photo by steed media service

All too often, women are referred to by the infamous B-word when they venture onto stomping grounds that are traditionally dominated by men. Ms. Smiley, Detroit’s Hot 102.7 radio personality and music director, brushes the ‘hateration’ off her shoulders like dust.

“It is [hard],” she admits, “because it’s a male-dominated industry. Mixers are usually men and [with] me coming in they looked at me like, ‘you’re going to tell us what to do?’ It’s cool now, but it’s hard because ... a lot of people just don’t accept the fact [that] a woman is in charge of things.” Nevertheless, Ms. Smiley is not discouraged by naysayers and remains focused on doing her job, and doing it well.

“I’m basically responsible for national and local music; finding it, making sure it gets on the radio, researching it, [and] making sure we’re on top of all the new stuff,” she explains.

Ms. Smiley asserts that there is only one surefire way for artists to secure a spot in rotation. “Overall it has to be a hit,” she states. “Whether you’re a new artist or an established artist, the song just has to be a hit.”

And for those up-and-coming artists who want to know the secret to getting an attentive ear from radio, she shares these words of wisdom, “Don’t sell it. Don’t sell me your music, don’t tell me how hot you are, [and] don’t tell me that this is what the D’s been missing. Put it on and let the song speak for itself.” - janaya black

For more information, visit www.hot1027.com.


Share this article with a friend