BY: @MISSMAYALUNE 10/5/16
What did you do to get started in your career? What was your process like?
I grew up in New York City, which is the entertainment capital of the world if you will. I grew up acting, dancing, and I knew that I wanted to be a performer on any aspect of any level. So, I went to Professional Performing Arts High School in Manhattan and studied at the world renown Alvin Ailey Dance Center. I was also with a non-profit organization called the “52nd Street Project”. The Non-profit took me in when I was 8 years old, but In high school, they gave the kids an opportunity to travel to France and perform Shakespeare’s, “Twelfth Night”. I had to choose to between performing in France, and going to my high school graduation. I definitely chose France. I figured since I was already done, why not get the life experience. After that, I decided to go to college, because I knew I loved performing arts, but I knew I wanted to be practical as well. I went to Shaw University in North Carolina. My major was Mass Communications. We had a radio station on campus, whichwas a Jazz Station originally, but they let us switch it up and spin Hip-Hop once a week. In doing that, I got an internship at WQOK 97.5 in Raleigh, North Carolina, which was the main station for Hip-Hop and R&B. I also wrote the news stories for the local affiliate that was on air, which was the Adult Urban AC Station Foxy 107/104.
Why did you choose a Historically Black College or University (HBCU)?
When I was in high school, we all applied to the same schools and Shaw University, was the school that my best friend and I got accepted into. I wanted to see something outside of New York City and this was something really different. Growing up, one of my favorite shows was “A Different World.” which really inspired me to want to go to an HBCU. They were funny and socially aware. All of the things I saw on there I wanted to experience.
Do you feel like college is necessary for a career in radio?
You know what, I think if you choose to go to college it’s totally up to you. I know I got the discipline I needed, which was necessary for my family and I. But, is it “necessary," not really. If you know somebody that can get you in the door, just go for it. There’s no “one” formula.
What tips would you give to aspiring radio personalities?
I would definitely recommend getting internships. Even if it's not the internship what you want, just get in the door and move where you want to be once you get in the building. Don't be afraid to speak to people and make connections. Don't be afraid to be proactive and tell people what you want.
How did you get to THIS STAGE IN YOUR CAREER?
Well, I’ve been in radio for a long time. I used to work at WEDR 99 JAMZ, DJ Khaled and I, had a show there for about 7 years together. Then, I moved back to New York and did the Hot 97 morning show for about 4 years. Then, I got an opportunity to move back to Miami to spearhead my night show for 103.5 The Beat. I also have midday shows in Jacksonville, FL and Texas as well.
What is your best/ favorite interview?
I’ve had so many... There was this one interview I did with comedian Patrice O’neal. He passed away shortly after the interview, but it was a heated discussion about men, women, relationships and things of that nature. He held his ground and I held mine. Till this day, people still ask me about that interview.
What are some outlets for women in radio who are looking for employment/ internships?
There was a few websites I used to live by, allaccess.com, iheartmediacareers.com and urbaninsite.com. As far as internships are concerned, if you go to school, it can lead you to an internship, because you need those credits. There are different outlets for internships like; News departments and promotion departments. If you know someone at a record label, that's a plus. With technology, now you can go to different “.com” sites and try to intern there as well.
Would you want to do TV Again?
For sure, that’s definitely on my list. I’m working on my own documentary series on different artists, in different fields. So, when I do go back on TV, it's going to be on my own terms. There’s no date on when we can view it just yet. But, I did interview some new artists, as well as, some legends. Besides television, I'm also working on my own podcast, which we’re working out the details now.
Do you feel like women in radio are treated differently than men?
Oh, for sure, we definitely get paid less. There are different sacrifices that women have to make that men don’t. One of those are starting a family. If radio isn't your priority, you're looked down upon, with men it’s different. They really don't have to choose between a family and a career.
Being a woman in this career is very competitive, what are some tips you can give for staying positive and keeping your head above water?
Get a mentor... Get someone that you trust to kind of guide you through this crazy jungle. Also, don't forget to have fun. Stay passionate about the music, but also make sure that you focus on your writing skills. If you do get opportunities to interview people, make sure you do your research and you're not presumptuous. Develop relationships with different labels, so you can have access to upcoming or established artists in your area. Don't be afraid to think outside the box for events and initiatives you want to drive forward. You're there to be a personality, not a robot.
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