Five Questions with Boom FM Radio Host Dylan Black

Interview by Jason Setnyk | Submitted Photo

Cornwall, Ontario – Dylan Black is originally from Vankleek Hill, Ontario. He graduated from the Radio Broadcasting program at Loyalist College in Belleville in 1999. Dylan is proud to celebrate 26 years since starting his media journey. He’s currently a Host and the Assistant Music Director at Boom 99.7 in Ottawa, which plays music from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

In addition, Dylan also has a Friday night show and fills in occasionally on Boom 101.9 in Cornwall. From radio to being a Yuk Yuk’s Ottawa team member, he’s living the dream every day.

Five Questions with The Seeker

1 – Can you discuss your background and how you got into radio broadcasting?

“When I was a student at Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute, one of my responsibilities as Student Council President was to read the morning announcements. I absolutely loved it! People often mentioned that I had a particular talent for delivering the daily messages. After trying out Teachers College at Trent University in Peterborough, I came to the realization that my true calling was in broadcasting.”

2 – How do you prepare for your shows and choose the music you play?

“For me, as the Assistant Music Director for Boom 99.7, show prep is 24/7. It requires me to stay up-to-date with the latest news and information. Delivering a show that captivates and holds the audience’s attention is crucial! In my role, I’m responsible for not only choosing the music for my show but also for the entire station, including every daypart, while adhering to specific guidelines that have been established.”

3 – Can you discuss any unique or creative elements you bring to your shows?

“At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in the spring of 2020, I established Shout-Out Saturdays on Boom 99.7 to provide small businesses, musicians, charities, and others with a chance to be recognized on the airwaves. It’s a free service that has assisted countless individuals throughout the listening area. To me, it’s crucial to create memorable on-air moments for listeners that they will never forget, and this personal touch makes radio truly magical!”

4 – How do you interact with listeners and build a relationship with your audience?

“For me, community is a top priority. There was a point in my career when I would attend at least one event per day! I strongly believe that if you want people in your city to tune in, you need to get to know them. Sometimes, it’s not just about the product itself; it’s about the experience that accompanies it. To support non-profits, I have created “Birthday Extravaganzas” that help raise funds and awareness. Additionally, I established a yearly memorial blood donor clinic in December to honour my parents, and to date, I have donated 109 units of whole blood. As the Fundraising and Community Events Coordinator at Yuk Yuk’s comedy club, I also remain committed to serving the community.”

5 – Can you discuss any memorable moments or experiences you’ve had on the air?

“Throughout my nearly 26 years in radio, I have been incredibly fortunate to have several notable individuals drop by the studio or call in, including Lisa Marie Presley, Jim Cuddy, Lou Rawls, Buckcherry, and many others. I even had the chance to speak with my idol, Michael Bolton, for half an hour! However, the people in the community fill my heart with the most joy. I love using my platform to give events a voice and assist others as much as possible, just like my mentor Max Keeping, a longtime CJOH-TV news anchor.”

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