Hey Showtime Music fans,

     It's been awhile since we last checked in so I thought we would say hello.   This year has been a crazy year for the biz, a full-time radio gig again, and retail.  The economy hasn't been the best, but this year so far for me has been really busy.  I guess my quest for balance is the only missing piece, but we're still working on that.

     As I write this, we just got done with a double shot weekend at the Jay Barrett Athletic Foundation Gala at St. Mary Of The Woods College, and The Crumrin wedding in Marshall, Illinois where we lost AC.  Let's just say it was a little hot last night, but not as hot as some of the dance moves that I saw on the dance floor.  I felt bad for the couple, but these things have a way of working out, and the people that stayed sure had a good time.  The Jay Barrett event continues to get bigger every year.  The items that the Barrett's come up with for the silent auction are absolutely amazing.  Notre Dame tics, Cardinals tickets, Cubs Tickets, Colts Tics, Bears, Tickets, Packers tickets, and anything else you can think of was there.  The dancing at that event was off the chain, as It's Raining Men will always have a new meaning to me, as we saw a guest do a little strip dance, and get attacked by a married female in the audience.  Who says things can't get a little crazy after a few drinks.

     I have also experience something pretty interesting this year as a citizen.  I got to take party in jury duty here in Vigo County, and had never been a part of the process before.  It was fascinating to me to see the judicial process play out.  I was pretty worried I was going to miss a DJ event for the first time ever, but luckily deliberations ended and I was on the road to the next show.

     I was asked last night by a gentleman if I still liked DJing as much as when I started?  It was kind of random, but a fair question I guess.  I still find as much joy in seeing people happy on their big day as anything.  It's great to see smiling faces, and meet new people.  Sometimes you realize that you know somebody, by somebody they are related to, and you realize this area is one big game of six degrees of Kevin Bacon.  I think it's fascinating to make the connections, and hear the stories of how people met.  I guess the one thing that is not as joyful is setting up and tearing down, but hey full-time roadies aren't in the budget.  I am blessed to have some good people to help me, and it would be difficult to make it through without AJ, Troy Clark, and my brother Eric.  It's always nice to have somebody to talk to behind the booth, to keep the groupies away, lol!

     In other news, I took over the afternoon radio show once again at WBOW-B102.7.  It's rewarding in a way, to hear people recognize me, and appreciate the show on another station and format.  I still get the we remember hearing you on Mix-fm at least once a week.  It was 10 years there, so I guess I can understand that.  I had a great time doing a show at that station, but it's kind of like a trade in major league baseball, where you take your talents to another suitor.  I guess I just need to work on my curveball, and knuckleball, and we'll be all set.  I might add that Troy gets a kick out of hearing someone say they heard me on the radio back in the 90's, by saying I'm old.  I just think I'm a little wiser.

     The one thing I forgot about the rigors of full-time radio is the preparation time to do a good show.  Any good radio Dj must put in the time to do show prep, and while very informative to me, it becomes tough to balance things.  However, I want to do the best show I can for the listeners, so I put in the time.  It is great being on the air again every day.  I always feel like I have a good angle, and a lot to say, so it probably spares my friends from hearing me ramble on.  I always try to incorporate new people that I meet into the radio show, as I think the listeners and the people of the Wabash Valley are the "true" stars of the show.

     I would also be remiss in not mentioning the Indy listeners at WZPL.  I just went to the Uncle Sam Jam a few weeks ago with Jason Mraz and Gavin Degraw.  It's good to see the station bring this show back for the troops.  Anybody that knows me, knows I love Gavin Degraw, so it was a good day.  There are a few more concerts on the docket this year, as my true dream of being a rock star, and starting my own rock of love tour bus continues!  Any beautiful ladies ready to sign up?

     Thanks to all the people who have had us as a part of their event for 2008.  We are currently booking many parties for 2009, as well as Christmas parties for this year.  The fall looks to be really busy with several weddings throughout Indiana and Illinois.  We couldn't do it without you, and thanks so much for 17 fabulous years of playing tunes, and entertaining the masses.  I am truly blessed.
 
Matt Luecking
Showtime Music Owner/Operator/Entertainer
July 27th 2008