Radio Guide: How do you decide the music '80s Now Dot Com plays?
Jeffrey T. Mason: OK - here's a crazy concept: GUT! I see too many radio stations depending on their research/testing. It's true, research is a great commodity! But, what most programmers forget is that it's a TOOL, not the RULE. I remember the 1980's. I remember what was huge. I remember what songs were NOT huge, but got lots of attention anyway. I started this project earlier this year with WXXY's playlist at the time of sign-off in 2001. I then simply used my own gut to add more! If I hear a song on 80's Now Dot Com, and don't feel it fits...I'll take it off! It's as simple as that. This station will always be a work-in-progress. You can't allow your playlist to get stagnant. You MUST change things up once in a while. Although, with about 2000 titles in the database, I don't think we'll ever be considered "stagnant" musically.
Radio Guide: The jingles sound great...nice touch. Was that a bit of fun ear candy to play with?
Jeffrey T. Mason: I have ALWAYS been a great fan of JAM Creative Productions www.jingles.com. When we were building WXXY in 1999, the plan was to go with a new jingle package. The thought was that since the music was 10-20 years old, the new jingles would add a contemporary feel. I adamantly opposed, and eventually got my way. We went with classic 1980's jingles from JAM. I feel it helps to complete the 1980's package. These jingles had been aired in Chicago by WLS, Z95, B96 and Q101 during the 80's. BUT, they had NOT been used in over 10 years! So, while familiar, they were not stale. They were, in essence, NEW again. It worked. Many of the calls and e-mails we received complimented us on the jingles. PEOPLE NOTICE! By the way, I am also using Eric Edwardswww.egvo.com and Mitch Craigwww.mitchcraig.com for voice imaging on 80's Now Dot Com. Both Mitch and Eric have that ballsy, powerful sound that was prevalant in radio in the 1980's. They sound excellent packaged with the jingles!
Radio Guide: You guys think you'll make any money doing this? How?
Jeffrey T. Mason: I sure as hell HOPE so! This project has cost some $$$! But, I didn't go into this looking to make money. It's truly a labor of love. However, if I can find a way to make back some cash, while NOT sacrificing the product quality, BOY HOWDY! Someone want to teach me how to make money on the internet outside of gambling and porn? ;-)
Radio Guide: What are your future plans for '80s Now Dot Com?
Jeffrey T. Mason: Being the first week (at the time of this Q&A), I don't know! I'd like to expand the number of available streams on 80's Now, and let the whole world re-live some truly FUN music! For now, we're all music. But, at some point, specialty shows may be added - along with personalities. We'll play it by ear. Though, I welcome any input at: requests@80sNow.com.
