The Power of Social Networking Sites

Social Networking sites have become an increasing important aspect in the music industry for may reasons.

Soulja Boy

Justin Bieber

One reason is that it allows artists to become prosumers. And unsigned artists can help get recognised. For example through the use of Youtube artists such as Soulja Boy and Justin Bieber have become recognised. It allowed them to promote themselves to different labels, and establish an audience and fan base. The reaction of the audience helps persuade labels to sign them, and it helps them determine how successful they are going to be. Social Networking sites such as MySpace helped launch the careers of artist such as Lily Allen and Calvin Harris. They were able to make music ad upload it the network to get more recognition, and reach out to the labels.

Lily Allen

Calvin Harris

Another reason why social networking sites are now so vital is for the reason I talked about in my last blog about viral videos. It helps promote the artist and gain more awareness of them, and reach out to a wider audience. Member David Emery of Beggers Group (artist) says this about social networking sites “Word of mouth has always been incredibly important to us and now it’s easier than ever to get the word out there.” He also says “Twitter id great for artist interacting with fans. It’s more powerful than traditional marketing. But Facebook is powerful method of direct marketing. It’s less personal, but fans don’t seem to mind that.”

So social networking sites prove to be beneficial for both the artist and the audience.