000 people at a show!!!! I have great memories of the days, and Doug Podell was definatley a big part of that. Carol Stone MD WJXQ/Q106, Lansing MI Kid Marconi at KRQQ in Tucson AZ. I was a freshman in High School, and he had just graduated from my High School. I knew if that geek could get a gig so could I. He was fired shorlty after. That should have told me what this business is all about. Hill Jordan Music Promotions Director KTCL/Channel 93.3, Denver CO For me, I really didn't have a DJ that I loved and want me to do radio. For me it a station...99X, Atlanta. I was in Junior High when it flipped from Power 99 to 99X. I didn't have a particular style of music I loved more than the other until I heard that station.The music was something I had never heard before. They had great jocks, but the station wasn't about them, it was about us...the listener, and exposing us to this whole new world of of Alternative. It's the one time in my life I can really recall not wanting to turn the station because I thought I was going to miss a great new song. I will say that my Senior year in High School, I called up JIMMY (from Barnes, Leslie and Jimmy) and he let me come up one morning and sit through the whole morning show. LESLIE FRAM talked to me the most that morning about radio. They didn't sugar coat it for me. After that visit, I knew what I wanted to do. Loving that station the way I used to, helps me with my station today. If I can get my listeners half as passionate as I was...we'll win. BJ Kinard PD WFHX, Savannah GA I would have to say Sean Boy Walton on X96. Every night I would stay up late and listen to Sean Boy on his All-Request Buffet. He would play things everyone I knew listened to when no one else would. He was the only one to play any good Punk-old or new. The cool thing about Sean is he would always listen and chit chat about music when ya called. These days I work the shift he used to have, which is odd because he now calls me about Nitro records. Oh how them tables do turn. Corey O' Brien On-air/Assistant MD KXRK-X96 Salt Lake City UT Murray The K...N.Y.C. B-a za-bay baby! Robert Allen Sha La Music, New Jersey Growing up in Phoenix, the only station in town (for me) was 98 KUPD with Dave Pratt and the Red Radio Morning Show. Pratt was the first jock I know of to not just assemble a TON of characters for the morning show...he literally took people off the streets and made them regular guests. He grabbed a guy who showed up at a local show wearing a Cincinnati Red Uniform, put him on the show, called him "Mr. Baseball". He made characters out of his newsgirl, and the "Sex Machine Band" that played station gigs with him. And, he was the NICEST guy every time I ran into him.Don't know the exact number but he had that show ranked WAY high for over 20 years. When I moved to LA it was all about DOUG THE SLUG, SLUGGO, THE SLUG-MONSTROSITY, etc. and KROQ. The most irreverent, original, silly, and most FUN jock I've ever heard. I always felt like he was in the room with me...how many jocks can you say that about? If he reads this, ask him if he remembers the "Poo Shovelling" incident? Rubin APD, Morning Jock, KTCL/93.3, Denver CO I too grew up in Brooklyn and was influenced by the great NY jocks. I used to wait on line at 4AM for all the great Murray The K holiday shows at Brooklyn's Fox Theatre. 15 acts in two hours (WOW). I still have the programs. The staff's at WABC...COUSIN BRUCIE...and WMCA's "Good Guys"....SCOTT MUNI, were legendary. But I have to say that the staff at WNEW...SCOTT, ROSCOE, JONATHAN, ALLISON, PETE, etc. were the most informative and fun people I have ever been entertained by. Doing local promotion in NY was both humbling and rewarding. When I look at all my "industry" pictures, I swear SCOTT was in at least half of them. He certainly was my mentor, good friend, and inluenced me the most. Stu Cohen Three King Records, Los Angeles CA I was born in 1965. Music and radio have been important to me for as long as I can remember. The first DJ's to have an impact on me wawere DAVE LA RUSSA and Bob Cook (RIP) from the long gone 92.9 KWFM, Tucson AZ. Bob had a great style and humor about him. Dave had a show in the late 70's called "Anything That's Rock n' Roll" which introduced me to a world of "obscure" artists like The Talking Heads, Devo, The Ramones, The B-52's, Adam & The Ants and the Police. (Well- these were obscure bands for Tucson radio!) A few years later, for some reason I was able to recieve a station out of Apache Junction, AZ called "The Storm" KSTM. They had a show called "Afterhours with JOHNNY D.", which was very good. I must say however, the man who influenced me the most through the radio is the host of this here web site...JONATHAN L. The debut of his "Virgin Vinyl" show in the early 80's brought life and diversity back into Tucson radio which had somehow disolved into a stagnent pond of arena rock and sappy pop. He would also play and support a great deal of Arizona bands which at that point had all but ignored by local radio. I would record every Sunday night's show and listen to those tapes over and over throughout the week. Jonathan was then, and remains to this day, a true friend. Chris Wagganer Film Maker, Los Angeles CA January 18 Birthday's today: Kevin Costner, Jane Horrocks, Curt Flood, Mark Messier Jimmy O' Neill. When the former KRLA deejay and host of ABC-TV's Shindig landed in Omaha, where I heard him growing up in the 70's, it was obvious that something was terribly wrong. Insiders told me...and he later admitted in a People magazine interview...that alcoholism had tormented his career. This taught me early on that making it to the top in broadcasting comes with no assurance of staying there. Dave Beasing Jacobs Media, Los Angeles CA For me it was Dan Ingram at WABC in New York. At the time, WABC was the best pop station on the planet. Their on-air line-up was stellar: HARRY HARRISON, COUSIN BRUCIE, RON LUNDY, DAN INGRAM, and GEORGE MICHAEL. Dan, however stood out from the rest. He inspired me to get into radio in the first place. I was lucky enough to meet him and got to sit in on his show once. I was hooked after that. He was smooth, funny and very knowledgeble. He was exciting to listen to. WABC was a little difficult to get in on my car radio in my hometown in south- eastern Connecticut...but was worth it. I miss those days. Steven Strick APD/MD WBCN, Boston MA Murray The K. He gave me my first job in the business and from him I learned so much. He died way too young...60. There rarely is a day that goes by that something he showed me or explained does not come into play. He was the consumate showbiz character and he knew how to make everything and everyone feel like a star. SCOTT MUNI continued the tradition and when I sought a fulltime gig, he was the guy who showed me the ropes and the correct way of dealing with radio from a record company perspective. Steve Leeds Consumate promotion person, New Jersey/NY Loved hearing Allison Steele. What a voice and got turned onto so much great music...first introduction to Kiss. And, SCOTT MUNI was the man. When it came down to it he seemed to know it all and was always dead on. I was very impressed that all of my heroes would come on his show and you can hear how much they loved this cat. That had a huge impact on me at 5-6 years old. Long live SCOTTSO, and ALLISON. Keith Roth Sirius Satellite and Frankenstein 3000, New York NY Dr. Johnny Fever...WKRP, Cincinnati OH. Jack DeVoss MD WWCD-CD101, Columbus OH A Great question. Growing up in Houston, I had a chance to listen to some amazing talent. From MOBY to STEVENS and PRUETT to BOOMER. I think the one that stands out the most for me is John Lander. I became a radio geek around the age of 12 or 13 and John Lander and the Q Morning Zoo was the biggest morning show in town. I was into Top 40 back then, thank god I am not today. Anyway, he had that energy, that vibe, that appeal that was just so amazing to listen to. He is now in Boston. Johnny Maze PD WRXW, Jackson MS The guy that made me want to get into radio was Jim Ladd. Jim did 10PM to 2AM on KMET in Los Angeles in the early to mid 70's. I was living in San Diego going to school, but you could get KMET that far down the coast at night. Jim would do the greatest sets of music. That was back when jocks had that sort of freedom...or at least it appeared that way to my teenage ears. Jim had such a great rapport with all the artists as well. And being on KMET in LA, he got everyone stopping by to talk and play DJ with him. The Stones, Clapton, Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Pink Floyd, as well as obscure bands like Van Halen and The Clash...well they were obscure at the time. I can't tell you the countless nights I spent in the dark in my room with headphones on listening to to Jim weave amazing stories in with the music he was playing. Years later, when I was programming KUPD in Phoenix, I met and got to know Jim. He was on the Radio KAOS tour with Roger Waters, playing DJ in the concert/ stage production. I can't tell you I was more excited about meeting and interviewing ...Jim or Roger Waters! Curtiss Johnson OM, Station Manager KWOD/KSEG, Sacramento CA January 17-Today is MARTIN LUTHER KING DAY Andy Kaufaman 1949-1984 Birthday's today: Jim Carrey, Mick Taylor, James Earl Jones, Muhammad Ali, Don Zimmer,Jeremy Roenick, Chili Davis, Benjamin Franklyn 1706-1790 Question of the week: What Disc Jockey affected your life the most growing up? Who is it and what city? As a young metalhead in New York, I listened to a lot of college radio growing up ...Seton Hall's WSOU and Long Island University's WCWP...turned me on to most of the heavy stuff I grew up loving. The jock I tuned into every weekend was WBAB, Long Island's Fingers. He had a show called "Fingers Metal Shop", that RULED! Living in Southern Westchester, though, it was tough to get the station tuned in... I had to hang my stereo antenna out the bedroom window to hear the show! Good times. Mike Savage anrworld.com, Beverly Hills CA I have to be honest...none. It was always the music that blew my mind...not the nob behind the microphone (myself included). To work in music and not have to wear pantyhose? Every girls dream. Kat Corbett (nob) KROQ, Los Angeles CA I never paid much attention to DJ's when I was really young, (under 6). My parents are huge music fans, so I had my own record collection in addition to theirs. We moved to often to get to know anyone (military) but then we moved to England (stayed for 5 years) and I became aquainted with the sort of all-inclusive programming of BBC2. My mom would leave it on almost all day. You would hear news, comedy, etc..., but most importantly you would hear all kinds of music, not the narrowly focused targeted bland crap of American radio. So you'd turn it on... hear Kate Bush, Motorhead, and Glen Campbell all in the same set...sure...some of it was awful, but at least it was interesting. The DJ I remember most was Terry Wogan...pleasant Irish accent and funny...not in an obnoxious way, but sly and intelligent. Probably now I would find his humoor dated, but now that I think of it, I'll just tune in on the web and listen and see. Thanks for reminding me. I'm a DJ now myself...maybe I could learn something from him. Jessica "Tiny DJ" Stevens PD/MD WRIR Indie Radio, Richmond VA My biggest inflence was Steve Ocean...CK101, Cocoa Beach, Florida. This was in the late 70's, and I was just a kid. He was a bit of a madman on the air...and I became a huge fan of the station. My mom took me to visit the station eventually, as my obsession grew to what was probably aggravating heights. He and the other DJ's (they were ALL there at the same time!!) didn't have to be so nice to a 5th grade kid. they loaded me up with albums, and gave me the complete tour. I'll never forget it. Steve is still on the air too. The last I heard was Auburn, Alabama at "The Tiger" (WTGZ). Thanks Steve... you rock, man! Alan Ayo APD KEDG, Dallas TX Easy...it was the late Scott Muni, who I met while in college (New York City) in the early 60's. His smooth delivery was an inspiration to announcer/jocks all across the Northeast. He had a friendly air about him, that made him a friend of the listener rather than the usual packaged voice the announce TO th public. He along with PETER TRIPP (The Curlyheaded Kid in the Third Row), defined my youth. Kevin Childs (The Big KC) KRCK 97.7, Palm Desert CA I got into radio because I love music. I always have. One disc Jockey I admired growing up was Al Hofer, formely of KSHE 95 St. Louis. He possessed everything a good jock should have, plus he was a true music expert. Gina Juliano Still stuck in Cincinnati...but hey...I'm open for any ideas. January 16 Ronnie Milsap Birthday's today: Kate Moss, Marilyn Horne, Dr. Laura (Schlesinger), Gabriel Reese Ethel Merman 1909-1984, Dizzy Dean 1911-1974, Albert Pujols, Roy Jones Jr. More breaking News from LALA Land: .....insert simulated morse code telegraph sounds here...de ded dee de deede. To prove how serious and how much Ben Affleck can't get enough of Jennifer Garner, he bought a 4.5 million dollar home in HER neighboorhood in Brentwood...TO SHOW SERIOUS THE RELATIONSHIP IS? It sounds LIKE CELEBRITY STALKING...uh...BY THE CELEBRITY!!! ...Bringing you the insiders insisting inside information from the inside...from your onsight reporter here in Hollywood...it's SUMMER...LIVE AND ON THE STREETS! It just hit me, as I sit here, cranking the tunes for the Jersey shore and south Jersey... Deep Purple's "Highway Star" with Van Halen's "Panama...the next obvious choice to rip up the race course. Could the Circle Jerks cover of Garland Jeffrey's "Wild In The Street" be next? (In my mind at least) Jerry Rubino CMJ/WCHR Ocean/Monmouth NJ IT'S NEVER TOO LATE: Good friend...Rock Dude, Kenny Laguna (Tommy James & The Shondells, and manager of Joan Jett) has assembled his "World's Greatest Band" Keyboards: Kenny Laguna Bass: Kasim Sultan Guitar/vocals: Joan Jett Lead Guitar: Gel Bacca (The Eyeliners) Drums: Tommy Price. Thanks Kenny. January 15 Julian Cope Birthday's today: Don (Captain Beefheart) Van Vliet, Margeret O'Brien, Bobby Grich Delino DeShields, MARTIN LUTHER KING 1929-1968 Kevin Cole, the merry old soul, who some might remember programmed one of the great alternative stations of the past, KREV...better know as Rev 105, Minneapolis announced yesterday, beginning next week he will be doing 2-6 afternoons. He is also the Director of Programming of KXEP 90.3 Seattle and 91.7 Tacoma/Olympia. The station is an NPR affiliate. You can bother him on his direct line at 206-520-5837. Kev is good on e-mail...not so good on the phone..but hey...leave messages and if...you do get a return call...lol...tell him I said to bother him. He is a dear friend after all. If you missed the season premiere of Carnivale...catch it on rerun...but do not miss it this Sunday night on HBO. Man...o...man...it is the most macabre show on television. The premiere episode was astounding, mysterious, and so dark...it had me completely glued to the set. I never missed an episode last year...but I will not shell out 80 bucks for the box set. Has anyone listened to Frickin' A reviving Rick Springfield's "Jessie's Girl" ? It's great! Get a hold of Margaret LoCicero at locicero@sbcglobal.net for a copy if you don't have one...or can't find it in your office. January 14 Andy Rooney Birthday's today: Steven Soderberg, Maureen Dowd, Julian Bond, Gene Washington Jack Errol Thompson BORN JANUARY 7 Here he is...handsome boy! Momma Violet is doing fine...and proud papa Charles (Frank Black) Thompson is beaming about his first child. Pixies founder is relaxing up in Oregon after his grueling touring with bandmates on their reunion tour. When I spoke with Charles last night, he said he is coming to LA to see a movie producer about his role in "Zodiac Killer". How cool is that. Acting in his future. Finishing this weeks question...last of NASCAR, Hung, and Ashlee: Drowning Pool's "Bodies". That gets me going on the roads locally. Road rage I think they call it-lol. Ashlee stays and William drowns. Frank Wells PD WYSK 99.3, Fredericksberg VA Throw them both away and catch a ride on that sexy mermaid waiting on the shore. Patrick Best Lead singer/guitar Lived Like Murder, Myrtle Beach FL "Dirty Deed Done Gone Cheap" by AC/DC. I would keep neither and toss them both in the ocean...the music in my head would far surpass any song on either of those CD's. Steve Jones Brash Music, Atlanta GA My song would be "Jesus Built My Hotrod" by Ministry. I keep Mr. Hung...we sing in the same key-lol. Leave Ashlee on the Island with me, maybe her sister would come and rescue her and I'd get both. Hell...mom ain't bad either ...a 4-way family affair! YES! Wayne Elam Toyota, Phoenix AZ I absolutely HATE NASCAR, so I cannot see myself in that situation. But my answer to the second question...I wouldn't throw either of the CD's in the ocean. I would first use the liner notes from each as toilet paper. Then, I would use the plastic CD cases as tools for the building of my island lounge. And third, I would keep both CD's and use them as emergancy reflector shields to contact search planes, all while humming and singing old Ramones tunes to myself! Buzz Fitzgerald Nights, WBNS 97.1, Columbus OH The training montage from "Rocky IV". Ashlee Simpson-keep. William Hung-toss. Joey Gusto PD WBER, Rochester NY I would have either Mighty Mighty Bosstones "Awfully Quiet", Bassment Jaxx "Red Alert", Digital Underground "Humpty Dance", or Operation Ivy "Sound System" to rev me up. I'd keep the William Hung. Why? Easy...he has a soul and doesn't claim to be anything he's not. If you'll recall even he admitted "I have no formal training" ...though honestly with those two choices...I might prefer the sound of silence (thank S&G) Liz Koch Notorius Promotion, Queens NY January 13 Orlando Bloom Birthday's today: Graham "Suggs" McPherson, Kevin Mitchell, Sophie Tucker 1884-1966 More from Hung, NASCAR, and Ashlee: Are you kidding me? Cake "The Distance", Green Day "Nice Guys Finish Last"... frankly and seriously...I watch a NASCAR race and I always hear Helmet "Unsung" in my head...ALWAYS! Scott Petibone PD WKRL, Syracuse NY Pearl Jam "Go"...that song does it for me that way. ROCKS! No question...Ashlee Simpson. Throw William in the ocean. William, though maybe more entertaining... Ashlee would be the "gift" that keeps on giving. I don't mind a couple of the songs, but also it allows some "romantic" times "with myself" with my eyes closed. Polychronopolis MD Waitt Radio Network, Omaha NE First to revving my engine...everybody is going to say Disturbed because they are angry and we love them, but I am going to reach for Pantera (digadigadighh...old skool), and most of the stuff from Crazytown's first album, except for "Butterfly"... the other stuff still excites me when hitting the streets. As for the island thing with Ashlee Simpson...I would keep the artist that made me laugh the most...uh well... they both make me laugh...but let's just say William Hung stands for determination, and triumph with perserverence...means somebody is going to notice. Ashlee's music makes money... however it is too angry for me...she is sooo tough like Avril. Oooooh, William Hung makes me say "ROCK ON"...kick ass...shut up! Open your eyes! HAHA...thanks. Summer James Gruvegirl, TV and Film actress, voiceovers, Los Angeles CA NASCAR theme song? "The Sore Thumb" by LA's 400 Blows (hear it at) I think I would keep the William Hung CD...it seems like it would at least be good for a laugh...but from what I've heard, Ashlee's music would make me want to kill myself. However...I would keep Ashlee's CD packagaing in case I needed some J/O material. Chris Wagganer Film Editor, Hollywood CA "Kickstart My Heart" by Motley Crue. Ashlee Simpson...at least I can J/O to the cover. Victor Lentini Universal Records, Chicago IL "Born To Be Wild" (Steppenwolf) of course! Toss either CD in the ocean...use the other as a shovel, and/or a mirror to attract rescuers. Johnny Dixon aka Johnny D Arizona music legend, Tempe AZ January 12 Howard "King Of All Media" Stern Birthday's today: Kirstie Alley, Rush Limbaugh, Joe Frazier, Henny Youngman 1906-1998 NEWS FLASH!!! From their press release...Infinity Broadcasting announced today the launch of a new Spanish-language radio station in Washington DC. "El Zol" 99.1 WHFS-FM will play a current blend of Caribbean American dance music and is targeting adults 25-54. It launched at noon. This is HUGE news as one of the alternative formats longest running stations flips. With KHRO doing something similar a few weeks back, it does not have the impact of this. That was El Paso and frankly could never have the impact of this. This is huge and will spur quite a bit of nostagia. Great station years ago. Retribution for Benjamin and Waugh? Maybe. I've known Lisa Worden for many years, even before her decade of being KROQ's music director. I like her...but if this burns a bridge...and I can't imagine it would...there hasn't been one ever since she set foot on DC soil. When she was a record promotion person for RCA and EMI, she was delightful. At KROQ, she wasoff-air...actually never was on-air in her entire career. I would see her at many shows, because that was part of her gig...selector and speaking with label people during the day and at night she had to be the face of the station, aside from Gene Sandbloom who also was in the same position. So I'll say what many want to say. I've already been inundated with calls and IM's this morning. They all say the same thing...but I won't be as mean spirited. I'll just say it the way it is. She has been speaking to a very small circle of people since she was sent off to "raise" WHFS's ratings. She has never once responded to any of my calls or e-mails, but I really didn't expect her to. I wasn't the only one...so it never bothered me. But those of you who know me...it's "humble pie" time for Lisa and what's her name...Libby, another non-communicative person. I do feel bad for Pat Ferrise, who I like a lot and is somewhat communicative (Had to mention that). Listen, almost everyone of us are going to be out of work at one time or another. Lisa, I don't know if you will even see this...but from all the feedback I've been getting, and this is day one of the rest of your life...you are in trouble my dear...unless Mr. Weatherbee rescues you...see many don't really care about what happened to you. They care about the station...but unfortunately...NOT YOU. I am not being mean spirited...because I always care when someone is out of work... I just need to point this out...because there are a number of Lisa's out there, both in radio and at labels that for some reason will not be open to communication...and one day WILL be out on the beach, and very few will care. A sad commentary isn't it? Good luck Lisa, and... what's her name? Pat...we all wish you well. This whole biz is based upon relationships that can turn into real ...or "real" friendships. Rememeber that. According to sources, the second to last song was R.E.M. "Gardening At Night", cuz that's what 'HFS signed on with...and the last song was Jeff Buckley "Last Goodbye". Ashlee or Hung continues, as well as NASCAR song: My NASCAR song: "Headhunter" by Front 242. On the Island I'll keep William Hung... he's covering songs, so at least the songs are better than Ashlee Simpson's. Dave Lombardi Astralwerks Records, New York NY The NASCAR question...Johnny Cash "When The Man Comes Around". All the others would be head banging while I'm calmly and collectively preparing to go revelations on their ass! Marty Oehlhof MD/Nights KDJE, Little Rock AR Off the top of my head...Big Black "Racer X". I think I'd rather sing to myself. Otherwise, I'd have to go with Ashlee Simpson. Whether or not she can sing in real life, you have to admit the end result of the album and the production value is good. Scott Lowe B104, Allentown PA (Still looking for a gig also) The second question is pure evil. Yuck to both of them. I would throw the both of them in the ocean. Courtney Proffit Tempe AZ "Fuel" by Metallica. Absolutely William Hung gets tossed in the ocean. Whatever we think of Ashlee Simpson...at least they make her sound good on the album. I still really like "Pieces Of Me", even if I think she's a twit! Austin Davis PD WUBZ, State College PA My theme song for the INDY 500 is "Reason Is Treason", track 3 on the new Kasabian album. The whole album rules but thgis is a great driving song. (* I wouldn't know...RCA doesn't send me any music...so I have no idea what you are talking about.;-lol-JL) I'd toss the William Hung CD...at least Ashlee Simpson is fun to look at (so please make sure it's not the pictureless CD-pro!) Spud Operations Director KITS (Live 105) San Francisco CA January 11 Birthday's today: Naomi Judd, Darryl Dawkins, Chris Ford, Alexander Hamilton 1755-1804 Old friend checking in: At 8:30 PM EST, I get a call from an old friend who is back in radio. Calling me in his underwear from home was Kerry Gray. He has returned to radio as PD of WEDG Buffalo. He and wife Lorraine and 5-year old Declan have been in a lot of cities over the years. But Buffalo has been home base most of those years...coming and going. One thing about Kerry I've always enjoyed is his sense of humor. He doesn't take himself too seriously...but when it come to programming he does. He wants all of you to know that his concentration for the station is 25-34 Mainstream Active Rock. The hopeless Elvis Costello fan (so is Lorraine and the name Declan pretty much explains it all) when he called last night, said he was just getting himself in order, but would love to hear from you. His direct line is 716-888-9769, or you can e-mail him at kerry.gray@citcomm.com Great to have you back 'ol boy. More on NASCAR, Ashlee, and Hung: I will use both CD's-reflecting the sun to blind me, 'cause if I'm screaming in pain from losing my eyesight, I won't remember that all I have to listen to is awful music. Jim McGuinn PD WPLY/Y100 Philadelphia PA Mr. Big "Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy" in response to the NASCAR question. I have to say Ashlee Simpson stays...Hung is in the drink. The Simpson CD is at least good for whackin' material. HEY...I'm lost on an island alone! Matt Foley MD KMRQ/96-7 "The Rock Station", Modesto CA Gotta be "Panama" from Van Halen. Nothing like a little David Lee and the sound of an engine revving to impress the chicks. Ashlee Simpson. Assuming I'm stranded by myself, I would likely pass the time thinking of girls (or maybe of a volleyball...), and can't picture myself dreaming and listening to William Hung. Ewwww! Don Mitchell MD CFNY, Toronto Primus "Jerry Was A Race car Driver". I take both CD's and lash them to a long stick, that I use to try to flag down ships, by bouncing sun rays off the CD's back to reflecting surface. Jack DeVoss MD WWCD/CD101, Columbus OH My Indy 500 song: "Dancing In The Dark". I would go with William Hung. You can laugh at him...Ashlee has no redeeming qualities. Marcie Lane-Robinson PD KACV, Amarillo TX Hmm...it could be the Steve Miller Band's "Living In The USA"...although, I'd have to give Black Sabbath's "The Mob Rules" and Judas Priest's "Hell Bent For Leather" a spin or two as well...those get the blood pumping! I don't hate on Ashlee...just cuz she's more Pro-Tools than actual vocal ability doesn't diminish from the fact that it's a terrifically-crafted pop album. William Hung still makes me smile...the joke doesn't get old to me. I'm not sure what that says about me exactly...but it's probably not good. Gary Jay TVT Records New York My theme song: Primus "My Name Is Mud". Hate to say it...Ashlee Simpson. Mike Kennedy (Mike The Mudman) MD WSFM, Wilmington NC Faced with that bleak choice...I'd toss myself in the ocean! Sean Boy Nitro Records, Orange County CA January 10 Rod Stewart Birthday's today: Donald Fagen, George Foreman, Max Roach, Ronnie Hawkins Linda "Lovelace" Boreman 1939-2002, Sal Mineo 1939-1976 *Special News! Last night around 8 PM I recieved this e-mail. Jack Errol Thompson...born January 7, 2005 at 3:59 PM. He's perfect! 7 Pounds and 9 ounces of pure handsome! Congrats to Charles (Frank Black/Pixies) Thompson and wife Violet!!! Questions of the week: You are a NASCAR driver...and you are revving your engine. What is your theme song that will pump you up even more for the big race at the INDY 500? You are stranded on an island (think "Lost") and you have a CD player and only two CD's. Ashlee Simpson and William Hung. Which one are you going to keep? And which one are you going to toss in the ocean? Ok...I fess up! The NASCAR question was a trick question...and Jeff McMurray and Dave Stewart caught me. NASCAR doesn't do INDY 500...but hey...I was just trying to get response from some newer people...and it worked :)-LOL. Anyway...the question stands...as a NASCAR driver-JL The NASCAR song for me would be "Where The Streets Have No Name" by U2. Always one of my favorite driving songs and I seem to find myself pounding on the accelerator when i listen to it. Never works with the the cops though. "But officer, I was listening to U2" is apparently not an acceptable excuse for speeding. On the Hung and Simpson CD's, I would break them both into shards that could use to kill food with and thankful for the newfound usefulness of the CD's. If I had to pick one, I would pick the Ashlee Simpson just because I can be a sucker for female "singers" and any kitsch factor William Hung brings to the table wears off fast. Kevin Jackson PD WTGZ, Auburn AL Is this a trick question? Cause if you're a NASCAR driver, you're not at the INDY 500- that's not for NASCAR drivers...you're at the Daytona 500, and you're crankin' Charlie Daniels "The South's Gonna Do It Again!"...and I'd keep Ashlee...if it comes with the artwork. Dave Stewart PD WARQ, Columbia SC Why would I be at the Indy 500 if I were a NASCAR driver? Perhaps the song should be "We Gotta Get Outta This Place" by the Animals. Jeff McMurray PD WKLS 96 ROCK/WBZY 96.7 THE BUZZ, Atlanta GA Song: "Nobody" by Skindred. The Ashlee Simpson CD...for outstanding achievement in studio production..."magic". Carol Stone MD WJXQ/Q106 Lansing MI I can't explain it...but the first song that came to mind was Urge Overkill "Sister Havana"...it's a kick ass song...where is that damn CD anyway? SEA ya in the ocean Ashlee!! I could listen to William Hung ALL day if it's between him and Ashlee. In fact, I'd throw her sister in the ocean too!! Gina Juliano Stuck in Cincinnati for a spell My song...Thornley "Easy Comes". Simpson or Hung...I think I'll just listen to the ocean! Dave Farra MD, Host-The Afternoon Disorder, WARQ Columbia SC My song: "Bring The Noise" Public Enemy & Anthrax. I'd keep William Hung because at least it would make me laugh. Jay Wulff MD/Afternoons 96.1/99.3 KISS FM, Poughkeepsie NY January 9 Jimmy Page Birthday's today: Joan Baez, Bob Denver, Sergio Garcia, Richard Nixon 1913-1994 From Gina Juliano For the millions of Jonathan L fans vistiting his website, cuz it is a killer site :)...I thought I'd pimp myself. I'm looking for my next PD gig anywhere in America (okay ...there may be some exclusions). Anyway, I'm looking to get back in the business as my disease has taken over and radio is the cure. I can be reached at ginajuliano@aol.com or 513-871-7778. January 8 Elvis Aron Presley 1935-1977 Birthday's today: David Bowie, Jason Giambi, Steven Hawking, Mike Cameron Ahh..more clever Worlds Best Band: Vocalist: Little Richard Guitarist: Nooney Rickett Bassist: Jaco Pastorious Drummer: Bernard "Pretty" Purdy. John Dixon aka "Johnny D" Tempe AZ Vocalist: Mike Patton Guitarist: Vernon Reid Bassist: Nick Oliveri (Queens Of The Stone Age) Drummer: Joey Waronker (Walt Mink, Beck, Ima Robot) Brandon Pappas former MD KCPX Salt Lake City UT As long as Jack Black is involved, it's already a super group. Liz Koch Notorious Promotions, Queens NY Vocalist: Chris Cornell Guitarist: Slash Bassist: Les Claypool Drummer: Josh Freeze