I’ve written two posts in the past week unpacking my thoughts on the music industry’s “problem” in terms of both the music consumer and music maker (um, you.). Now it’s time to tackle the “imperfect product” topic and talk about perfect.
Two words: content and sharing.
Content
A perfect music product will give me direct and EASY access to additional content produced and delivered for that music and that music alone. Instead of searching all over the artist’s web site, I’d be linked into a site full of photos, videos, podcasts, outtakes and more that support that project only. If I had a particular interest in the drums perhaps, I’d be able to learn about the drummer’s who played on the project and watch videos of them recording the project.
In other words, I want the experience I used to get with an album or CD updated for the 21st century and yes, I’d pay for it. In fact, I’d pay more for additional access if it was available.
Sharing
A perfect music product could also be shared. Easily.
- With myself: If I buy music I should be able to listen to it on any gadget I have anywhere in my life. This could mean either (a) we move past all the various platforms and formats and establish one or (b) when I BUY the music I get it in ALL formats. In fact, I’d like to be granted digital downloads of all the physical music I’ve bought over the years. Why should I have to buy the same music again?
- With others: I’d like to be able to share the music I love with others without (a) fear of legal repercussions and (b) knowing I cost the artist a sale. I want to share it, not give it away. This includes the additional content above too. I want to be able to sit with my friends and share the content with them (meaning accessibility shouldn’t be confined to just my gadgets).
I’m sure there are more ideas but those are the two “must haves” in my book.
How ’bout you, what would you like to see in music’s perfect product? How can you help make it happen?
Connect with Steve