Today we’d like to introduce you to Neal Losey.
Hi Neal, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Sharing music has always been a passion. Took records to show and tell. Taped stuff off the radio to play for friends. Worked in record stores to turn people on to music. Got involved with KCPR, Cal Poly’s radio station in 89. Volunteered at KCBX in 93. Got the full time job as Music Director and host of Morning Cup in 1997. Also worked in commercial radio at KBEAR, KOTR, The Beach in the 90s and 2000s.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Actually, it has been pretty easy. I didn’t get accepted on my first try at KCPR. KCBX kinda pursued me for the job in 97. Took a while to get the format changed to what it is today (more freeform and eclectic than 100% Jazz.) But mostly I am super lucky to get to do something I love in a place I love. The threat to Public Radio is pretty scary but we have great listeners supporting us, which is what we need to continue on into the future.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a DJ. Not a robot, Not an algorithm. One of the last full time radio DJs. I do my show 100% live, no voice tracking. I am on the air from 9am to noon every weekdays and 9pm to midnight most Saturdays. My daytime show is the Morning Cup, which is a program about good music of all sorts. Americana, Alternative, Indie Jazz, Blues, Soul, Funk, Bluegrass, AAA, World, Latin, Reggae, etc. Proud of the fact I can mix a variety of genres of music together because of my love of many different styles of music. The Saturday night show, Night Train, is all Funk, Soul, R&B. I love that show because it is so much fun to do.
I am also the Music Director for the station. I curate the music used by the DJs
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Oooh, I am kinda lone wolf.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kcbx.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kcbxfm/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbxfm/
