One of my favorite Current DJs, Mark Wheat, does an annual Valentine's Day Greatest Love Songs of All Time broadcast, which you can access here. And, if you're not so keen on love songs this year, access the Greatest Breakup Songs hosted by David Campbell here which aired on Saturday night {both are excellent play lists}.
Mark was kind enough to agree to do a Q & A with me last week regarding love songs. Here are my questions and his answers:
What is the top song request you get for Valentine's Day?
Over the years Etta James' "At Last" and Ben Folds' "The Luckiest" have been the most consistent vote getters.
What is the strangest Valentine's Day request you've received?
Not for V Day but I had a guy planning to have me play a song at a certain time for him to propose to. He said it was going to happen in January, but he never wrote back...I worry about him.
Approximately how many listeners make requests for the Greatest Love Songs of All Time?
Between 400-450 and it's been pretty consistent for the last 5 years.
Do you think there are more "lovers" than "haters" on Valentine's Day?
A lot of lovers hate Valentine's Day! I think we have equal parts of each within us and we try to maintain a balance. Lovers are more verbose!
Why do you think couples choose a song to be "their song?"
It's the first piece of music that they can agree upon.
It's as simple and as complex as that!
Do you & the Mrs. have a song? What is it? {if you don't mind sharing}
We bonded over a mutual love of producers like St.Germain and Tosca, but when we were married 9 years ago, my wife's best friend gave us a copy of Etta's song mentioned above. It was a nice thought and so brilliant that it has become a Current fave.
Is it more of an American tradition for couples to choose a song to represent their relationship?
No, I know that growing up {in England} we had to have a song with each girlfriend! But then I have always been a musichead!
If a couple doesn't have a song, what are a few good suggestions for them to try out?
Just listen to the show on Monday night or check the playlist, but it has to be their unique decision.
Thank you, Mark.
Mark has always been so gracious to answer my emails regarding music/artist questions, song requests and now this Q & A. I think Mark and all the DJs and behind the scenes people do a great job. In our home, we listen to all three of the MPR stations. Our Darling Boys have been raised on the music The Currentand MPR Classical stations play; and I'm proud of this fact. Not every 4 year old and 2 year old can identify Johnny Cash on the radio and get excited about it.
Contribute Now
I actually feel stress when I imagine a world without MPR if funding is lost or their member drives fall short because I NEED this radio station so much. MPR happens to be having a membership drive now. If you listen or if you want to reduce my stress levels, please do your part and pay ANY amount to become a member today. It's worth it.
Write Your Rep.
Which brings me to another point: the U.S. House of Representatives will begin debate today, Tuesday, February 15th, on the House Budget Bill. The spending cuts outlined in this bill include cutting ALL federal funding for public broadcasting. I happen to feel that public radio and T.V. stations provide a much needed service exposing many listeners and viewers to music, news, art and culture for very little and most often no cost to the public, including children and young families who enjoy this great community asset regardless of economic status. Please contact your U.S. representative if you feel that federal funding for public broadcasting should be spared. You can find out more information and send a note to your U.S. Representative at 170 Million Americans for Public Broadcasting.
The Scoop
But, to leave you on positive note... If you live in the Twin Cities, please join me at Rock The Cradle on Sunday from 11 AM to 5 PM. This FREE event is sponsored by The Current, Children's Theatre Company and Minneapolis Institute of Arts (MIA). Enjoy music, art, books, puppetry, theatre, yoga and some snacks with all your favorite DJs. Our family's favorite part is always getting down at the Disco Party. For more information on Rock The Cradle, click here. Over and out...
Anna



