Just a little while ago, I did a blog entry edging toward "rant" territory about KTCL and my opinion on their involvement in local music.

This morning, I got a response from NERF, program director and on-air pesonality at KTCL. NERF, being a generally classier guy than I am, handled it well. With his permission, I'm taking his response public.

The Reply:
Thank you... I guess... for the backhanded compliments. For a guy who "keeps things positive" you're really kicking the tires on this thing. Just to sift out some of the myth from the facts, here's some things you should know.

1. Contrary to popular opinion, Clear Channel has nothing to do with what music gets played on this station. No exceptions. The music is picked by myself, Boney (our music director), Bailey (Mid-Days), Brad White (Promotions Director), and more than anyone else, the people who fill out our music surveys. If they don't like it, it doesn't get played.

2. I came up with Home Town For The Holidays to do one thing, expose local music to a bigger audience. This isn't a ploy by corporate overlords to devour minds or club seals... it's Channel 93.3 (KTCL) trying to do something positive for the local scene.

3. In just about every other weekly music meeting, we listen to at least one local artist. Many of whom go into the music surveys to be rated by our listeners.

4. I hosted Locals Only (our local music showcase Sunday Nights) 7 years ago. It's had quite a few hosts, and lots of changes, but it's been on the air playing local music for over 10 years. Alf is by far the best jock to host it. He does a killer job and deserves serious credit.

5. I listen to everything I'm sent. Not all bands are ready for airplay. I try to get back to everyone with my take on music I'm sent, but it's difficult to do with the number of submissions I get. Most Program Directors don't even open mail that is from unsolicited sources. Being the music geek that I am, I just can't be that way. I have to give it a chance.

6. John, if you have questions about how we work here at Channel 93.3 give me a call or an email. I'd be happy to tell you anything you'd like to know. Nerf@area93.com

So then:
Was I too hard on them? Not hard enough? Maybe we're both missing the point. Drop a comment and let me know.