You probably snickered when you saw the story of how 200 protesters gathered at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland to support Kiss, a band that has not been inducted. If Blondie, the Pretenders, and the Lovin’ Spoonful are "in," why not Kiss? Whether you agree with this snub – or not – you have to admire the passion this band continues to inspire.
As programmer of WRIF back in the early ’80s, I was always amazed by the fervor of the "Kiss Army," members of which regularly called and wrote to protest the perceived lack of airplay we gave the band. Of course, you could never tell whether it was the same five activists, but their loyalty to Kiss was unquestionable.
Fast-forward to today – or better yet – 20 years from today. How many protesters will be marching in front of the Rock Hall for Nickelback? Or Puddle of Mudd? Or Tool?
The premise behind having a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is the notion that there are "Mt. Rushmore" artists and bands that deserve the honor and recognition that comes with a successful and long career. In this age of the "Long Tail," where perhaps blockbuster groups take a back seat to hundreds of smaller, independent bands, the concept of a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame could easily become passé.
A recent L.A.Times/Bloomberg survey revealed that 12-24 year-olds are simply bored, despite having more media options than at any point in entertainment history. As their attention becomes diverted to a myriad of different devices and outlets, no big group, artist, or even genre emerges as dominant. Look at concert halls and sheds yet again this summer to see the vestiges of this growing trend. The amateurs on "American Idol" generate more juice than the millionaires with recording contracts.
So, give it up for the "Kiss Army." They are passionate, and have an undying loyalty to their heavily made up heroes. Rock could use more of that attitude today.
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.
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