[288] New WMTS GM pushing more multimedia to enhance music programming

As the new general manager of MTSU’s WMTS-FM 88.3, Anthony Williams plans to add visual components to drive innovation within the studio.

The MTSU senior audio production major in the Department of Recording Industry plans on steering the student-run station toward a wider platform that includes more than just audio content.

“We are looking to improve our social media presence and add recap videos,” Williams said. "I've been on the management team long enough and I see what works and what doesn't.”

As a sophomore, he was selected to be music director for about a year then transitioned to a production director since that position is geared toward his major.

Future interns and current show hosts of WMTS can expect more of a hands-on experience that goes beyond pushing buttons and speaking into a microphone.

"I want people who come here (WMTS) to take full advantage of the opportunities they have," he said.

The Knoxville, Tennessee, native wants radio hosts and their listeners to become more in tune with convergence between media outlets.

"It's not so much about just audio anymore, we have started something visually where we bring in music artists into the studio, they share an intimate performance and then our hosts interview them in between," he said.

Housed within the Center for Innovation in Media inside the Bragg Building, the station gives its audience a variety of music and entertainment from country to pop, even featuring visiting music artists’ live performances.

Posting on-camera interviews with guests posted on WMTS’s webpage will allow viewers to match a name with a face, Williams said, adding that creating such content will expand radio personalities’ multimedia skills while broadening WMTS’ media platform.

And as new general manager, Williams plans to share techniques he learned as WMTS's music director.

First-time radio personality Kiara Chambers has her own show, "Good Life Obviously" or “G.L.O.,” on the station and is excited about the coming changes.

"Because I am a new DJ I'm a little nervous," said Chambers, also an MTSU senior. "Working with him and others is great and they make my transition very easy and comfortable."

Williams is set to graduate in May and hopes that adding to his multimedia skills will land him a job in working with live sound.

"My plans after college involve me freelancing in Franklin and Nashville doing whatever live sound gigs I can get,” he said.

WMTS-FM is a part of the College of Media and Entertainment’s Center for Innovation in Media, which also includes the student-run digital newspaper Sidelines, television station MT10 and Match Records.

For more information on WMTS, visit the station website at www.WMTS.org or call 615-898-2636.