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Chelsea O: Disc jockey highlights local acts at Alternative Buffalo 107.7 FM

(photo by Pat Depuy)

It’s never been easy for local artists to gain exposure via our local radio stations. For years, including during the heyday of our vibrant local punk and new wave scene of the late 1970s and 1980s, small-watt Buffalo State college radio station WBNY 91.3 FM was about the only game in town.

Today, local blues acts can still get some exposure thanks to WBFO 88.7 FM’s Saturday and Sunday night blues shows. New to the scene is Alternative Buffalo 107.7 FM. Every Sunday night since February 9, local original acts have been getting their music broadcast to a wide audience thanks to deejay Chelsea O and her new show.


Artvoice: Tell us what you do at 107.7 FM.

Chelsea O.: My main duty is hosting the local music show, “Localized,” which airs Sunday nights from 8 to 9pm. I am also on-air Saturday mornings from 9am to noon for anyone who wants some alternative music to accompany their breakfast.

AV: Are you from Western New York?

Chelsea O.: I am! Buffalo born and raised.

AV: Are you a musician yourself?

Chelsea O.: Yes—I currently play solo acoustic under the name Wolf. One of the reasons I got to know the Buffalo music scene and came to realize its potential was by playing out at open mic nights and witnessing other performers. People in this area are insanely talented and I truly believe that we have one of the best local music scenes around.

AV: Why do you think it’s important to showcase local talent?

Chelsea O.: It’s important because it’s our community and we’re fortunate enough to have a talented one! I read an article recently that claimed Buffalo is in the midst of its own Renaissance and I don’t think that sentiment is far off. I believe that there is more local talent than ever right now, and it’s not just in the “alternative” music genre. We have everything from folk to hip-hop to DJs to rock bands…whatever your musical heart desires. Check the Artvoice listings on any night of the week and you’re sure to come across something that strikes your fancy.

AV: What do you think local bands need to do to be successful?

Chelsea O.: In today’s world technology has made it so that a good social media presence is a necessity. I’ve never been extremely fond of social media myself but I think that its power as a marketing tool and a way to reach your audience should not be overlooked. I receive most of the submissions for Localized via email and bands also use Twitter and occasionally Facebook to get in touch, so it’s a nice plus to be at least a little Internet-savvy.

However, I also firmly believe that the tried and true method of simply playing out and gaining a fan base is ultimately the most important— around here people want to know that you don’t just sound good in a recording, that you’re the real deal. I’ve always had the most fun playing to crowds around Elmwood and Allentown because a lot of coffee shops and bars cater to an audience that are actually in-tune with the music and are thoughtful to the lyrics and the melodies. As a performer you can’t ask for much more than that.

> by buck quigley

If you’d like your music to be on “Localized,” send your mp3s to localized@alternativebuffalo.com. You should also check out Wolf’s original music by visiting musicbywolf.com and facebook.com/musicbywolf.

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