Salvador Castro/KUTX

Matt Reilly

Program Director

What musical experience most set you on the path to a career in radio?

I grew up in Houston, where the radio is abysmal. Even as a kid I thought, “I’d like to do this, but better”.

What’s your favorite Austin music experience so far?

I moved from Austin to Philadelphia for four years. There were many moments in that time when an Austin musician or band would come to town and I’d realize that we shouldn’t take this amazing music scene for granted. Philly has some great bands and a deep history, but Austin has it on a daily basis. I knew I had to get back.

Why public rather than commercial radio?

Art over commerce. It’s not that we don’t need a little commerce to make the wheels turn, but the art is at the forefront in public radio. The art from the artists, the art of speaking on the radio, the art of putting sets of music together that inspire and entertain.

How do you spend your time when you’re not spinning records on the air?

With a 5 year old and a 1 year old, I do a lot of laundry, dishes and other general cleaning. Constant cleaning. As a result, I do yoga so my back doesn’t give out and try to sneak out to the golf course when no one is looking. We’re a big swimming family too. A wet bathing suit is the only way to survive an Austin summer.

Finish the sentence: “Austin Music Is ….”

…the engine that drives our city.