KUZZ-FM 107.9 morning show co-hosts Steve Gradowitz and Geoff Emery talk about the history of KUZZ, an award nomination, the work that goes into creating the show, and what their listeners mean to them.

The two have been nominated for on-air personality of the year in medium market by the Academy of Country Music.

Buck Owens purchased KUZZ in 1966. In its 40-year history, KUZZ has been honored with numerous industry awards: Gavin Station of the Year, Billboard Station of the Year, Academy of Country Music Station of the Year and much more.

An Academy of Country Music Award can best be described according to Emery as, “country music’s equivalent to a Grammy. The Academy of Country Music promotes country music, country artists and the media.” This year the Academy of Country Music Awards is planned for April 1 in Las Vegas.

To be nominated, the station had to submit a 10-minute video clip of its best show for the entire year. Then a judging panel selected the finalists for each category. KUZZ is nominated in the medium market category.

KUZZ’s morning show co-hosts are both very excited about the nomination.

“I really wasn’t expecting it. I have been doing this for 27 years, and I am not a trained disk jockey, which is why being nominated for an award is a great honor. I am so happy our audience loves us for who we are,” Gradowitz said.

“Being nominated really validates the effort we go through every year to put on a good show and also the concern we have for our listeners,” Emery said.

If the duo wins on April 1, they said they would not have a speech planned.

“I honestly don’t even think we’ll get any camera time. They do have a presentation ceremony where you get your picture taken though,” said Emery. “I don’t expect to win, but if we do I will be extremely happy and humbled,” said Gradowitz

Early in the morning when most people are still asleep, Gradowitz and Emery are busy creating their morning show.

When asked what it takes to create a radio show, Gradowitz said, “we just listen to peoples’ calls and see what they want to talk about. Every once in a while, Steve and I will try and come up with a topic, but usually it doesn’t stick.”

The fans themselves play a big role in the show’s success. Gradowitz wanted the fans to know that, “they just got nominated.” He also went on to say that the fans are the funniest and the greatest joy of his life.

Meanwhile, Emery said, “ we feel a lot of pride in being nominated, and we really appreciate our listeners because this is their award too.”