Thank you for the kind words Mick. Everyone should remember that the suggestions I made are not set in stone, nor are they "standard" in this industry. The notes I posted are based on my tastes AND the general feedback I've heard from other hosts on Folk-DJ and at the Folk Alliance.   Some program hosts have different tastes and needs so it is always a good idea to contact the host you are targeting and ask them some questions.

Do not let a lack of response be the final answer, but do not become a "pest". If you've done your homework and are 100% convinced that your music will fit on that particular show, send the CD anyway. You will only lose the cost of postage and CD. Remember that program hosts are consumers, and if you feel comfortable with the package that you are presenting, you've done your best.   If you are worried about rejection, you probably shouldn't be making CD's in the first place!

I know of one folk DJ that thought a particular artist was too "pushy" in the way she contacted him, yet I felt the same artist was just doing their job and was very polite. I also felt that her music was wonderful and my audience responded in kind, yet the other DJ never bothered to open her CD because he was put off by her approach.

I can also tell you about one particular promoter who represents "folk" artists that are far from my wide definition of the music. He will send me e-mails asking why I do not respond and continue to make requests for "feedback". While I completely understand his need to promote his artists (he is getting paid by them to plug their CD's)it bothers me when it is obvious that he never took the time to figure out what I do and what I require - even after I explained it to him. He still seems to disregard the way I compose my show, so I end up ignoring him.   That can happen. I'm glad this is a rare exception rather than the rule.

Most of us are only on the air for a few hours each week.   I have three hours, plus one that is for a "Celtic"-based show. I also do interviews that can take up to an hour out of my alloted time. I must receive a minimum of a dozen CD's each week. During the Folk Alliance, that number can literally become 100 or more. I was on the formal showcase committee for NERFA, and I had the pleasure of receiving over 250 CD's. If a new artist is decent, they might receive one or two airings a month. I try to offer as much diversity and new artists/recordings as possible, but I also have "favorites" that I love to play and my audience expects.   What I am getting at is this - artists should understand the amount of airplay that they will receive. While it may seem small, it actually can make a difference. A number of clubs and coffeehouses personnel listen to my show in the NYC area and it can lead to bookings and new fans.

Sorry for being long-winded, and I hope I am clear when I say - nothing is set in stone. We are all different and the suggestions I share are just a few that appeal to me as well as what I've heard from SOME of my peers. There are a lot out there... do the homework. Above all, keep making such great music! I've been doing radio since 1975, my folk show since 1980, and this is beyond a doubt the most creative period I've witnessed.

Ron