ENTERTAINMENT : INTERVIEW : TANNER CHAMBERS

by Lindsey Powers

Entertainment & Music Guest Blogger

Tanner Chambers serves as the Digital Producer and Co-Host for The Fitz Show and is the Chief Writer for The Hit List, North America's number one country countdown show. Chambers first got his start at Radio 88.1 The Burg, Central Washington University's local station and quickly rose through the ranks and earned himself a spot as the station's music director by his Sophomore year. At only age 21, Tanner is the youngest producer in commercial radio in the 13th biggest market in the country (Seattle), as well as being part of a nationally syndicated show. His skills are varied, his success is impressive, but his most notable achievement (in my humble opinion) is getting to call me his girlfriend.

Author's Note:

It's hard not to brag, but Tanner has worked incredibly hard to get to where he is today. He is one of the most self-motivated individuals I have ever known, which is why I chose to interview him and get his advice for anyone looking to enter the commercial radio industry.

LP: Who is your biggest radio inspiration?

TC: My greatest radio inspiration is Zane Lowe. Zane recently launched Beats 1 Radio that is run through Apple Music. He has a phenomenal presence on-air and he's always stayed true to his craft. His interviews are impeccable and he is the leading force of a multi-media disk jockey. His career goes beyond radio. It includes video, podcasting, playlist curation, music programming and on-air duties.

LP: What do you currently do and how did you get that position?

TC: As of right now, I am an on-air talent and a digital producer for 'The Fitz Show', a nationally syndicated radio show that spans over 45 cities across the United States. I also am the Chief Writer of a music countdown show called 'The Hit List', which spans over 90 cities across the United States. I got the position because I interned for the show and I earned a permanent spot after the internship. I earned more responsibilities as the show progressed in the past year.

LP: What are the most challenging aspects of a career in radio?

TC: We live in a world that is developing, exponentially, every day. Having technology and the internet changing how we listen to music and radio, we have to ensure that we keep a multi-media presence in order to stay relevant.

LP: What unique qualities does a radio career offer you?

TC: Radio gives me the ability to see the music, scales and entertainment industry come hand-and-hand. In a radio company, you work with unique people and use different ideologies and perceptions to come up with a one sound product.

LP: How do you keep from getting burned out when you are surrounded by music all the time? What keeps music fresh for you?

TC: For me, working in morning radio, you don't actually have time to sit back and listen to the music. We are too busy compiling stories, bits and production to be able to give our listeners the best entertainment we can.

LP: What advice can you give to someone looking to pursue a radio career?

TC: Don't give up. I have to be honest, radio is incredibly difficult to get into and it isn't for everyone. If you really want to be in radio, make your presence knowns and be as persistent as you can be. Persistence isn't annoying to people in radio, it shows that you care.

For more information on Tanner Chambers, visit his Instagram: @tannerchambers

FOR MORE CONTENT BY LINDSEY POWERS, VISIT HER INSTAGRAM: @lindseympowers_