Our friend and rapper extraordinaire James Christos was kind enough to call the Wayward HQ and give us the skinny on a public forum of sorts that went down last night between representatives from Hot 103 Jamz and a bevy of Kansas City rappers and DJs.
The focus: Why the area's leading urban station plays almost no local hip-hop. It's not a new question by any means, but it's something that continually frustrates and inspires local artists to act.
Summary: KPRS continually takes heat for maintaining a format that the station feels works -- a format that has no room for up-and-coming KC artists. In short, the station doesn't play local artists because local artists aren't big enough. Artists, in turn, complain that they (and by extension, Kansas City's reputation nationwide) can't get big without local radio support. It would have the makings of a stalemate -- except that many in the hip-hop community aren't interested in backing down.
According to Christos, the impromptu summit was held at Jaz Brewer's 64111 Studios on 17th and Summit St. and that, in fact, it came about because of a Twitter campaign launched by Brewer. Read back over the past few days of tweets @Jaz64111studio to catch up.
Christos says some 40 people participated in a public conference call that included several KPRS DJs. Kenny Diamondz, host of the station's only local music program, Underground Heat, was present in person, as were about 20 livid locals ("Everybody who's anybody in rap in Kansas City," was how Christos put it). According to Christos, the Hennessey flowed and so did the honesty.
And in the end, he says, no accord was reached between the station and the artists.
Now we want to hear from you: Were you there? What happened? What should happen next?
We want to hear from both sides of the debate. And, please, include your name with your comment.
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i am traveling between Scotland and Leeds, reading this on my PDA. Will read it in full when I get back, and I will also post a backlink on my website. Thanks.
Transmission of genital yeast infections from woman to man is uncommon, but it does happen.
I wasn't able to attend the "meeting" but from what I've heard and have had the pleasure of reading, I would have to say that the entire "meeting" seems like it was an overwhelming success! Just getting people talking seems to be a hurdle in KC so I'm thankful for the restructured lines of communication. My thoughts on the issue are as follows:
Success should not be measurered by the amount of radio play one achieves. Being talented enough to make music that people actually enjoy hearing instantly makes you a winner. The constant jockeying for spins just adds more stress to a already stressful situtaion. At the end of the day EVERY artists feels they're are the next big thing and that the only piece missing from global domination is radio play....REALITY SINGS A VERY DIFFERENT SONG!
I've gotten spins on KPRS (Underground Heat) and have even had the distinct pleasure of a live on-air interview (Thanks Kenney) but I've also submitted music that never saw the listening light of day. Luckily I understand that this has been and shall be the nature of the beast. This is something that we CAN & WILL change through much more of the POSITIVE communication that has been established as of late (Thanks Jaz).
In closing, if I had anything to say the to the local artists it would be, just stay positive, stay business minded (Thanks Keewaun), stay focused and use your frustrations as fuel for lyrical fire!
Bucc$ (The Hardest Working Man In Flow-Biz)
The Paramount Music Group
True Spittaz Ent.
Guerilla Movement
O.v.e.r.K.i.l.l.
Artistry Unlimited
I wasn't able to attend the "meeting" but from what I've heard and have had the pleasure of reading, I would have to say that the entire "meeting" seems like it was an overwhelming success! Just getting people talking seems to be a hurdle in KC so I'm thankful for the restructured lines of communication. My thoughts on the issue are as follows:
Success should not be measurered by the amount of radio play one achieves. Being talented enough to make music that people actually enjoy hearing instantly makes you a winner. The constant jockeying for spins just adds more stress to a already stressful situtaion. At the end of the day EVERY artists feels they're are the next big thing and that the only piece missing from global domination is radio play....REALITY SINGS A VERY DIFFERENT SONG!
I've gotten spins on KPRS (Underground Heat) and have even had the distinct pleasure of a live on-air interview (Thanks Kenney) but I've also submitted music that never saw the listening light of day. Luckily I understand that this has been and shall be the nature of the beast. This is something that we CAN & WILL change through much more of the POSITIVE communication that has been established as of late (Thanks Jaz).
In closing, if I had anything to say the to the local artists it would be, just stay positive, stay business minded (Thanks Keewaun), stay focused and use your frustrations as fuel for lyrical fire!
Bucc$ (The Hardest Working Man In Flow-Biz)
The Paramount Music Group
True Spittaz Ent.
Guerilla Movement
O.v.e.r.K.i.l.l.
Artistry Unlimited
KRPS is no different from any other corporate radio station in the United States of America.
If you go to Los Angeles, CA right now and turn on Power 106 FM, you will hear the EXACT same playlist as you would on Hot 103 JAMZ (where hip-hop lives.)
The way big corporate radio works is, they hold huge testing listening sessions with random people off the street. They play songs, and then the people decide what they would want to hear more of, and what they are not interested in hearing more of.
A lot of local/unheard of/new artists fail to test well at these sessions. Ne-Yo and Snoop and The Dream, however, test very well.
Why?
Because people don't care enough. And you can't get mad at them for it.
People who consistently listen to Power 106 and Hot 103, are people who don't have enough interest in radio to demand new, innovative tunes be played. They want to hear what they are familiar with. As much as I personally love James Christos-- The Dream is unfortunately going to test better and keep people locked into the station.
JT Quick is a personal friend of mine, and a huge fan of my music. I do not, however, expect him to play my songs on Hot 103.
It's not how Hot 103 works.
Hot 103 is funded by huge corporate advertising money. The concept is, 75% of the day is spent playing songs that people are familiar with and will sing along to (Solja Boy, The Dream, etc.). The other 25% of the day is spent running advertisements. The radio station, in turn, has to make sure they keep people locked into the station so they can hear the advertisements.
Power 106 and Hot 103 have a responsibility to their investors, way more than they do the local musicians.
Think about it this way:
In Kansas City, do you go to Applebee's to get a slab of ribs? NO. You go to LC's, Jack Stack, Gates, Oklahoma Joe's etc.
However, Applebee's has way more money, and way more customers than the local owned BBQ joints do.
I think the biggest misconception in this thread, is people think Hot 103 is something that it simply is not.
One thing I do find interesting though. Is for 4 years I have hosted one of the most listened to Sunday night radio shows in the city. Black Clover Radio airs EVERY SUNDAY, and I play TONS of obscure/underground/and even commercial hip-hop. I have tirelessly blogged, gone on HIPHOPKC to post, and verbally told people around the city to send me edited versions of their music so I could play them on the radio.
96.5 the Buzz is as big, if not bigger, than Hot 103 JAMZ. I get tons of listeners, every Sunday night, who would love nothing more than to hear local Kansas City rappers spitting hotness.
Besides Approach, James Christos and Les Izmore: NO ONE HAS SENT ME A F*CKING THING.
My show is way doper than Hot 103 JAMZ entire station. I seldom play stuff that is even remotely corporate.
However, people apparently ain't on their grind. At least their music grind. Their complaining grind seems to be flawless though.
Hey folks,
This is a very interesting conversation. Admittedly, I haven't read the entire string of comments as there are a lot, but I've read enough to get a basic sense of what's at stake and the general fault lines in how people are seeing this issue.
At the risk of being marginalized for the tardiness of my comment, I'd like to introduce a couple of factors and broaden the conversation about radio and the community in general.
First, I think the critique of KPRS says nothing exceptional about this particular radio station, as Reach rightfully points out. The standardization of radio and its playlists is a global phenomenon. While Sku shows us there are exceptions to the rule in terms of musical content, KPRS reflects a general pattern of the monopolization of ALL aspects society, not just radio. It is the same in New Orleans and here in Austin where I live now. Whether I turn on the radio or walk into a restaurant or a bookstore, I see the same shit here as I do in every other city. This has everything to do with the increasing control that capitalism generally exercises over our lives.
Second, the particular set of artists that get play reflects no one-to-one relationship with how hard artists work. I think ALL of us can admit that we do not nor have ever lived in a meritocracy. An MC can work hard her entire life and never have the privilege of being played on the radio, even if they have all the talent in the world. This doesn't mean that those artists don't work hard, but let's be real. Where people are at in life bears no direct reflection on how much they have put into it. Those crackers on Wall Street are just the beginning. Straight nepotism.
Third, radio is a decaying institution. It has been superseded by other more open-source and democratic means of dissemination. It seems that, in a sense, we are about ten years late on this discussion. I'm actually surprised that this conversation is still taking place on these terms. Because this tightening grip over how radio is run is in direct proportion to the democratization of certain web-based media. They are losing control and are trying to reassert it, like the Hip-Hop Media Labs folks mention in their response to the arrest of DJ Drama over two years ago.
At bottom the critique of radio is a critique over who should control it, its corporate benefactors or the larger community it claims to represent? Now, mind you, I realize there may be a little bit of ego attached to the desire to hear local artists if you are one yourself, but I think there's a deeper political content that's been generally missed here. Davey D, who most of you have probably heard of, has made a valid point on his blog that while black radio claims to represent the black community, not a god damn thing was said about the mass actions against the Oakland police by this community after the cops murdered Oscar Grant.
In Honduras, the State has taken control of all radio in order to stifle the mass movement that is taking place there against the coup. The interesting thing about this is that the control is being flexed through private ownership, not through direct state takeover. This has already happened here. For working class Hondurans, this has made manifest the need to seize the radio along with their workplaces, schools, and communities. We have to ask, is the problem of radio independent of other problems of control in society?
Furthermore, it isn't just local artists, or conservative hip-hop backpackers who have grown tired of corporate radio. It has a mass character, even if folks still listen to it, as I do. Strategically speaking, I can't see that meeting with local radio personalities will doing anything at all to change what, ultimately, has to come from the behest of the community. There has to be actual ORGANIZING around this question, a challenge for power. Although, I imagine that while most folks see this question as valid, there are other more pressing questions that should take priority, such as police brutality, gentrification, unemployment, etc. Not much can be done about radio that hasn't been done with other forms of media. It seems to me that what Honduras shows us is that the control over radio will have to come during an advanced stage of mass struggle, a stage we are definitely not in.
That's my two cents.
This argument is pointless for two reasons:
1.) Nobody is more passionate about their art than the artists themselves. The artist that seeks fame or recognition cannot and will not begin to understand why they are undeserving of accolades either from the media or their peers. In other words, KC rap artists will never be satisfied unless it's their music played all the time all day long and to that end 103.3 will go out of business. If it was a viable format another radio station would have done it a long time ago.
2.) Local artists compete for airtime right along side every major artist and if you think a business such as 103 is going to throw a ton of virtually unknown music to their audience to "keep it real" you are either crazy or just plain stupid. Every minute of everyday of airplay is a battleground for artists as there are only 24 hours in a day (minus the commercials).
Both sides are right and wrong. The radio will never understand the passion that these people put into their music, therefore will never be able to reward them with the airplay they feel deserved. Conversely, unless you understand the business of the media (TV, Print, & Radio) you have no idea how cut throat and tough it is to keep afloat in this day and age. Some sacrifices have to be made and some feelings will be hurt but seriously, GROW UP! Stop whining like little kids and step your game up, both sides!
kc needs to quit on the ethnic/racial/ division in its music. black/white/mexican/asian rappers need to come together.
rappers from the 'hood' need to tone their shit down so the soccer moms from the burbs will let their kids listen to/BUY the music.
RECORD SALES DO NOT EQUAL RADIO SPINS. ever wonder why a more popular artist is billed before a less known act? well if a corporate radio station is putting it on, it's because they go by the amount of plays a single has over the amount of sales an album has. ex: you can move 100k units, but if a group/band/performer has only moved 50k units but has double the radio single plays, they will be on the bill before you. but what matters is YOU have made more money on your hard work, and while they are eatin taco bell after the show, you can have a nice steak.
if you make an unmarketable product YOU WILL NOT MAKE MONEY. rappin about gettin money will most like NOT get you the money.
LEARN HOW TO RAP. if it is your biz, then study it and learn it and do it well. any jackass can cup a mic and yell 'yo, yo' and drop an expletive a second. eff that. if you have heard a local act has a good show- go to it. SUPPORT AND LEARN.
get a damn day job. support your music hustle by being able to afford the hustle.
ON FRIDAY NIGHT SAVE YOUR FUNDS. the 100 you dropped at the bar peacocking for some dirty p@$$y could be put towards printing decent flyers, better mixing/editing equipment, merch, or promo cd's.
STOP TALKING ABOUT HOW YOU RUN THE CITY. you just look like an idiot when your product is heard and it's obvious you have spent more time talkin than workin. again- get a day job. you ain't runnin the city if you can't even pay your damn rent.
it's getting cold out. perfect time to lay low and get your shit together.
Some individuals need to take a class in just basic economics -- and improve or update their overall comprehension about the dynamics of capitalism and corporate america, specifically how this type of business entity works..acts and reacts.
103 is symbolic of the overall problem KC has faced for many years, extremely, extremely slow when it comes to evolving.
Also, with regards to the above dialogue, why are so many of the opinions off topic????? I think the initial statement was in reference to 103's perpetual self-absorbed mentality and inability, or lack of cooperation to really represent KANSAS CITY and its artists, residents, etc. There is not even a platform accessible that compensates for their historical error and selfish motives. But then again, they are a business entity. And then again, people that continue to support 103...will continue to put money in their pockets...which will continue to justify their lack of genuine interest (which it seems with Underground Heat -- feeble attempt -- to be a damn obligation). As a recent post stated, other cities seem to have the understanding that SOME local representation here and there isn't that bad.
I give a damn about the little special meeting between some microscopic entity of corporate america and the "invite only" "rappers" or eMCees withing Kansas City. Where I give a damn...is the lack of intelligence, resolution, competence..and just THINKING. Too many egos, not enough rationale.
I'm an MC myself, I was REPPIN KC when I was holding residence out on the East Coast for awhile. People used to ask me about the radio stations here (and I'll add, they didn't know a damn thing about 103.3, but they can tell you about the stations in Cali, TX, NY that have achieved national status..while also being able to play some local tracks here and there, beyond the current status of 103), and they were shocked at my unbiased and honest response. "We have 103,a historically 'black and urban (ooooooooooooohhhh)'radio station...but the most interaction they air with our residents are stupid birthday shoutouts and other minstrel show gimmicks." Yeah I said it.
The KC scene here, the community, KEEP DOING THE DAMN THING...we've been able to create our own status and events. When I returned from the East, I was so disappointed with certain aspects...from 103 NOT EVEN CHANGING in the years I was gone, and even some of you rap cats had me vexed because of certain politics and conformity of course (to the point I TOOK A BREAK from all of this, and just WROTE for my soul..not wanting to share it with anyone like I was doing out East).., but regardless...I'd rather support the people in the streets, than some station with weak excuses and emotional rants to explain why THEY JUST CAN'T. They ain't us.., we are the people..eyes, ears, and mouths. Some cat named Kenny Diamond doesn't represent me or my thoughts, or the camp I roll with...or the school I come from. And ONCE AGAIN, don't throw that underground heat and mixtape rhetoric at me...because I can honestly and technically break down how 103 functions on an academic level....which really makes all of this dialogue..important..and almost pointless at the same time. Basically, KC...REP YASELF...COLLECTIVELY...STAND UP. BUILD.
I come as I go, and I'm just now gettin back..
PEACE...
SubliminaLthA7thBorN
Listening to everyone try to fit every issue into 2 hours was overwhelming. It's apparent that local artists want to be in regular rotation on their local radio station. However, Hot 103 is a corporate structure and has to present music that is suitable to the masses as well to not disrupt the Corporate foundation. Rap/HipHop is already a threat to the media if you allow some folks to tell it, but that another conference.
Getting into rotation has little to do with content or language. The only reason a local artist won't be put into rotation on Hot 103 is a lack of industry knowledge and application of acquired knowledge.
Who knows if it's the artists or the managers of these artists but some people just aren't "up on their game" as they lay claim to be, otherwise it would show.
I was hesitant about staying on the phone 10 minutes into the call. All the ego's were in the way, as usual, and there was no forward movement. While on call of this magnitude - especially one that is being recorded - if one lacks the awareness that everyone cannot talk at once, use constant profanity, call each other n*** or anything equally disrespectful then how can one even assume that the next move will be forward. I'm not from KC but every city has artists and every artist want to get on the radio. Those who actually are "up on their game" are striving to teach those who constantly complain. Artist could benefit from opening their mouths only when their in the booth or on stage and the microphone is on. Managers of these artist need to study and know the rules before they even pick up artists to manage.
It's really not the Corporations fault. The medium has been provided, a foundation has been laid, and all one must do is follow the rules. Yes, the rules can be changed and that happens rarely within the agreement of all parties involved.
There are other outlets to manifesting the support desired from your hometown, nationally, and internationally. These avenues should be utilized heavily so as to lay your own foundation and reinforce your own rules. It is possible.
Peace.Nici.
I've had a couple of people contact me directly about their comments going to spam. I apologize for that system error -- it's as frustrating to me as it is to you. To my knowledge, all comments that went to spam are now published, and I'll get IT working on the problem. It's just the weight of this awesome disucssion!
Note that @Jaz64111studio's comment at 8:47 pm yesterday has just been published. It sat in the spam filter all night.DAMMIT! Please read it either by scrolling back up or clicking on this direct link:
http://blogs.pitch.com/wayward...
NOW
to be objective about this issue, ill now voice my displeasure with a large section of local artists
IT IS NOT YOUR RIGHT TO HAVE MUSIC PLAYED ON THE RADIO, IN THE CLUB, OR ON A MIXTAPE-i don't give a flyin monkey's ass how "huarrrd" you think you are
If your music sounds the same as everybody else's shit i hear out there, i feel no urgency to play it. period. BE ORIGINAL! don't set out to be the next jay-z, lil wayne, 50 cent, or any other succesful artist getting spins. they've already put their style out there first, and in all probability, they do it better than you.
If you have no training making music, whether it be through school or apprenticeship with someone that does make music professionally, DON'T MAKE MUSIC! THIS ISNT A GET RICH QUICK SCHEME. contrary to popular opinion, the rap game is not like the crack game. if you sell dope, then just sell dope. you would be offended if dionne warwick started huggin your block, trying to get your cash, wouldnt you? stay out of my small-ass wallet. i may die broke chasing my music aspiration, i don't need hobbyist diggin in my pockets at the same time.
learn how to perform on stage, i don't need a bunch of studio gangsters fucking up shows so they grab their balls, fit the waistline of their jeans below their kneecaps so they can show the 3 pairs of shorts they got on, and coon it up for the 3 homeboys they came with. learn how to entertain somebody besides yourself.
PAY FOR SHIT! don't always ask to get on the list at shows, you're taking money out of promoters, and by proxy, artist pockets. same goes with graphics work, cd pressing, and promotion if no one pays for anything, how profitable can our industry be if no one pays for anything. how good can the product be if no money can be put behind it? at least offer some kind of service in trade. Example: 50$ for a dj to do your mixtape is a slap in the face, u might as well hold them at gunpoint and force them to do it.
while im on the mixtape subject, dont ask me to do a mixtape, then tell me how u want it done. if you had any clue how to make a successful mixtape, you wouldnt be hollerin' at me to begn with, right?
last but not least, if this music shit is easy for you, THEN YOU AINT DOIN SHIT! I swear you have to love pain and hardship to have any sort of success. if those that are succesful in music did if effortlessly, there would be no reason to have a vh1 behind the music show, would there? i don't do business with those that don't show the wear and tear of dedication to the business.
one more question. what does the "sound of our station" consist of? what is the literal standard that 103 goes by in regards to choosing music locally and nationally?
@KENNYDIAMONDZ
I hate to respond only to your comments here, because i believe in general you do a great service to the local artists. but because the opinions of Carter Broadcast Group Staff or management don't feel obligated to manifest themselves, you're all i got to work with.
How does a GRAMMY-NOMINATED Black artists from our hometown not fit your demographic? Janelle Monae is no hip hop artist either.
how is this not about money? though you are not personally compensated for the show, i haven't seen Carter Broadcasting apply for non-prof status. i find it hard to believe that ANY program or format that didnt generate revenue would stick around for long.
again, i would like to know, how much would the entirety of ad slots from 12am-5am cost? what can we do to put in on this to make the concept more local music more financially appealing?
if 103 has lead the charts for that long, how much risk is there in trying something new?
if 103 has no competition in the same genre, isnt part of a larger national radio corp., and still dominates the city in ratings, who cares what the national perception is. how is it not a mom and pop market? isnt that how it started?
as far as the artists that dont listen to the station, u can chalk those up as either
A. liars
B. uninterested, uneducated, or uninformed
C. won over by other forms of media
or
D. not impressed.
no one is concerned about biting the hand that feeds them if their stomachs are still grumbling
in regards to mixshows, how does every other succesful market in the country get away with mixshows in daytimes slots if every workplace in their city would be up in arms about the content. i think you should give more credit to DJs who can provide a pleasurable music experience for multiple demographics, not just the people that listen to the radio to and from the club.
i think the last point is where we have lost our way. i think alot of great minds that belong to mix dj's have been dismissed inexcusably. there are a number of mix djs in town that could play for the drivetime and workplace demographic 103 currently programs for and like you, might be willing offer their services for free.
Bottom Line, NY, LA, CHI, and other major markets thrive with live mixes as a MAJOR part of their programming. there's no logical explanation as to why KC can't do the same, with the dubious exception of the "FUCK YOU IM PAID AND WILL DO AS I PLEASE" mentality that is an everyday henderence to our local music and radio industry becoming more progressive.
again Kenny, i can't thank you enough for your personal contribution to the hip hop movement, but until i see someone with the Last name Carter speak on the issue earnestly, and more specifically give us a list of things to be completed for us to have a thriving local MUSIC(not just hip hop) influence on their airwaves, any words coming from any subordinates of them will sound like someone quoting the company line. and nothing will change
WOOOW! This has to one of the coolest things to happen in a long time. I am glad everyone is using their voice to comment on the issuse. I want to point out one other thing that was brought up on the call by "Big Al - Core Dj". KPRS is a FULL SERVICE urban radio station. Which means we have to service the urban consumer as a whole. Not just rapppers and emcee's (who I have now learned from this call and comments that have been posted)who don't even listen to our station. Running a radio station is a business and being the only true urban station in the market makes it HARDER for us to support a product that is not viable.
We turn down National artist with songs that don't fit the SOUND OF OUR STATION. Also, we can't have a dj mixing in the middle of the day...Is your job gonna let you listen to that while your at work? NO! We are trying to attract more than just the hip hop scene in this market. I personally would LOVE for us to be a more hip hop based station, but that is not the case.
KPRS has been here 60 years...the last 31 rating periods we have been #1 24 times, that's #1 overall beating out Country, Rock, Alternative and more. Now my question for all the rappers emcees singers...etc. If YOU were winning like this in your specific professional...how much would you change? Do I wish things could be different...YES. Do I see the big picture...YES.
Lastly, artist...you are competing for the same spin spots as Jay-Z, 50 cent and others. On a national level the media outlets dictate how HOT your market is...if we play music that people are not familiar in KC as well as other markets...KC will be looked at as a mom and pop market and KC artist will be looked at as mom and pop artist.
And furthermore....the local artist don't support the radio station. How can you put a project out and not use our airwaves to promote your product?! If we don't sell ads we will have to close our doors...If yall don't tell us about your music how are we supposed to know who you are?!
And NO...it's not only about MONEY! If it was, there would be NO Underground Heat (that some of yall don't even support) or Friday Night Mixtape shows. The individuals, including myself, take the time to listen to ALL the music EVERY local and national artist submit...produce the show and WE DON'T GET A DIME! No disrespect to any other radio station...but who else can you get 1 spin from that actually will help you when you look at the big picture (meaning getting BDS credit) NOBODY...but were the bad guy? See, Ima stop typing now because I'm getting in my feelings.
These comments are my opinion and not the opinion of Carter Broadcast Group, Inc. staff or management!
Just to clarify some things before i start, i may not have been physically at the meeting, but trust that my views were represented, ten-fold by many of my colleagues, one of which being the facilitator of the event.
To Kenny, Bryan, and any other Representative of Carter Broadcasting, i appreciate you making an effort and subjectin yourself to the ire of a disgruntled music community, However, as valuable as your input is, Id rather hear some questions answered by someone who writes the checks rather than someone who earns them at this point.
In other words, I wanna hear someone with the last name Carter answer these questions..
my questions are as follows:
Janelle Monae, a Grammy-Nominated black artist home grown from KCK, Hasn't gotten a spin from your station since her song on Big Boi from Outkast's Purple Ribbon Compilation. why?
There are 168 hours in a week, do you truley believe that the local MUSIC industy(not just hip hop) is only valuable for 2-4 of them including the few local artists that do get prime time spins?
If this all comes down to money(note, we already know it does), How much does ad space from midnight to 5am monday thru Friday cost? i'd like an actual figure, cuz if we need to fund our own agenda(respectfully of FCC Laws of course), then i think some people are willing to make that happen.
For a large portion of the 90's hip hop music was for all intents and purposes banned from airplay in an efforT to (in the voice of Jeff Charney) PUT THE DAMN GUNS DOWN. Currently, you give spins to the likes of Gucci Mane, nearly a convicted murderer, as well as others who glorify violence, misogyny, and other forms of coonery stereotypical to people of color, regardless of the fact that there are a plethora of talented artists of every genre you serve that don't get a fraction of the spins and attention of the former. Even back in the day, instead of giving those types of artists a spotlight, you decided to eliminate Hip Hop music as a whole. Why all of the Flip-Flopping between morals and money when it comes to urban music?
Its always noted that Carter Broadcasting is one of the oldest black stations west of the Mississippi, and obviously the only one that has consistently played urban music in KC. If any other station than your own dominated the local market in this manner, wouldnt you call it a legally supported Monopoly? Doesn't it seem a lil disingenuous to claim the small market blues here? Who are you competing with that compels you to program your station the way that you do? It feels very similar to the way David Glass has ran the royals since he bought the franchise. you can't claim struggling when the only stuggling being done is carrying bags of money to the bank. you can piss on the heads of grown men and women with common sense and tell them its raining.
if im wrong on the finance part of this issue, would you be willing to open the books to the public so that we might better understand the decision making in regards to playlist?
If indeed your format is dependent on competing with other markets, to echo DJ Sku's sentiment, WHY THE EXCRUCIATINGLY LOW AMOUNT OF LIVE or RECORDED DJ MIXES? The few TRUE dj's that you allow to submit mixes bring a following everytime they spin. It's radio industry standard in every successful market in the country, and i know this because i, along with others, traveled half of it this summer in an effort to attain the exposure our hometown station is reluctant to provide.
In regards to the artists responsibility, it can't be said that no artists in KC have a sophisticated business acumen about them. i know for a fact that some make constant visits to the station to determine what's needed from them to get more spins. some of these people have business relationships with major labels and are registered with BDS as they should be, as well their product being produced, mixed, and mastered by some of the top audio engineers in kansas city. ive also heard some of those artists records being rejected for being "too intelligent"(in the words of Eben Gregory "OH FOR REAL?"). if there is such a low amount of well produced local music, as its been claimed in this forum, shouldnt it be more of a priority to play those local artists that DO have a professional, industry-grade product?
When was the last time Carter Broadcasting took a genuine risk in regards to its format? it would seem apparent that those stations that are in heated competition with others take risks in order to gain an edge on their competition. A number of stations in the local area and in larger markets tweak their format regularly to stay viable. yet with the exception of underground heat, FNM, and the syndicated Big Tigga Show on sundays, there doesnt seem to be a large amount of evolution between the 103.3 of now and the same station in 1996.
And a final question. There's been blame tossed all around this issue, but i would like to know Where Carter Broadcasting itself feels it has failed its own marketplace? I know its required to market yourself as the best radio station ever created, but it might help if someone that makes FINAL decisions regarding its treatment of the local hip hop scene admits their shortcomings and provide real solutions for ending the hostilities and closing the gap between local music.
I think we as a city would be very upset if Carter Broadcasting wasn't part of it, but i also believe we would be just as happy if a competitor was around that actually listened to demand as well as set a standard that that included not exposing young ears and minds to pharmaceutical-grade coonery...
Ill have my thoughts about how the town treats TRUE djs up before the day is over...
For those who don't know who I am for one I'm a one man show. I own off the hook ent. I DJ & I just recently started www.KCMIXTAPES.com to help people around the world to get to know kansas city music.I also produce mixtapes for local artist like RONDOE,BABIEKEESH,PETEY SENSAY,SOLIZO,DONTA SLUSHA & More to come.. I was there at jaz64111 studio that night, I also brought rondoe with me.I was there to listen & learn I didn't even get on the phone...the same thing keewaun g been pushing is the same thing I've been pushing to every artist I run into....if you really want to do this you have to believe in yourself & push yourself so other will believe in you also,start of my writing about more than shooting & what set hood you from if you have talent show your talen,not saying that you can't rap about shooting but not all time!!!!! & as artist,dj,producers in kansas city we have to support each other..that means stop bad talking another man cause he has a different sound,now if he or she is not talented they need to know so real talent can be heard
First off I would like to say, I was in attendance last night! Last night was definitely a step in the right direction, Major shoutouts the Brian B. Shynin & Kenny Diamondz for being there and shedding some light on the radio's end, I got alot from the whole conference call. How artist need to stop the blame game, respect the dj's,work your crafts, and knowing your business. Keewuan said it best learn your demographic. The station doesn't owe us shit, they should WANT to help, but don't have to,again THEY DON'T OWE US SHIT!!! The Station also has the play national music, sure it may be that same 10 songs for eight hours, but how else would they keep they doors open? You???? Also there's the fact of the countless artist who refuse to take advice or criticism of the music they make, they don't take time to mix and master, they don't create a package, don't do radio edits, consider subject matter, and they have zero knowlegde! But it's 103.3 fault huh? Not really taking up for them, but with having a better understanding of their position, I see their point. As far as if you don't know of who all was on the call and why they were there, then do ya RESEARCH!!! Also people are quick to blame the Radio or the artists, and blame does fall on both sides somewhat. But has anybody given consideration to the fact that the consumer is just as much to blame!!! These same people that don't support local artist, as well as radio! And that suffer from a since of entitlement worse than the artists. Won't by ya CD even it they like it, hell even if its free they tend not to listen anyway because you maybe different and in their eye's you ain't nobody famous, you just local, don't come to shows, even when they're free. And Finally for the people weighing in on how the radio is whack, My Question to you is, Is it whack because your not on the air? or is it because you don't like the music local or national. Let's keep it 100% folks. If you can't stand what you hear, then scrape up paper and buy the shit you like, local or national that's why they make it!!! quit bithchin' Can't put the city on if you don't do YOUR part!!!!!Either way if your not part of the solution then your part of the problem.
The point is that most every "artist" (and I use the term loosely) that complains is the same guys who only want club and radio spins for vaginal purposes. A large number of comments hit the point that you MUST have hustle/grind/work ethic/dedication.
When YOU, yourself don't put any money, time or effort into your project the results will be what was put into it. Most of these guys are LAZY. They point fingers and don't hold THEMSELVES accountable. DJs from those above....Sku, Lights Out, Macc, G-Train and myself ALL started ground level and WORKED to where we are. Not to mention the countless other DJs in the surrounding areas that have invested time, sweat, money and tears into OUR craft. Yet these guys come into clubs that WE have worked with to play a song they have put NO EFFORT into.
To close my rant and ramble....
No one sees the GRIND all they see is the SHINE. Grind come first and foremost and it starts AFTER you have a finished record. The grind starts with PEOPLE because they have to request it in the clubs and on radio for you to be heard. If that's too much to wrap your mind around stop wasting OUR time.
DJ Q (KC)
Derrty DJs
Do WORK!
I can see both sides of the debate.
I have a lot of respect for Kenny Diamondz and appreciate the battle he has chosen to fight on behalf of the local scene. He has done a lot and takes a lot of heat, I admire him to still continue to fight despite of it. I understand that KPRS or any other local station cannot have a completely open door policy for the underground artist of Kansas City because of the sheer number of artists A. and B. because so many of them lack the the requirements of any station be it local or national to begin with. Although, I feel that if the station as a whole supported more of those that are talented, it would do a great service for the music scene in Kansas City.
I cannot be entirely bitter about the local radio stations in Kansas City because O.v.e.r.K.i.l.l. has been interviewed and played on KPRS, on Underground Heat, and KKFI, on the Show Me Mix Show. We have also taken the route to tap into internet radio and are NOT solely dependent on KPRS making either of my artist "blow up".
I do think it is quite unfortunate that KPRS is only giving us the 2-4 hours a week that we do receive however. I certainly do not feel the radio stations OWE local artist anything. Radio stations in Atlanta, Houston, Chicago, STL, and so forth do not OWE their local artist anything either. However those areas receive more support from their stations. As stated previously, it is ridiculous for me to HAVE to go outside of my own local market and then come back, to get radio play outside of the 2-4 hours allotted for local artist.
I also think there is a lot more then JUST the radio pinned against local artist who strive to make it in this town. KPRS has just been the most common. For instance, shockingly, we have received more spins from KPRS, KKFI, and internet radio, then what we have from local DJs, and that is not from a lack of trying. Be that because local DJs are bombarded with local music nightly, they are what seems to most artist the only "outlet" to the masses, or maybe because a lot of local "artist" have made it harder for others because of THEIR lack of talent, drive, structure, or as DJ G Train stated, the common disrespect they feel they receive from artist. I can not deny that there is a large amount of "artist" in the city that do not take their craft serious, lack a true craft, or approach the business table with hood mentality. However what also cannot be denied is there are some extremely talented, dedicated, very educated, business savvy artist who do promote, that aren't given a chance because the latter group has given local artist in general a bad name here.
I have taken the stance of, "It Is What It Is", and me and my artist will go over or through the mountain to get where we are headed. Taking every route possible at once.
My views and opinion are my own and are not the views of my artist or company as a whole.
I am NOT from KC, but I want to thank MG (aka Money Graphics and was the moderator for the call) who tweeted about the conference call and I did call in and listen.
I heard a lot of information shared, and I don't know the battle between the artists and the stations it sounds like the battle many unsigned artists have with radio.
but what I did hear were people on the call giving information to help artists get their music started in the right direction to get played on the radio. How artists need to create thier buzz in the streets and the radio may come to you.
Even the info on BDS was giving out, and someone offered to help them who was a BDS rep.
I heard the flustration and the passion from the people on the call that I have heard in MANY MANY other markets, but being able to have a call like that in the KC area said to me that people in KC care about thier hip hop scene and thats a step in a very possitive direction.
I got to say, that call made me want to look into KC's hip hop scene and learn more about an area that I admittingly know very little about and it seems to be over looked like so many others around the country.
and yes as I see in so many comments--EDUCATION is key.
okay, I've been reading pretty much ALL of you guys comments. here's the thing! I was on the call LIVE and DIRECT! Who am I? Van Brunt Entertainment,Keewuan G. the manager of D-Locc Da Chop,Cash Image,Slopp Da Gambla and Bishop YoungDon.What KC local artist lacks is knowledge of what it takes to get to radio. Radio SHOULD be your LAST thought when breaking a record or promoting
a project. How do I know? Cause I seen it done right before my eyes with my artist. Radio is NOT to blame....PURE GRIND!!
FREE GAME///
Step 1. Understand
your target demographic!!
Step2. create a record to catch your demographics attention.
Step 3.Once you have the RIGHT record,get your business done on it.(IT COSTS YOU NOTHING!!)Be sure your can be purchased somewhere(online would be GREAT!! iTUNES etc.)
Step4.marketing & promotion COSTS
any any corporate world..invest in promo material like FREE SINGLES,DEMOS,MIXTAPES of what you're promoting (min.5k copies/pieces etc.per each market)
Step 5.flood the streets with the promo
Step 6.Once your product is in the streets
then you start pushing to Club DJs and regular Djs in radio and mixshows.
Step7. Once they have your record,you can now try to set up a meeting with the Music Director or the Program Director (Do your research)you must have good people skills when dealing with these people (THEY ARE PROFESSIONAL & NOT FOR THE TIME WAISTING & BS)
And if your record is a strong record,may god bless you!!
First of all, I wasnt trying to start a "Beef" with the radio station!!! I have much respect for Kenny and Brian for the work they have put in at the station...with that being said, The conference call was a success!!! All the ney-sayers can shut the fuck up or dont participate in the conversation!!! Alot was accomplished last night, when have you had that many people even LISTEN to each other at ONCE!!! DJ's, Radio Personalities, Artists, Managers, Promoters, Graphic Artists, everyone!!! What the town needs is KNOWLEDGE and SUPPORT!!! EVERYONE NEEDS TO SUPPORT EACH OTHER!!!
People talk about grinding, I seen people follow ALL of the proper channels, to no avail...ARTISTS need the support of DJs AND Radio!!! Its a catch 22!!! KC radio wont support you unless you have a buzz, outside markets won't support you unless your market supports you!!! How in the hell do you get support???
KC HAS TALENT!!! Artists lack knowledge!!!
I was dropping my son off at daycare and I heard the same song twice within 30 minutes. I put out a twitter asking 103 to put local artists in regular rotation because it would benefit the town. Kenny replied, thats when the Dialogue started. Money Graphics asked everyone to join a chat line later that evening, that simple...this was not a planned event!!! No criteria was set!!! I wasnt concerned about the organization, this is simply the first step to the solution!!!
We are currently checking with all local community centers for availability so we can have a live forum. The first meeting has to address the tension regarding the music scene before we can actually get into a standardized forum. If ANYONE has any POSITIVE suggestions on how to have a forum and address this tension, please call Jaz 816-721-3762
iRep KC!!!
Im pretty impressed with the amount of dialogue & attention that this issue has received these past couple of days. But what I really don't get is why Hot 103 Jamz is being targeted as the "wrong doer" in this campaign. Radio stations don't owe artists ANYTHING. I've only lived in KC for 2 years but have dj'ed in and around this area since 2001 and have seen tons of artists come and go. The ones that are still around are still around for a reason. It comes down to Sacrifice plain and simple. Alot of artists are looking for that "big paycheck" and being "famous" poppin bottles type of image/lifestyle, but fuck all that. Where's ur fan base? are u touring? where's ur buzz? Why haven't I heard of u? blah blah blah...
I can count the number of artists that have a deep fan base around the country on my right hand that are from KC. And all of em got there with NO RADIO PLAY. College radio yes, mainstream radio NO. Artists need to step their fucking game up and quit bitching and pointing the finger at everyone and everything else.
Now I do admit that the Radio market in KC is very fucking LAME. Ive toured extensively with various artists and been exposed to major markets and not so major markets. I just got back from LA yesterday and all their radio stations have a "vibe" thats being masterfully controlled by "real dj's" cutting & scratching, mixing, blending, and airhorns haha! Im sure they have playlists they have to stick to but they do sneak in stuff all the time. There is live mixing happening ALL DAY LONG especially on weekends. It just makes listening to the radio out there that more enjoyable. KC lacks that sort of vibe and energy on its own stations tremendously.
I can go on and on about these issues but I won't because ultimately its everyone's fault as a whole. This "scene" has no "scene" because we cancel it out on our own.
Unfortunately, I was unaware of the event but I do know one thing:
Artist don't need Hot 103 Jamz // better off w/o 'em. Look at Tech N9ne...
...but if I knew two things it would be this:
There will be NO change until there is competition. The model is too profitable otherwise. Marginal-analysis, baby.
DJ Lights Out-
A lot of hip hop from Kansas City isn't about shooting up people and a lot of rappers in KC have a good fan base. We def have a better hip hop scene here then in STL. It's just that corporate radio won't play the music! And it is radio friendly. Radio may not be relevant anyway. D-Locc Da Chop, Cash Image, and tech N9ne don't need radio to make Billboard. I've changed my mind. Radio support is good but local artists need to look beyond the radio. Follow Tech N9ne's grind and you'll succeed.
The bigger picture here is that corporate radio is out to make money. Are you as a local arist or sponsor going to purchase advertising time, etc.? Probably not. This is a major reason why the corporate side of media is not concerned with this issue. An hour or two for special programming dedicated to local musicians is a good idea,unfortunately,just because an artist has recorded an EP doesn't mean its worthy of air time.
Let's say there are copious amounts of talent in KC, many artists are not taking their music seriously or employing resposibility to push their music. As a musician, your music is a business. You need to present yourself and the music with professionalism if you want to be taken seriously. Most people looking to be in the industry just aren't ready and they become confused as to why no one is interested.
1)Take a look at your promo game. What tools are you using other than hittin people up on the street to buy your burned cd thats been written on with a sharpie?
2)Take a look at your product. Sound quality(mixing/recording/levels), printing, multiple formats.
3)Take a look at your live performance, which is part of your product. Practice with sound equipment, djs, etc. before you perform. How can you sell what you do if it looks/sounds unorganized?
4)What makes you stand out from all the rest?
It is important to not forget independent radio! Especially for locals. Get promo packages together and send them to college/community stations and online shows. The internet holds endless possibilities so why get hung up on one little mediocre station in KC!?
Here are a couple of brutal truths.
1. As a person from STL that has been in KC for two years and has been heavily exposed to other radio markets like Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, The Bay, and NYC, there is no hiding that KPRS is no way near as fun to listen to. Most of this has to do with the overall lack of energy and youth, and the lack of at least a daily mixshow. Underground Heat and the Friday Night Mixtape is cool and all, but its only 2-4 hours out of the week. In Saint Louis we have real club DJs mixing and breaking new music on the radio 6-8 times A DAY. This is why records and new artists break alot more frequently in STL.
Since I've been here KPRS has however gotten ALOT better as far as breaking new music instead of being months behind other radio markets.
2. Even if a lot of the rappers in KC had a radio market similiar to the one in STL, MOST OF YALL STILL WOULD NOT BE GETTING ANY PLAY. Let me explain why. Most of yall, and even Tech can be included in this, do NOT make radio accessible music. Do not forget that radio, first and foremost, IS A BUSINESS. People do not want to turn on the radio and hear the 37 Street Thizzle Team rapping about shooting up niggas and popping pills. And furthermore, most of yall have a non existent fanbase. Get more people demanding your music other than your baby mamas and the 3 niggas you been hanging out with since elementary school. Build a fanbase, build a movement. Tech was able to do it by NOT making radio friendly music and building a cult following AROUND THE WORLD. You telling me you can't get more than 10 fans who aren't related to you to like your music in this city? And if you can't, why should the radio be obligated to play your shit? This brings me to point 3.
3. KPRS and even club DJs have NO INCENTIVE WHATSOEVER TO PLAY YOUR SHIT. NONE. ZERO. We get hundreds of brand new songs PER DAY from national artists. They send these songs with bios, album covers and they send them mixed, mastered, clean, dirty, instrumental, and sometimes even the acappella. If I never received another record from Kansas City please believe I will continue to be able to rock every single club in this city. That's just the truth, so I would advise my artists to fall back a bit a learn how to play the game instead of fighting the uphill battle of trying to get the game to conform to you.
DJ LIGHTS OUT
DERRTY DJs
www.djlightsout.net
djlightsout@djlightsout.net
KPRS is a joke! I respect Kenny and Brian of course. But we need more than Underground Heat, Friday Night Mixtape, and Hot 8 At 8. And I have heard Mac play some local music on BCR Radio. Don't forget 90.1 too. The Show Me Mix Show probably plays the most local music. As far as KPRS goes I've heard Tech N9ne once during the day. The other local artists I've heard at night. That's ridiculous. Tech N9ne is the top independent rapper in the world. Tech has established himself everywhere and he still doesn't get radio play. I was there but I wish I had been. Radio is dead anyway. Peep my local hip hop blog, Harper. http://credentialshiphop.blogs...
The radio is garb. From 103 to 100000003 it does not matter. You will hear who ever is cutting the bigger check. KC radio is one of the last stations to play the hot joints that every other station is playing. I have been to a few states and cities in my time they clown the KC radio industry because it is lame.
103 Jamz has always had b.s. djs on there. Can anyone tell me what dj's on that station can actually dj? (mix,scratch,cut,etc..)
KC artist unite like the USA that is a joke if you clowns cannot decipher that.
Hot 103 Jamz where do I start. Let me turn the radio on okay let me turn the radio off. The same 10 songs play over and over again. You say this is not the stations fault? Underground heat who are these artist? I am not trying to hate but it seems as if who ever is picking the music for underground heat has damaged ears. As you may know nobody listens to the radio as much and it will keep declining. As some of you artist have already done you need to start your own label and your own station via internet or radio depending on your budget. I am sure this happens in many cities through out the country but most radio stations are corporate ran not private. 103 claims to be privately ran but with corporate intentions just my 2 pennies now I will keep it moving and DESTROY every radio I see.
@SKILZ: 95.7 is Top 40 now.
Earlier this year, a big class of Paseo writing students came by the Pitch. I took a poll, and every single one of those kids said they get most of their music from the Internet.
There's a difference between people who are fans of music and people who are fans of radio.
Props to DJ G Train who hit it right on the head. I agree with almost everything he said.
It all comes down to this, if you're hot enough, you wouldn't even be in this convo because we would have played you. We can't deny listeners who call and request you, okay, let's get that straight. If you have the demand, you're gonna get played. Should we do a better job of playing more locals outside of Underground Heat & Friday Night Mixtape? Yes, I agree 100%.
But what do you all want Kenny and I to do? What else are we supposed to do? Kenny has put money, time, and effort into Underground Heat, and ya'll are going to treat it like this? I'm not going to stand for you all treating it like this after all he has went through to try and give you all an avenue to get heard. GET YOUR WEIGHT UP AND NOT YOUR HATE UP.
Not to bust anyone's bubble......but i havent heard of all the names thats being dropped of 'everyone who is anyone in kansas city' at this meeting lol
sounds like everyone who was at this meeting are victims of having wack ass people jocking them so hard.....
seems like this is a small fraternity of people who will not let anyone else in.....
which im not from Kansas City but KC is a big part of me....Im gonna try my damn hardest to put this city on the map WITH or WITHOUT this 'local fraternity'
PLUS RAPPERS IF YOU DONT HAVE THE HUSTLE, SHUT UP WHINNING ABOUT RADIO PLAY AND GET YOUR DELIVERY CORRECT...
BTW IM NOT A RAPPER
"They're either to big for their britches, or just another crab in the barrel to me."
you just described the entire population!!
I keep hearing the same BS. Does radio think we were born yesterday. What about the local hip hop emcee's (not rappers) who have been around. Perform damn near every weekend, have reviews, even cover stories on the pitch, and have their business straight. We know why you won't just put anybody on the radio, that's not the problem. Honestly, I've met, and know a lot of the radio DJ's for all the different stations. They're either to big for their britches, or just another crab in the barrel to me.
I was on the call last night, and I feel like little was accomplished. Even though, it was a move in the right direction. I FELT that, there was to many "Rapper" and not enough "Emcees". As a dj, that does all kinds of shows, from the clubs to the independent hip hop shows. I feel that there wasn't a fair or adequate representation of the underground hip hop scene for whatever reason. Maybe they werent told about it, or maybe they cared not to participate. Either way, the majority of the people on the phone were Rappers that either look at 103 as a savior or a master or fortune. When everyone on the line was talking about we dont have a hip hop scene like other cities, I encourage those people to look past the "baller, shoot callers" into the real musicians and emcees that Kc does have to offer. No offense to the people on the line, but it seemed to me that they were just looking to point fingers at 103 for not giving them a chance to make a quick buck. It wasn't about supporting local Hip and cultivating a relationship that will benefit both sides in the future.
In respects to 103 not showing love to KC artists, I see both sides of this argument. From the 103 side, they CANNOT afford to lose any listeners in this small market. That's why we dont have jazz and gospel all day every sunday anymore. People werent tuning in. Radio stations close down all the time, and 103 has been able to keep the doors open by sticking to their format and adapting to what is "popular urban music. Not many other music stations in this market can say that. With that being said, they are not willing at times and in the positions at times to give John Doe a shot. Especially when, a lot of these artists that approach 103 dont have their business straight.
From the artist standpoint I FEEL THAT, 103 has little to lose and so much more to gain by supporting the local music scene, and that doesnt have to be by just spins, it can be interviews, shows, conferences to name a few ways that could reach out to this untapped resource and help to formulate a fully functional underground scene much like other cities.
To the artists, get your business right!!! Make it so 103 cant deny you a la "So Heavy" and "Box Chevy". Make it so 103 is checking for you!! Not the other way around, remember its a business. And if your Hot, they cant deny you. If the people are calling in and requesting your music, 103 will play it. FAN BASE! Get into the community and make noise, let people know you are serious about your craft.
As far as MOST artists, go in KC, is recording music and posting it online...simply not enough. You need to contact the Pitch, The DJ's, the Radio stations and everyone else you encounter everyday. Bottom line, if you deliver a professional product and your music is hot. People will take notice.
As a person that has grown up in Kc and been djing KC for almost 8 years here, I have found it hard just to get some artists to give me their music...this has been greatly baffling to me. As a DJ that doesn't just do clubs or just do indy events. I have the power and opportunities to play your music. But for what ever reason, I have to literally hunt down and beg artist for their music. So no, I don't blame 103 for not playing local artists, cause these artist don't even get with dj's to get some kind of buzz built for their music.
I'm only gonna briefly address the mass amounts of disrespect that KC DJ'S have to deal with on a regular. As a younger dj in KC, I have been straight disrespected from all sides...when it comes to just playing music in KC. And that is another issue that really needs to be address. In other cities, DJ's get WAAAAAAY more love and support from both radio and artist. And for some reason, in KC, artist and radio feel like they dont need a dj...and thats ass backwards. I get more love in Lawrence and Columbia than I do IN my home town.
THIS IS NOT A GAME, IT'S A BUSINESS AND PEOPLE NEED TO START TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR FUTURES!
Ask Tech, if he gives a f@uck if 103 plays his songs.....
Man f*ck 103 as a station. Are there a few DJ's and persons on staff that fight the good fight, definitely. But that whole don't blame us attitude is BS. They seem to have no problems sneaking in a few local rap songs. I've heard Cash Image on 103 (not during hot 8 at 8, and not on underground heat either). I've yet to hear even a promo for any local hip hop artist. All in all I think it's not so much as a blame game, but the local hip hop scene is honestly looking for answers. Besides I'd rather make it on my own (hard as it may be) than to sign a deal with the devil any day.
This is like a never ending debate. 103 plays local music, the problem is a majority of locals aren't even in the radar within their local market, atleast not like they think they are. Several KC artist have a small buzz within there neighborhood, and think the Djs and radio owe them something. I've heard local artist hit the hot 8 at 8 several times, but those artist also promoted themselves for months leading up to that radio exposure. Local artist have to learn how to promote outside of facebook, myspace, and twitter, and learn how to build a buzz to the point the radio will come to you. Learn how to promote themselves as a product, and not a rapper. Learn how to promote yourself through mixtapes, and not trying to sell them for $5, with the Fruity color slim cd case, etc...I support KC radio, it's all we got, and it is what it is. Don't point the finger at the radio and Djs, need to learn how to point it at ya self.
103.3fm KPRS is not the end of radio.And I'm not defending 103 but artist why is'nt anyone given HELL to the other station in the town like 95.7 go to the DJ's and directors up there and see if they'll play ya? 90.1 they play local music!!! Or is it that ya'll just what 103 to play ya? I can care less if 103 every plays me.I done painted a bigger picture then just 103. Come on artist get out ya'll feelings and if taken ya'll music outside the box of KC to blow GO FOR IT!!!!
are we forgetting that mac has a radio show too on 96.5? he chooses the music as well. you hear any locals?
Do people still listen to the radio? hahaha...
Start your own stations, start your own labels, DIY, right?
That said, KKFI is about the only thing we locals have going for us (also Robert Moore and this person with the local show on KPRS) - radio-wise. Give them support and pity the others that don't catch up.
KC has a wild amount of talent.
For those of you who are new to the KC music game; understand that we go through this every 5 years or so. I just like to spark the debate because I'm always interested in seeing how it plays out. "keep Hope Alive" (Jesse Jackson voice)lol
KPRS is coporate but at the same timne its privatly owned. So I agree with you Reach. But our situation is a little more unique. I have all the respect in the world for Kenny and Bryan you guys got a whole town on your shoulders in my opinion. However if you sittin on the Thrown(KPRS) you subject to the shots. And kenny I have to disagree about the IDGAF campaign. If your aim is to be underground and raw and gritty and reach those fans thats the perfect campaign. I guess it depends on what you trying to accomplish. I view songs as conversations that inspire you to think or move or whatever. But if your concern is commercial success than you may want to stary away from the IDGAF campaigns i agree on that aspect.i also agree that it was a good discussion. anytime you can awaken peoples passion its a good thing. I'm sure its all gonna work out as a positive in the end.
All I have to say,KC artist dont let 103.3 kill ya'll sprit as a artist keep pushin on and sometimes you have to push outside the KC box. We know what KENNY is tryin to do for the town and we also know what 103.3 is tryin to do for the town. RIGHT? We as artist have to look beyond the 103 ideal.Sometimes the ideal that you have for 103 is not the ideal 103 has for you. And artist Underground Heat is not the end of radio ya'll, neither is 103. So get out ya'll feelin cause ya'll cant get noplay. I got hott music KENEY,SEAN,TONY,JT,everybody up at 103 knows it and Ive been doin it longer then half the artist in the bizz in the town and no play. But I'm not gone cry I'm gone keep it pushin. Sometimes you got take what you got hott and get out the BOX. And the funny thing is ya'll been knowin has the TOWN is!!! Aint nothing never gone change here but the weather.And I'm sure KENNy and THEm up at 103 is not gone NOT eat cause ur in ur feels bout not gettin no play and that all I got to say.
I was unable to attend the discussion, and I am glad that it is happening. But to be honest, as an artist, we have made it this far without the radio's support, why should that change now?
It would be nice to have there support, but there are so many avenues to promote our art, the radio is the last thing on my mind.
What about the "local" artists that are doing (positive). "newsworthy" things. I think it's sad that KC artists have to go outside of our home-market in order to make any beginning steps towards success. We (Anarchy Tour) walked into a major radio station in Austin, spoke with the GM and DJ, and got a live interview and airplay instantly. I'm not saying KPRS should open the floodgates, but one weekly-hour during a "club night" is like a smack to the face of the local artistry. KPRS is either saying, "Treat these crumbs we're giving you as if they're gold," or "KC isn't talented." I'm not buying either. To our "locals": They don't want to be on board, so please, stop trying to force them to get it right. They're happy doing them, so you gotta do you.
p.s. If I EVER got airplay at KPRS, I can almost guarantee, it was an accident. LOL
what i took away from the whole thing was...
1:artist need more education on the industry and "buzz-building" before pointing fingers anywhere but @ themselves
2:the radio station can do ALOT more 2 support the local talent...and give artists more of a sense of "we're on the same team" instead of coming off as "the man"
so knowing both of these things i was inspired more than anything 2 take my grind above and beyond, leaving no stone unturned, so that before i can place blame on the radio, ive made sure 2 meet all of their requirements. If there is still no cooperation.. STARTING A NEW STATION IN DIRECT COMPETITION WITH 103.3 MIGHT BE THE ONLY ANSWER.
but overall even with all the chaos/negativity (which i belive will smooth itself out as we continue to unify) i definitely feel it was a positive step towards waking up kc's music scene... i look forward 2 more!!!
-PHENOM'
Thanks for chiming in, Kenny and Bryan. I commend you guys for showing up. I wish *I* had been there! (Christos gave me the call, but I was indisposed.)
One thing that's clear is that there's a lot of unity right now among local artists on this issue. Why not capitalize on that unifying energy and start up KC's first online hip-hop radio station? A guy in Leawood can do it with indie rock. Why not rap?
First of all, I'm not nor have I ever been a fan of 103.3. Not because of the music they don't play but because of the music they do play. With that said, I'm disappointed that I wasn't aware that this was going to happen. I think that it's a shame of sorts that all the local talent isn't represented by the only predominately hip hop radio station in our city. Hopefully, through this and future communications there will be some form of compromise met.
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