Best Local DJ
Kidd Squidd
KXCI--91.3 FM and "The Echo," KEKO--92.1/106.7 FM
READERS' AND STAFF PICK: In the future perhaps this category should
be called the "Second-Best Local DJ," because Dave Squires--a.k.a.
Kidd Squidd--deservedly locks up the top spot year after
year. The Kidd's appeal might be his off-hand personal on-air
approach, where he talks to listeners rather than at
them, on his two shows: Saturdays from 2-5 p.m. on KXCI--91.3
FM ; and Thursdays from 10 p.m. to midnight on "The Echo,"
KEKO--92.1/106.7 FM. The Kidd's passion for roots music is sincere
and infectious--a stark contrast to the corporate radio "personalities"
that read the canned patter provided by some computer in New York.
His playlist is also undoubtedly a source for Kidd Squidd's loyal
listenership. Bland commercial DJs simply regurgitate the same
few mind-mush songs (again selected by that nameless corporate
computer), but The Kidd reaches deep into a wide personal collection
of blues, country, garage rock, pop, soul--just about any music
that is human and cool. His show has recently been picked up for
syndication, spreading Tucson's DJ treasure for more to enjoy.
READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: In a world of stale, testosterone-soaked
archetypes, Suzie Dunn is as refreshing as rain on a hot
summer day. As program director at KLPX--96.1 FM, she has managed
to enliven an ossified format--FM rock--by introducing dozens
of new bands, both on her show (10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through
Friday) and, more significantly, on her Sunday night music showcase,
the Test Department (8 p.m. to midnight). Having emerged from
the local music scene, Suzie remains dedicated to promoting Tucson
bands and helping them gain a wider audience.
