|
Brian's Career
Capsule
I started in radio in 1986 at my hometown top 40 (103CIR) in Beckley
WV. Worked at WAEY FM and Star 95 a country then AC radio station in
Princeton WV from 1995-2000. IN 2000 I started to work for Positive
Alternative Radio (WPAR) in Blacksburg VA. In 2001 WPAR and WRXT
(Spirit FM) in Lynchburg VA merged and I spent the next 7 years in
Lynchburg. I moved within the company to WCQR in August of 2008.
1.
How has WCQR evolved over the last few years?
My stint here
has been less than a year, but I really see being involved in social
networking (Facebook and Twitter) as important to the station. We
also strive to be real people on the air, talking about things our
listeners are talking about.
2. Has WCQR made any changes due to economic situation, been
affected in any way?
We are lean and
mean and all of us wear multiple hats. When I was hired WCQR was
fully staffed, a month later we lost a team member and have yet to
fill the position due to the economy.
3.
How is your coverage area a unique Christian market?
We are able to
cover the whole market without driving all day! We cover the
Tri-cities of Johnson City, Kingsport and Bristol along with areas
of Southwest VA. We can be local and we work hard to be just that.
We truly have very loyal listeners, that’s due in part to the hard
work of the PD’s before me.
4. What criteria do you require for a song to be played on your
station?
Will it help me
fulfill the mission and calling of WCQR. Other things of course
weigh in my decision according to my musical needs that week. Also,
will it be a song I’ll be playing as a GOLD one day.
5. What kind of promotions work best for Christian radio?
Right now for
us, things that will benefit them economically or ways they can
serve and help others. Two big things we’ve done this year. “The
College Dream”, we helped someone go back and finish their college
degree. “Project 52”, a year long food drive to help Second Harvest
Food Bank.
6. How do you think Christian Record labels can better serve
Christian radio?
They do a good
job now with the many stations they have to contact. Technology is a
help. Keeping an honest conversation on songs that will and will not
work for you is a key.
7. In your opinion what are the biggest obstacles facing Christian
radio today?
Staying relevant
to our listeners in all areas of their lives.
8.
What do you believe is the primary role of the Christian radio air
personality?
Be the moon,
reflect the Son! I’ve heard it said many times and it’s so true!
9.
What (if any) Christian radio stations do you consider as innovators
today?
I love the work
some close friends are doing at KTIS, KWND, WMIT, WPAR and WPER.
10. Where do you see Christian radio in 5 years?
It will be
better, because of the passion of the people at stations all over
striving to serve Christ and others!
Previous Interviews
|
