Interview with:
Makenzie Creden
Tiger Bomb Promo
Tell us a bit about the career path that led to where you are now.
I have always loved music, but working in the music industry actually wasn’t on my radar until after college! I grew up going to DIY shows in Houston and immersing myself in the local scene. I took photos for my friends’ bands and went to open mics weekly, not because I played but because it was a wonderful community. When it came time for college, I moved to Chicago and dedicated my energy into my university’s radio station, WLUW, where I was Music Director for two years until I graduated in 2022. After graduation, Tori Benes (previously of Tiger Bomb) let me know that Tiger Bomb was hiring. They were always one of my favorite promo companies to work with, and I had no clue what to do post-grad, so I figured I’d apply. I was lucky enough to land the job and quickly fell in love with the world of radio promotion. I’ve been at Tiger Bomb ever since and absolutely adore it. I’ll forever be so grateful for Tori and Shil!
What is your favorite experience you’ve had in your career? Perhaps a musical idol you got to meet or work with? A project you were involved with promoting?
There have been so many highlights during my (almost) 3 years at Tiger Bomb, but my favorite might be Slowdive’s latest record campaign in 2023. Slowdive is one of my all time favorite artists, and to be a part of the roll out felt like such a high honor. I was lucky enough to see them in Chicago and got to attend an exclusive Dolby Atmos listening experience in NYC. It was an immersive campaign for such a legendary artist.
What aspect of your job gives you the most satisfaction?
Setting up interviews and sessions gives me the most satisfaction. It’s a very tangible way to see how radio can leave an impact!
What band/artist or style of music outside the realm of your college/community radio promotion would people be most intrigued to hear you love?
I’m actually a huge metal-head! I love the classics like Black Sabbath, Type O Negative, Slipknot, System of a Down, Acid Bath, etc. It makes up a huge chunk of my personal listening.
What job do you think you would have if you weren’t in this industry?
If I hadn’t stumbled into the music industry, I believe I’d be an art therapist! I’ve always been a huge mental health care advocate, but I also believe in the healing power of creativity.
The holidays are here! Are you someone that loves this time of year? And if so, what do you love most about it? Do you have a favorite childhood memory associated with the holidays? If you hate it, why are you so soulless? Just kidding… sort of. But really, why don’t you like it if that’s the case?
I personally enjoy the holidays, although I know they can be hard for a lot of people. I absolutely love giving gifts to friends and family. I put a lot of thought into curating the perfect selection and a lot of time into crafting homemade gifts. It’s very fulfilling! My favorite holiday memory is simply just the countless years making and decorating gingerbread cookies with my grandma: hot cinnamon candy buttons and raisins for the eyes.
You just won 10 million dollars. What are you going to do with it?
DONATE IT! 10 million dollars is a lot- like, too much. I certainly wouldn’t know what to do with all of it for myself. I’d donate to the Palestinian Children’s Relief Fund, The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, The Trevor Project, the ACLU, and local mutual aid groups.
Other than that, I’d probably buy a plot of land and start a massive garden.
Entertainment Time: What is/are your current favorite TV obsession(s)? What’s a great movie (new or old) you’ve watched recently? What is your current favorite album?
I’m currently obsessed with the new season of Smiling Friends! I love their world of chaotic, bizarro comedy. I recently watched Napoleon Dynamite, which is a classic! My current favorite album is probably Oklou’s Choke Enough- it’s been on repeat lately! I wish I caught her on tour!
Do you have a favorite restaurant in town you love to go to and would recommend?
My favorite restaurant (right now) is probably JJ Thai Street Food here in Chicago. I would recommend it to anyone who likes authentic Thai cuisine.They have a great noodle soup collection, so I’ll surely be there a lot this winter!
You’re stranded on a desert island. What five well known people (dead or alive) would you like to have there with you?
Ozzy Osbourne, Anthony Bourdain, Marie Antoinette, Laura Palmer, and Trisha Paytas
Not sure how long we’d last, but at least it would be interesting!
