PODCAST, EPISODE FIVE
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
There are few Radio DJ’s that have their ears so in tuned into Denton’s sound and culture than 102.1 Local Edge’s Mark Schectman. His laid-back, casual demeanor reminds you of your best Fry Street buddy if he was equipped with a classic rock radio DJ’s voice and a face that favors actor John Cusack.
Born and raised in Dallas, Schectman became introduced to the Denton scene when he enrolled into the University of North Texas as a radio, film, and television major.
“I just love being in a college type atmosphere,” Schectman said, with his Cusack smirk. “There’s something fun about walking up to the bars on Fry Street and having a good time then going to class every once in a while.”
Although Schectman graduated from UNT in 2005 to become a local music disc jockey for the award winning radio show The Local Edge, his first dream career was to play in the NBA. A back injury eventually would push him to pursue his second passion: introducing local, quality music to the masses.
“It was always a goal of mine to become a ‘tastemaker’, ” says Schectman. “I’ve liked what happens in Denton, so I always try to make sure my show reflects the bands that are happening right now in Denton.”
Schectman’s sociable vibe and accessibility contributes to his ability to be so in tune with the music scene in Denton. His passion to discover the next big thing is only second to his passion to share it with the rest of the world.
“When Mark took over as our local music ambassador he recognized the ‘scene’ wasn’t exclusive to Dallas,” said Jeff K., a DJ and co-worker of Schectman at The Edge. “Mark has done a phenomenal job tapping into it and exposing the talent in Denton.”
In addition to attending local concerts to check out new bands, Schectman often hosts the Local Edge music showcases that allow local bands to perform in front of audiences that may have not seen them before.
Andy Odom, the bass player of Denton homegrown band The Hope Trust, met Schectman when his band played for one of the showcases. “He’s such a personable guy,” says Odom. “People see him at shows on the weekends and he’s just hanging out just to attend the show.”
Music showcases like 35 Denton help bring bands out of the comfort zones of their hometown and allow others to enjoy the show, Schectman added. The reemergence of local hip hop acts, like this year’s performers Sore Losers and –topic, has made Schectman excited for the chance to be more acquainted with the brand new hip hop scene in the area.
“That’s the main thing that is so exciting about 35,” Schectman said. “These aren’t supposed to be huge, established acts that everyone has already heard of. You’re supposed to go to this, discover something new, and go tell your friends about it.”