Interview With:
Katherine Phan
Concord
Tell us a bit about the career path that led to where you are now.
I began my journey as a college lifestyle representative for a marketing company called ‘stache media under RED Distribution. ‘stache and becoming a DJ at my college radio station led me to my first internship in the business development department at Warner Chappell. After a semester in publishing, I moved over to the label side of the industry and interned in the radio promotion at Atlantic Records, synch/licensing at Glassnote, and streaming with Ninja Tune. I graduated in 2019, and landed back in radio promotion with Concord.
What is your favorite experience you’ve had in your career? Perhaps a musical idol you got to meet? A festival you were able to attend? A project you were involved with promoting?
One of my internships gave me and a friend the opportunity to attend Coachella for free while promoting Arizona Tea beverages. After finishing our shift each evening, we were able to explore the festival grounds and catch sets from both our favorite artists and ones we’ve just discovered that day. I was super stoked to see M83 perform songs from Hurry Up, We’re Dreaming. Happy 10th anniversary to such an amazing record!
What aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?
Working with a supportive and strong team that empowers and is empowered by each other. Great work always comes from a tight unit, and having that here with the Concord promotion team really motivates me to do my best.
What band/artist or style of music outside the realm of your college/community radio promotion would people be most intrigued to hear you love?
I am super basic and used to be OBSESSED with One Direction in high school. One time, my friend and I asked to use our English teacher’s computer to watch the video premiere of “Kiss You,” because the student wifi blocked certain platforms like Youtube (shout out to you, Ms. Kent). I still support the members and their music today.
What job do you think you would have if you weren’t in this industry?
I’d like to work for the National Park Service.
What destination would you most like to visit and why?
The Great Pyramid Of Giza in Egypt. It’s the oldest of the 7 ancient wonders of the world and the only one still standing. I want to witness structure for its vast history and culture before it succumbs.
You just won 10 million dollars. What are you going to do with it?
Buy my parents the house they always wanted, donate some to charity, and purchase a tempur-pedic bed. Anyone else young with back issues?
Entertainment Time: What is/are your current favorite TV obsession(s)? What’s a great movie (new or old) you’ve watched recently? What is your current favorite album?
I’m very late to the Cobra Kai game, but that show is amazing. Equal parts new and honoring the original Karate Kid franchise. I will always stand by Whiplash as my favorite movie of all time. Everything about it – the acting, film editing, score is just perfect. The Waterfall II was my favorite album of 2020; I’m excited to hear My Morning Jacket’s self-titled and have it be the soundtrack to the autumn season.
Do you have a favorite restaurant in town for take out or to take out-of-town guests to?
Edley’s Bar-B-Que aka the best barbeque. I firmly stand by this.
You’re stranded on a desert island. What five well known people (dead or alive) would you like to have there with you?
I’m probably going to change my answer over and over again, but here is my current list: FDR, Walt Disney, Amelia Earhart, Ian Brown, and Damon Albarn.
