The title of today’s post says it all.
Its source? The famous singer/song writer Lyle Lovett in a recent New York Times article about the changing state of WMVY, a Martha’s Vineyard progressive station trying to reinvent itself on the web.
That admission is an honest assessment of the changing, roiling waters that are the new foundation of media and entertainment. Even the best brands are being caught up in having to change, morph, adapt and keep up with a rapidly changing customer base.
Up for grabs are music discovery and curation, as well as the soul of local cities, towns, and metros and what makes them different. Over the years, it has almost become a consultant cliché that “every market is unique.” But the fact is, it’s true.
We may all enjoy the Super Bowl, Skyfall, and A Charlie Brown Christmas. We may share apps like Shazam and Words With Friends.
But when it comes to what’s going on locally, radio’s best hope is to be the beacon, the mirror, and the source. Whether it’s a mall shooting in Portland, a right-to-work controversy in Michigan, or maruijuana in Washington, people care about what’s happening on their Main Streets. Dying hometown newspapers provide an even better opportunity for local radio stations that can maintain their local flavor, vibe, and mentality.
The fact is that the old rulebook is being replaced by a digital owner’s manual that isn’t published anywhere. It is discoverable, however, by experimenting, listening, participating, and experiencing.
Never before has there been a more open environment, more access, and more chances to create and share content, with friends, family members, and the world.
For Lovett and other musicians, it’s a challenge. But it’s also an incredible opportunity to break out and be discovered by entire generations of music lovers who have no idea who he is.
For those of us in radio, it’s a revolution that can make the best and most creative among us into media stars of the future.
You know more than you think.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
- Radio + Thanksgiving = Gratitude - November 27, 2024
- Is It Quittin’ Time For SiriusXM? - November 26, 2024
- Radio, It Oughta Be A Crime - November 25, 2024
Leave a Reply