My iTunes settings have numerous podcasts that I link to which automatically update my iPod which I listen to on my way to work. I never know what is on there but generally there will be a few stand out tracks amongst many. One site in particular 'The Hype Machine' is excellent for finding popular 'under the radar' tracks - you must try it if you want to know what the musical zeitgeist consists of.
It has this to say about itself:
'The Hype Machine keeps track of new songs posted on the best blogs about music. Easily listen, discover and buy songs that everyone is talking about!'
Simple proposition - and it works beautifully. Please check it out.
Now I often have no idea what the tracks are I am listening to as my iPod is in my jacket pocket and I just listen to what ever was downloaded the previous evening, but for the last two weeks I have been playing a particular song called Crazy by an artist called Gnarls Barkley which according to TOTPs on Sunday is apparently No.1. Coincidence?
There must be something about it that has made me want to continually listen to it in the absence of any marketing or external influences that I am aware of. It has a certain uniqueness, a playful 'soul' that is sadly missing from so much music these days in my opinion. And upon checking out the website it appears that this is one of those artists/projects (think KLF possibly) that has no definitive artist behind it.
The website has this to say:
'Perhaps Gnarls Barkley will never fully reveal himself. But if St. Elsewhere is any indication, his music bears Marvin Gaye’s depth of feeling, Jeff Buckley’s emotive theatrics, and wild courage not seen since Prince’s prime. Behold the most exciting debut of 2006. A psychedelic soul masterpiece. Gnarls Barkley may not be easily located, but he won’t be a stranger.'
So a thought crosses my mind about great songs (think brand experiences) not needing marketing. And that the world might be a better place if we only bought products and services that really delivered great brand experiences negating the need for brand hyperbole delivered through marketing. What if great products and services were on average 10% cheaper because they didn't need marketing costs built in to compensate for a poor experience? Will WOM ultimately get rid of hyperbolic marketing nonsense? It's an interesting thought.
And on that bombshell - I need a lie down...
Here have a listen to Gnarls:
