Debates about 'good music' are often endless and totally subjective. But here's one test: are audiences coming back, downloading, and asking for more? Showing up at shows, and killing the day job? Or, is the artist (and associated team) pushing mediocrity through endless direct-to-fan channels?
Artists are more empowered than ever, but most are struggling to cut through an unbelievably crowded environment. And, most are not making ends meet from their art. But the quality question seems all-too-often overlooked. "The issue with most DIY artists is they stink. Their music is not good," IndieHeaven president Keith Mohr blatantly commented. "They think social networking is more important than great content."
But what happens to truly amazing music? Topspin head Ian Rogers frequently notes that "quality is hyper-efficient," and other music marketers have similar thoughts. "You shouldn't have a hard time building your audience if it's really connecting with people," said Scott Austin of Authentik Music Group. "A lot of bands don't understand the concept of it, they don't want to hear that."
But does really good quality always cuts through the clutter? Actually no, not by itself. In a simple example, the Beatles would have remained obscure had they never started playing gigs, feverishly releasing records, and aggressively 'crossing the pond'. And increasingly, bands are recognizing that quality music and smart marketing - often orchestrated by a very smart team - are both critical ingredients for success.
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