Employee Playlist of the Month: Nicole Wendel
This feel-good playlist is sure to cure any winter blues you may have this month. Nicole Wendel Richardson, Senior Art Director for iHeartMedia, put together all of her favorites to keep you motivated and inspired at work. Take a listen and we guarantee you’ll be able to feel the creative juices flowing!
How come you chose the songs on your playlist?
I chose a variety of songs that usually get me through my day – through all of the projects and creative moods that I go through on a regular basis. I have a broad appreciation of all genres of music. I think this playlist shows the diversity of my personality.
When do you listen to this playlist most?
All throughout my workday. I can’t focus throughout the day without having my playlist to keep me motivated through all of the different projects that I work on. This playlist is about as unpredictable as my day usually is.
Who is your dream artist to meet and why?
Dead or Alive? I’m not really a superfan of any particular artist, but having to choose, I would probably say Freddie Mercury (dead) and Ed Sheeran or Eminem (alive). Probably not the answer you were expecting, but I have such an appreciation for authenticity and being able to express yourself through a form of art, particularly music. For someone who has a strong emotional connection to music and a creative personality, I would love to meet someone who is unapologetically genuine and undeniably talented.
Can you share your most memorable music moment experience?
One of my most memorable music moment experiences was at the 2014 iHeartRadio Music Festival when one of my all-time favorite Country bands, Zac Brown Band, covered one of my all-time favorite Classic Rock songs, Bohemian Rhapsody. Listening to music through speakers is one thing, but seeing it live is a whole new experience. So, to witness something as unique as this, and to see it in person… it was life changing. I remember standing in front of the stage, singing every word and feeling so lost in the song that I felt like I was the one performing on stage. I think we all live for moments like that.
What is the best part about working at iHeartRadio?
The people. At iHeart, for most of us we are more than just coworkers and it’s more than just music. Working at iHeartRadio is the sense of family and community when everyone comes together for the same passion. It’s the way that one song hits home. The way some bands and their fans have this powerful, unbreakable connection. I have that with a lot of the people that I work with. We all share the same passion for music, culture and companionship. Working at iHeartRadio is like having a second family for me.
On top of working with the best team, I also really love what I do. Being able to design the artwork that brings our concerts and events to life is an incredible feeling. Giving a visual personality to our events takes a lot of time, creativity and hard work. And I love every minute of each challenge.
A fun fact about myself is…
Working my very first Jingle Ball at Madison Square Garden in 2012, I was told to “Run this card to the video team.” Six months into my first job after college, I took my tasks very seriously and literally ran the card to the broadcast room, plowing Justin Bieber over in the process. His security team wasn’t too happy with me. But he turned out okay and I still have a job, so I guess I didn’t get in too much trouble.
iHeartRadio Employee Playlist of the Month: Nicole Wendel
