Calling all music nerds! Our DJ spotlight of the week, Justin LaBelle, defines himself as The Musical Nerd. When he’s not on air, Justin is studying to be a Chemical Engineer. From favorites like A Day to Remember and EDEN to discussing the music industry and vinyls, Justin will keep you up to date on Fridays 6-8 pm!

1. What made you decide to join Impact and become a DJ?

I’ve loved music since I was young and had my first IPod Shuffle. As soon as I heard about Impact Radio, I wanted to be a part of it any way I could. This lead to me working my way up to live shifts!

2. What has been your best on air experience?

I think that would have to be the calls or texts I get for requests on the show. That’s honestly what makes being a DJ so rewarding. You get to bond with someone in that moment over music they enjoy and want to hear. You also bond over some personal stories or fans who’ve listened to the show for years tell me how they enjoyed what they heard. It’s the kind of thing that just warms the heart.

3. How has working at 88.9FM changed your life?

Working with 88.9FM has raised my confidence in myself and in my ability to entertain to new levels. Every time I get to be behind a mic, it’s like a burst of adrenaline to the system.

4. Who would be your dream co-host?

Jack White (White Stripes, Third Man Records). I’m a fan of his solo work and his record label. I would love to talk about the state of the music industry, the recent vinyl resurgence and why it’s so impressive.

5. What is the best concert experience you have had? Why?

It was Warped Tour 2016, and I was going to see one of my favorite artists, Emarosa. The energy was insane, and when my favorite song, Blue, came on, the lead singer came down from the stage and handed me the mic to sing part of the verse. I later got an album signed by him.

6. What’s a time you laughed so hard you cried?

I have no idea, but I know it was because of a meme.