"You deejays make all that BIG MONEY!" Well...some do, some don't. It's all about the deal that's struck with management. Deejays who are connected to revenue streams typically pull better salaries. I've done at least 7 critical negotiations with management at WLRS-FM, then WQMF-FM, and then a series of revolving deals with the various managers of WHAS Radio and television over the past 45 years. WHAS Radio news anchors recently discovered a treasure trove of station documents, including this 1943 contract for staff announcer and "specialty man" services. There were also rates for singers, musicians, actors, and sound effects specialists. Here is a 1976 proposal from WKQQ/Lexington program director Dick Hungate to his manager requesting to unplug the automation and switch to live
Tag: pay scale
Underpaid deejays and the changing broadcast game
Is radio dead? Is TV dead? Nope. But there is a reframing of information flow. A recent poll lists broadcasting as one of today's worst career choices. You may be surprised to learn how little most TV and radio people earn. Others predict the end of talk radio following the 2016 elections. No way. Local talk shows allow each city's residents to weigh in on local issues. The local radio station is the kitchen table where everyone can throw in their two cents or at least eavesdrop on those who do. I completely love my 40 year broadcast career and have rarely regretted choosing it. I have learned 10 million things by talking with a zillion people on