So…How about Watch the Throne? Truly, I am speaking as a connoisseur and a fan of music not as a critic. The album was overly hyped; it didn’t meet the expectations of “greatness” that everyone spoke of, including “The Throne.” I know there will be a few people preparing to call me a ... Read more...
Via: That's according to NPR, which polled a number of industry experts to determine the real cost behind a top-charting hit. In this case, it was Rihanna's recently-created "Man Down," a big-budget, blockbuster-style blowout that remains unproven. Seem ridiculous? Indeed, the cost includes ... Read more...
Seun Kuti - Rise (Swizz Beatz Remix) Seun rips today’s commercial hip-hop artists a new one, talks about polygamy and monogamy (“one wife too many”), his dream collabo, and how he’ll keep the afrobeat flame alive forever. (As Seun and Fela’s fans like to quote, the elder Kuti’... Read more...
Via: Artists are constantly being told to tweet. And tweet. And tweet… just to stay connected with their fans and stay relevant. But is that the best advice, especially when it comes to selling stuff (like albums)? The answer is not for every artist, especially for those courting a less m... Read more...
997 by indie filmmaker Rick Madsen, this 36 min documentary filmed during the recording of the Modest Mouse album "The Lonesome Crowded West" will never be released commercially. Artists interviewed for the film include Elliott Smith, Spencer Moody from The Murder City Devils, Doug Martsch of Bu... Read more...
Via: If you love "baby, I love you" lyrics, don't worry: they're not going anywhere. But lyrics are no longer an essential part of music for a growing number of artists and fans, and neither are radio-friendly chord changes, predictable song structures, or four-minute lengths. So... Read more...
In response to Jay-Z and Kanye West's decision to offer exclusive sales programs to iTunes and Best Buy for their forthcoming "Watch the Throne" LP, a number of independent retailers have written an open letter to the duo protesting the plan, calling it a "short-sighted strategy." Dear Jay-Z an... Read more...
Today Converse Inc. officially announced the opening of its Brooklyn recording studio, Converse Rubber Tracks, which allows artists to sign up and record songs for free. Converse announced the studio last fall, and bands were able to apply for studio time on the Converse website until May 31.... Read more...
As an impulse buy, you might plunk down a few bucks for a Shamwow, an Aluma Wallet or a Shake Weight. But would a TV infomercial persuade you to part with thousands of dollars on a get-rich-quick scheme? There are many thousands who would and do. If there were no suckers, there wouldn't be so... Read more...