One of the most time consuming jobs of running Rockland USA is researching new music releases in the genres of Rock, Alternative, Hot AC, Modern, and AC (AC=Adult Contemporary). It's always my goal to get music posted into the programming before a listener hears it on terrestrial radio - basically in their car. That said, I am very picky with what new tracks I will select. Because Rockland USA is a 'popular rock' station, it is my job to listen to a track and predict if the track will end up in at least the top 20 of the national airplay charts.
Yes, I'm anal.
To select a track I head on over to some radio industry websites that announce the new track releases, listen to a sample and make a decision. I usually only give a track about 30 seconds to impress me. Pretty shallow eh? If the track is too 'hard' or loud, I won't consider it. If it is too slow I won't consider it (though I guess you could consider Evanesence's 'My Immortal' as slow but it was damn popular. Exception made.
Sure the station is 'sugary sweet' but let's face it - most of my audience listens from their cubicles at work and because of that the music must be 'work friendly'. I still test the limits of that station rule from time to time and make adjustments accordingly. Whatever the majority of my listeners want - they get!
Latest new tracks:
- 3 Doors Down - Let Me Go (New album coming out in February 2005)
- Bowling For Soup - Almost (This style of music will get old real quick)
- Jimmy Eat World - Work (I like this track - pure pop rock hit)
- Melissa Etheridge - Christmas In America (Slightly political but still a great track)
- Simple Plan - My Christmas List (Kind of funny if you listen to the words)
