Balls of Steel (Macklemore)

So I'm not totally sure if it is a true story- but after buying Macklemore and Ryan Lewis' album "The Heist" (twice- dont ask why), and listening to it top to bottom several times I have realized that these guys have got mad skills, and HUGE balls.  I liked their sound initially, but the track entitled "Jimmy Iovine" shows utter contempt to the old ivory tower record industry ways.  His reply to Jimmy ..."I appreciate the offer... thought that this is what I wanted... I'd rather be a starving artist, than succeed at getting fu@%ed." (true or not- this stuff is good)

To be independently produced, released and topping the charts is a feat in and of itself- but to openly call out one of the godfathers of the music industry without fear of recourse is in and of itself impressive.  These guys prove that the new era of popular music is upon us.  It's all about the story.  It's all about that immediate splash and making yourself known- just ask Amada Palmer.  That genuine message, cultivation of real friendship with your fans and pushing out true content to the people who follow you closest is the key to winning.  

​If you haven't bought the album- do it.  It is a fantastic, well versed trip.  If you are lucky- you might find the Amazon discount and grab it for $1.99 (the reason why I have both the censored and extended full expletive version).  This is worth $10 though... or perhaps $15.  These guys are talented.

Good Copy Bad Copy

This is an older "copyleft" video that came out of Denmark in 2007. As it is new to me, I am going to share it with you now. It is very interesting and a unique perspective on the other side of the copyright argument. Including some very interesting speculation on ways to monetize music "in the future" that are being actualized now. Interesting.

iTunes offering free streaming of new RHCP Album

Perhaps I have been under a rock, or simply not paying attention, but it would appear that iTunes is now offering pre-release streams of upcoming albums.

The Red Hot Chili Pepers' new album, "I'm With You"  is now available for listening at iTunes .  It will be streaming free until the album's release date.   In addition to streaming via iTunes, the Chili Peppers are also hosting a slew of streaming listening parties World-wide for interested fans.  For more information, check out their website.

It certainly would appear that RHCP has taken an agressive 360 degree marketing campaign on their upcoming release.  Between their listening parties, twitter meme, iTunes, and Livestream partnership and revamped website featuring global imaging by Google they are certainly pulling out all the stops.  As I type this I am two tracks in and so far Anthony, Flea, Chad and Josh continue to deliver that pure RHCP sound two decades after their music caught my ear initially.  Go have a listen!