We recently connected with M-16 and have shared our conversation below.

M-16, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

My father was an on air talent back in the late 70’s and into the 80’s on the top urban radio station in Baton Rouge, LA and was very popular. When I was old enough to go to the station I would watch my Dad and he was excellent on the air. He was informative, witty, and innovative and I remembered being enamored with what he did. I even started reading and recording public service announcements as young as 6 years old. Even through all this I was hesitant to follow what he was doing even though I knew deep down this is what I should be doing even as a child. Had I embraced it instead of rebelling I may have gotten further sooner. I feel like the most essential skills for radio/podcasting is studying your craft. Study the greats the ones with longevity and the ones who aren’t afraid to be different and borrow from them and make it your own.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am one of the co-hosts of The Radio Show ATL which airs on YouTube and all audio podcast providers. We are a hip hop variety show that combines pop culture talk along with showcasing up and coming artists from all over the world by presenting their music to the audience. The show while deeply rooted in hip hop is very humorous, self deprecating, and at times having serious discussions on issues that affect the black community including race, the economy, and politics. I feel we are the most unique listening and or watching experience you can find when consuming radio/podcasts. One of the biggest things I am proud of is that we have been a top 200 podcast on Apple Podcasts in our category of music commentary. It’s an accomplishment that can never be taken away from us and help truly solidify our credibility.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding part of this journey is being able to play the music of hard working artists who allow us to play their music. It feels good to help them promote their craft and in a lot of cases give them their first taste of radio play. It’s very satisfying to be in a position to help and contribute to their success.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

I would say never close the door on working with people. Relationships are important and sometimes it good to check your ego at the door. I’m open to work with whoever I can create good content with even if it’s someone I may not like personally because you do not have to be best friends in business. If we can come together and make magic that all that matters. So always keep your options open when it comes to business relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/itstheradioshow
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itstheradioshow/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itstheradioshow/
• Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/theradioshowatl
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@theradioshowatl?si=72VdPSJ0pDoj_1tu
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/4WAUBKUmziDvdgHngUh4Q2?si=TqYcFdGsSC-nPeGeVyX8YQ

Image Credits

M-16, EZ, ATL Diva, Tiki Blue, Khujeaux, The Jerk