The Infinite Dial

Title: Executive Producer of the Rickey Smiley Morning Show, Syndication One

Who is Tazz "Daddy"? "Tazz has been involved in radio for almost 2 decades, starting out as a part time co-host for "Kids Corner" on WXPN-FM, the University of Pennsylvania's radio station before he entered junior high school! As his skills and experience improved, Tazz was given the responsibility of Production Assistant for the show. At age 13, he and the show received a prestigious Peabody award for excellence in children's programming, making him the youngest African-American to receive the honor. In the late 90's Tazz secured a position at WPHI, Philly 103.9, as the Associate Producer of the "Home Team" morning show. With the support of its fans, the show was named the #1 non-syndicated morning show by the Jenny Jones show. Shortly thereafter, Tazz received his MBA from Temple University, having completed an accelerated course of study with honors. After his success at WPHI and several other stations, Tazz decided to work independently on several radio projects. He started one of the most successful Internet radio stations in the business and started a web design, voice over and production company. Even today, his promos and comedy bits can be heard on stations across the country. Tazz's talents eventually lead him to Dallas, where he worked as the #1 Night host for KKDA. Having retired from on-air work, Tazz has concentrated his skills on the "Rickey Smiley and Deez Nuts" Morning show, as its Executive Producer, leading the show to victory in over 15 Markets! Tazz's love for children has earned him numerous awards and recognition, including the Philadelphia Mayor's award for community service, numerous citations from schools and Universities, special recognition from former President Clinton, as well as the Boys and Girls clubs of America. In his spare time, Tazz works on other aspects of his entertainment career. He's written 2 books, including "The Handbook" - a guide to understanding Urban Radio. Tazz enjoys performing on stage as a motivational speaker and standup comedian. He also is a main contributor to Urbaninsite.com and heads their production room. He and his lovely wife Oshena, own a Media firm and Production house called Code-Blu Media. In addition, Tazz founded Urban Radio Coach, LLC, to guide up and coming talents through the radio industry."

What would your dream job be? "I really enjoy doing what I'm doing now. My dream job is to consult and coach the next generation of up and coming talent. As much as I love this industry, many people have taken on a "look out for number one" mentality. I want today's talent to know to that there is someone they can turn to. So in pursuit of my dream, I've started Urban Radio Coach, LLC. We offer products and consulting at affordable prices."

Who has been your greatest influence? "My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In the business, I'd have to say that my Uncle, Kernie Anderson was my biggest influence. He has been a GM in more major markets than anyone I know. When I was a child, I got to watch how he led and inspired his staff to greatness. He encouraged me to major in English, which helped me to become a better talent."

What is the one format that you can't believe nobody has done? "Okay! CAN SOMEONE TELL ME WHY THERE ISN'T AN OLDSCHOOL HIP-HOP FORMAT?!?!?! Please forgive me for yelling, but when you have people who are 25-44 who grew up on hip-hop, why wouldn't you devote a format to them? I would throw in some Run-DMC, Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, Some SWV and TLC and keep it banging! The Movin format does hip-hop (lite) for soccer mom's but I'm talking about an anti-Soulja Boy format here without the pop princesses."

How could radio do a better job of attracting younger listeners? "Radio needs to be a portal for everything pop-culture. So many times, radio tries to compete with other forms of media instead of embracing them. On the RSMS, I make sure we talk about what's hot on I-Tunes, the latest funny bit on youtube, and who should be next to go home on American Idol. It is what being plugged in is all about."

How will radio remain relevant in a digital world? "We still have the advantage if we position ourselves correctly. We must use our station and show websites to give folks instant access. The phone lines are not enough. Neither is email. We are a part of the microwave generation. People want instant gratification in every aspect of life. The station and its website must work as a cohesive juggernaut to provide content relevant to the target audience. The station that gives them exactly what I've outlined in question 4 and more will always be relevant."