A.J. Tinari can’t “stop believin” that he was fortunate enough to interview a true rock and roll legend. Tinari was chosen by Sean McDonald, director of Neumann Media, to participate in a Zoom interview with Neal Schon, guitarist for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame group Journey.

On July 22, Tinari interviewed Schon along with another student from Montclair University. During the 40-minute interview, Schon talked about his upcoming guitar collection auction. The astute musician, who is also a singer/songwriter, has amassed a collection of more than 800 guitars. The interview covered a wide range of topics including the band’s new album and an upcoming concert in New York's Central Park.

Tinari enjoys 70s music and he is a drummer and plays in the NU Jazz Band. By the end of the interview, his knowledge of guitars grew tremendously.

“He was a really cool guy,” Tinari said. “I was definitely nervous when I woke up on the day of the interview, but by the time I got to school I was fine.”

The interview was planned in conjunction with College Radio Day (CRD), in an effort to highlight the importance of college radio and vinyl records. This year’s College Radio Day is scheduled for October 1, 2021. The intent of CRD is to raise a greater, international awareness of the many college and high school radio stations that operate around the world. It attempts to encourage people who would not normally listen to college radio to do so on this day.

Tinari’s interview with Schon was recorded and will be shared with all participating College Radio Day stations, which includes stations in 30 countries.

“We had a segment about the resurgence of vinyl and why it is important. We joked about getting (concert) tickets. The interview was a great opportunity and I’m lucky to have had it,” he said.

The musical icon interviews just keep coming for our CDM students. Senior Amanda Cunningham recently interviewed rock/comedian “Weird Al” Yankovic. Look for a story on her experience soon.