Earl Wilson (NY-Times) recently wrote , "This is part of a much broader shift in media consumption by young people. They’re moving from an acquisition model to an access model. A study last year conducted by members of PRS for Music, a nonprofit royalty collection agency, found that of the 13 million songs for sale online last year, 10 million never got a single buyer and 80 percent of all revenue came from about 52,000 songs. That’s less than one percent of the songs."
The recent chatter about Vybz Kartel's "pon de gaza" selling less downloads than expected, is a glimpse into the digital download industry. I believe that digital downloads will continue to not be profitable unless it is package with other products, shows, and videos. The artistes who take the time to package, and promote their music properly, will begin to understand the move from "acquisition to access". For example, friends of mines; The rap duo Paperboyz, market their music via "access" using their social media website. They have traveled the world as a result of this.
The recent chatter about Vybz Kartel's "pon de gaza" selling less downloads than expected, is a glimpse into the digital download industry. I believe that digital downloads will continue to not be profitable unless it is package with other products, shows, and videos. The artistes who take the time to package, and promote their music properly, will begin to understand the move from "acquisition to access". For example, friends of mines; The rap duo Paperboyz, market their music via "access" using their social media website. They have traveled the world as a result of this.
I agree things are changing, but it is also true that a great deal of the music available for download, lacks character. Nothing sets them apart. Character can be developed using the access model. Access allow for grassroots following and more opportunities to interact with people who are more likely to also buy a ticket to a live performance. MistVybeworld is a great example of this.
I am not surprised that Vybz Kartel digital download did not sell much, the album was poorly promoted, and Vybz Kartel does have a following online. There is currently no way to connect with Vybz Kartel (except myspace) beyond traditional media. I hope we are learning that it still takes a lot of effort to connect with the audience. Maybe I am the only one who get this reaction, if a song is good, I don't mind paying the money to have that song in my collection.
I am not surprised that Vybz Kartel digital download did not sell much, the album was poorly promoted, and Vybz Kartel does have a following online. There is currently no way to connect with Vybz Kartel (except myspace) beyond traditional media. I hope we are learning that it still takes a lot of effort to connect with the audience. Maybe I am the only one who get this reaction, if a song is good, I don't mind paying the money to have that song in my collection.
*picture: Slim K
