Tommy Del Rio grew up with a very strong desire to be on the radio at a young age. He’s a real radio guy who enjoys the business no matter what the market size, or the company. As OM/PD of Buckley Broadcasting’s KSEQ (Q97) in Fresno, Tommy’s mission is simple, create great radio, and have fun while doing it!
Tommy Del Rio
Tommy Del Rio like many of those in the medium today grew up with a desire to be on the radio at a young age. His career would begin at KDON/Salinas-Monterey where he hosted nights and afternoons from 1995-1998. Then it was onto KWWV/San Luis Obispo where he got his first taste of music programming as APD/MD and afternoon host. In 2000, Tommy joined Buckley Radio as OM/PD of KSEQ and KIOO/Fresno-Visalia. In 2002, he would tack on additional duties at KKBB/Bakersfield, and in 2004 he headed to San Diego as OM/PD at XMOR. Then it was on to KBMB/Sacramento as OM/PD in 2005.
By 2006 Del Rio found himself back in a familiar place, again, as OM/PD of KSEQ and KIOO. He would also add additional duties at KYZZ/Salinas-Monterey in 2007. Tommy is a real radio guy, always has been, and nowadays he’s enjoying the business he always knew he wanted to be a part of more than ever. No matter what the market size, or the company ,Tommy Del Rio is all about creating great radio, it’s what he was born to do!
eQB presents excerpts from the October FMQB magazine
Rhythm Up Close: KSEQ (Q97)/Fresno OM/PD Tommy Del Rio
“I have shifted KSEQ to have an even balance of Rhythmic and Pop records now over the last few years. This has improved our upper demos and definitely makes the station more client friendly. The Rhythm format is in a great place right now. But, as we know, it is cyclical. I’m sure it will shift again over the next few years.”
“I have always used about 50 percent gut. But nowadays, I tend to look at digital sales, iTunes, ring tones, and other digital outlets where listeners are downloading and buying their music.”
“I think mix shows are important if you have mix show DJs that can create a ‘vibe’ that a listener can gravitate towards and remember you by. If a mixer is just going to play off an approved mix show list, then the PD might as well just schedule the hour on his/her own. But, if a mixer can take that list and be creative with mash-ups, the right break beats and throw in those certain “Awww sh-t!” records, then you’ve got yourself a solid mix show.”
“What I like most about social media is that the station’s name and logo are constantly in front of listeners’ faces and ears. I think this is crucial when you are in a diary rated market and trying to stay top of mind.”
“I think we have all learned to wear multiple hats over the last few years. And, having the knowledge of multiple formats will make you a valuable asset to any company. I think good programming should be good programming no matter what market size.”
“As much as we think listeners get their music and gossip online, they still turn to radio to hear the hits and get updated on Pop culture. They may not listen as much as they used to, but they still listen. So make sure it’s the best programming at all times.”
** QB Content by Bob Burke **
