Instagram On The Web

Instagram has single handedly dominated mobile devices with its easy to use platform and social capabilities for entertainment. Since Facebook's acquisition of Instagram, things basically remained the same until now. Instagram has now provided regular web capabilities for Instagram so users can now access and share photos from any device with Internet, but why is this important?

When Facebook purchased Instagram for one billion dollars, Instagram was not monetized and has not been monetized to date. There were limited options for monetization that would not hinder the current user experience. Placing advertisements on the mobile platform would surely destroy the current user experience on mobile devices, but not so much on a web platform. This is why I believe that the main purpose for Instagram gravitating to the web is to begin placing advertisements in that space instead. Although the web platform and interface is currently advertisement free, I suspect that prolonged use and likability for the new option will precede any placements.

In order for users and the public to be more accepting to advertisements on Instagram, unique ideas and promotions will have to be used to ease the transition. History has proven that creative ads and initiatives are usually accepted more than bland conventional methods. This may also be another opportunity for an additional integration with Facebook. Public criticism was very high when it came to the merger and Instagram claims a high demand for web presence so any changes on the micro or macro level will become news.

At the end of the day, users simply want convenient access to Instagram from any device or location. Facebook has been notorious for making sudden and significant changes without warning with the exception of the most recent timeline addition to their platform. These past actions will always have users uneasy towards any thought towards significant changes.

Alicia Keys: Story Telling App

R&B superstar Alicia Keys has transcended entertainment with her new interactive story telling apps for her younger fans. With great anticipation speculating for the new Alicia Keys album, opportunity for a mobile outreach to fans in ingenious. Not many music superstars cater to their younger fans, but this app has done them justice. Stories in this app basically help to foster growth and empowerment. The stories are derived from experiences learn and incorporated with the grandmother of Alicia Keys and their close relationship.  Along with stories and exclusive songs from Alicia Keys, the app also contains a playable piano. 

During an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Alicia Keys was asked if the app took away from her music, she said that it actually enhances her music. From a business stand point; this app and its well-timed distributed does more than enhance the music of Alicia Keys. Sales from the app can even be incorporated into album sales projects. The demographic for the app include children from the ages of 6-12, and parents have to purchase the app for the children. I'm sure the listening demographic for an Alicia Keys album has a wide range due to the soulful content of her music that appeals to many audiences. The combination of this app and new album create a marketing strategy that keeps Alicia Keys on the tip of everyone's tongue.

When it comes to interaction, this app is almost in the category of social gaming. Users have many options through the entire app experience. The graphic presentation and story quality surpasses many competitor apps and the app pricing of $3.99 is very reasonable. I anticipate this initiative becoming a trend for more entertainment avenues in and outside of the music industry. Communication is at its highest point in society and building buzz and anticipation for any initiative can be very vital to achieving success.

iTunes Festival

In the wars for providing and distributing entertainment, iTunes has reached its new plateau, with the recent release of their newest App and feature called iTunes Festival. Although iTunes has made their festival an annual event over the years, they have finally provided access to the masses with their new iTunes Festival App.

I found it extremely convenient to schedule the events I wanted to watch via iPhone on my calendar. As the world learned from the online streaming of the 2012 London Olympics, access and availability for content is key. iTunes Festival performances can be viewed on all apple platforms including the iPad, iPod Touch, and Apple TV.

I was really impressed with the Apple TV integration. As an avid Apple TV user, it was extremely pleasing and convenient to find the iTunes Festival icon for my viewing pleasure. I am excited to see more live concert distribution through channels like this.

The App integration is very user friendly. Not only do you have the ability to watch a live show, but you can now also watch previous performances. As you can see on the right, I have taken a few screen shots from my iPhone to show the simplicity and easy use. I am also happy with the news option. There are often large amounts of press and media associated with music festivals and Apple has made that news available as well.

I see more social media integration in the future of this App. There isn't any current social media integration in regards to sharing the information provided about performances. For the year 2012, social media is important for almost every marketable event. Users should have the ability to alert friends and comment in real time about the iTunes Festival. Although this app isn't flawless, I anticipated bigger and better from Apple next year.

Mobile Entertainment Growth

Mobile devices have swarmed and consumed the market leading to the massive use of platforms that can provide mobile entertainment. Smart phones and tablets continue to evolve and apps are constantly being created to please and entertain the masses. A big leap of progress in mobile entertainment has been made for the WWE with their new app.

As technology continues to grow, I expect more entertainment entities taking strides into reaching their patrons more directly than the ways of the past. These new resources are becoming more accessible to people every day. It has been said that mobile entertainment has grown 82% from 2010-2011. Smart phones are the standard and tablet use continues to increase.

Even the 2012 Olympics reached new grounds with ratings thanks to the online and mobile presence. It was the most viewed in Olympic history. People had more access and control to the games than ever before. Viewers had the ability to pick and choose the events they wanted to see. I especially like the feature that allowed me to watch two events at once. There is a promising future for advertising through these new directions of mobile entertainment. Both advertisers and viewers can be satisfied with a happy medium of entertainment and Ads. 

I look forward to the day when more avenues are created with direct access to content that allow the consumer to be provided with more options. As mobile devices continue to improve, this process will continue to expand. The sport that I would like to see incorporate these new practices would have to be tennis. Wimbledon and the French & U.S. Opens are due for a major distribution overhaul and their rating may benefit from a change that goes with this mobile entertainment revolution. As an avid user of mobile devices, I am thrilled with the convenience that is to come.

PlayPro Media Hits Orlando, FL

With the resources provided all across the Internet and mobile devices, many are striving to be the next star. Times have changed in the music business and new models are prevailing in efforts to nurture and create avenues for aspiring talent. PlayPro Media is a great example of such efforts. PlayPro Media provides free music, the ability to learn the music business, and get discovered. "We help talented artist focus on careers, connect to the industry, and build a vibrant fan base. Through our footprint, PlayPro provides access to students at dozens of the nations finest schools, allowing bands to reach fans on a daily basis". Building that initial following is always an issue for new talent. This platform will be a tremendous aid to that cause. Their talent expo will provide newcomers to the entertainment industry with the opportunity to get their entire package polished and ready for the professional atmosphere. 

The brainchild of this program is the renowned Brad Todd. His years of hard work and dedication in the music industry has led to this educational and entertaining project that creates opportunities for students and aspiring entertainers. After gaining success in Atlanta, Georgia, PlayPro is now ready to launch its presence in the Orlando, Florida area.

PlayPro's first Talent Expo was held in November 2011 in Georgia. Ten acts competed to win over the crowd and the winner was a young rapper that goes by the name Elgin Nation. Statistics for this entire event process include over 130,000 page views of media for the entire campaign and 93,000 voting "likes" for the ten participating artists.

The city of Orlando, Florida is in for great opportunities as long as companies such as PlayPro Media continue to expand their horizons. The world is constantly waiting for the next great source of entertainment and there is a lot of undiscovered talent that has yet to be found.

Evolution of Radio Shows: The Breakfast Club on Power 105.1

New things are generating every moment thanks to the access, convenience, and affordability of technology. This lethal combination has led to major breakthroughs in various areas of entertainment. One entity that has been taking advantage of technology and content is a vibrant New York radio station, Power 105.1 fm. Over the past couple of years, Power 105.1 has created one of the most controversial and entertaining morning shows called "The Breakfast Club". This morning show, which is comprised of three dynamic individuals, has changed the game for all conventional radio content. Much of their success can be accounted for due to the "no-holds-barred" rivalry with direct competitor rival radio station Hot 97. Power 105.1 has content that includes exclusive video recorded celebrity interviews, webisodes, and other themed productions the pack their week with content that was once only available on premium television.

Although Howard Stern can arguably be the pioneer of controversial radio content, Power 105.1 has integrated new concepts and availability on their website that is equivalent to million dollars television shows. Their progress is very exciting to watch as it develops even further and continues to grow addition revenue streams. I predict that their Ad revenues will increase exponentially over the next six months due to their frequent and entertaining celebrity interview video postings. I also anticipate seeing more youtube integration to further increase revenue streams. 

Aggressive digital marketing will be the key to pushing this morning show to new heights and expanded demographics.  Authentic content is what the market of content has grown to in our society given the up-rise of social media and world knowledge being expanded via the Internet. This is why the more "Politically Correct" or less abrasive based content is overlooked and dismissed. The world has a new standard of content and The Breakfast club is meeting that new standard and demand.

Website Protection In Entertainment

Media based websites are open fields to legal liabilities and other various legal issues. Not only are there concerns towards appropriate licensing, but there are also concerns that deal with site traffic and dynamics. This is why it is vital to keep up to date with laws and regulations that can affect the immediate function and use of your website. After reviewing two entertainment law podcasts, the importance of keeping up to date on what is going on in the world of entertainment has increased for me exponentially.

A few heavy topics have been discussed and reviewed on www.entertainmentlawupdate.com that I find to be very informative. Keeping track of intellectual properties is always handy. Especially if it can affect any media the may be included on your site. The current dispute of copyright termination for the Superman Intellectual Property from Warner Bros. by MarcToberoff is an excellent example.

There has been an ongoing war over the Superman franchise for some time now. Warner Bros. even has a release scheduled for a new superman movie by Christopher Nolan, proclaimed savior of the Batman story with his latest titled “Dark Knight Rises”. The legal factors of this case bounce around, but staying on top of litigations that can affect the content on your website can be beneficial.

Many sites also have parody-like commercials that may be liable to legal concerns. In the case of Kim Kardashian v. The Gap, the Old Navy commercial with an alleged Kim Kardashian look-a-like led to a $20 million lawsuit back in 2011. It is claimed that the commercial has “created confusion in the marketplace and violated her rights to her name and likeness”. Similar issue like this may easily occur on your media based website if you are not careful.

Having an open eye to the world of entertainment law can come in handy and save you some headaches down the line. Always be sure to take that extra precaution that will keep you out of litigation or the unpredictable fate of the media.

Lady Gaga's Asian Tour Mayhem

Given the controversy with Lady Gaga's Asian Tour, manager Troy Carter has recently spoken out about her stand on the situation. Many countries involved with the tour have banned Lady Gaga's performances claiming her presentation and theatrics are too provocative. Fans have gathered in protest to the ban, but it has not lead to hopeful expectations.

Troy Carter stated that Lady Gaga has no intentions to tone down her act, even if it prevents her from performing in certain countries on the tour. This decision is a great stance for Lady Gaga to defend her artistic vision, but very unfortunate for those fans who will not be able to see her perform because of the controversy.

The main issue is the threat on the sense of conduct and morality from her performance. Lady Gaga's platform of entertainment is said to rival the traditional norms and standards of many of the places involved with this tour. This is ironic because the demand for Lady Gaga in the Asian market is very high. There seems to be no happy medium for the fans and non-fans of the pop sensation.

This situation is also interesting because the concerts that are being hindered are actually sold out concerts. In Indonesia, the permit for the concert was denied close before the show even though tickets for the event were already sold out. In South Korea, fans younger than 18 years old were banned from the concert.

There aren't many artists who have a deep international following and it's always disappointing when the fans are inconvenienced because of cultural and social differences. This is a very unfortunate situation for paying patrons who have invested in the Lady Gaga experience across Asia for this tour. In the future I hope to see more understanding and resolution that doesn't hinder patrons or ideologists from entertainment experiences.

Tupac Hologram Expands Entertainment

Just when you thought entertainment couldn't get any better, Tupac Shakur was resurrected at the 2012 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival alongside Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre. According to MTV, the idea was incepted by Dre and created by Hollywood special effects house Digital Domain and projected by AV Concepts. This new innovative technology opens the door to a plethora of opportunities for great entertainers of the past to be resurrected for "live" performances on stage. Nick Smith, President of AV Concepts, has not been able to say much about the creative production of the project, but he has said " it's affordable in the sense that if we had to bring entertainers around world and create concerts across the country, we could put [artists] in every venue in the country"and that the approximate cost is from $100,000-$400,000 to pull off the show.

Evolution of the Music Business

In the world of music, other moneymaking counterparts now accompany the digital download. The music business can now look forward to online subscriptions, and digital performance royalties based on the “Likes” of Pandora and Sirius XM as additional revenue streams. As technology continues become more accessible and portable, the music industry will continue to have more opportunities to gain revenue digitally by way of these counterparts. According to the RIAA, digital and synchronization revenue in the U.S. recorded music business has increased 0.2% in 2011. This provides a balance from the void left by the decline of physical music revenue. 

These figures show a huge decline in Music Video revenue by 11.6%. This figure is important because it raises questions to the source of sales and revenue from this area. I would assume it is from digital downloads via Amazon, iTunes, or other purchasing sources. I would like to know if music video revenues generated from Vevo and YouTube are calculated in this equation, but it is not indicated.  

My interest is peaked by the 38% decline in the area of Mobile sales and distribution. The figures in that area are calculated in the categories of master ringtones, ring-backs, music videos, and full length downloads. This significant decline can only be explained by the massive increase of ringtone making apps that elude ringtone purchase by allow users to edit songs they already to create their own ringtones free of charge. As mentioned above, Vevo & YouTube allow users to view music videos at their own will that only requires internet service and availability. Full length downloads have most likely went down due to the plethora of streaming options such as Spotify, Rhapsody and Pandora.

As technology progresses, the distribution of revenue will continue to fluctuate in the music business. Digital Performance Royalties and Synchronization Royalties have streamed a new source of revenue in the music world by adapting to the digital changes in society.

BMI & ASCAP Initiatives

I would like to take time and shine some light on some efforts of BMI (Broadcast Music Inc.) and ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) for the world of music. For those who are not aware, BMI & ASCAP are organizations that help protect the copyrights of their members. They basically issue licensing fees from those who use the protected content of their members, which funnel back to the members as royalties.

BMI currently has an upcoming workshop for music in commercial media. This workshop is a three-day seminar geared towards teaching composition and producing techniques for advertising along with corporate branding and music production libraries. This approach is important to BMI because they believe that “These areas constitute the world’s most heard music and provide major revenue streams for composers”. This line of thinking is very logical and makes sense, especially on a marketing aspect.

Clay Shirky's Magnificent Speech on SOPA/PIPA

Clay Shirky’s manifesto on SOPA/PIPA is a crystal clear and perfect narration that depicts what has happened overtime in regards to copyright infringement laws and technology. He describes all the significant laws that have tried to mold our evolving society. The knowledge shared is objective and very precise. This speech carries its listeners on a clear path through the history of past legislations that lead up to the major issue that was face in January 2012 known as SOPA/PIPA.

When I first heard about the legislation that was trying to be passed, I wasn’t very knowledgeable about the history that led to it as accurately as described during Shirky’s speech. Many of the other articles and videos I read gave me a general idea, but many of them contained subjective content.

Clay Shirky’s makes his message clear by doing a few things that stand out quite vividly. He began by telling a story about how copyright infringement laws hindered an aspect of a niche used by a small local business in his neighborhood using a paper plate sign. The story creatively sets a solid tone and foundation for everything to be said afterwards. The sign also added a hint of American involvement, which is obviously related to the subject. It seemed to speak a greater purpose that silently stated, “This is what is happening here in America”. It also seamlessly showed the true intent of SOPA/PIPA, which is clearly described in the most objective way. At this point, the audience was completely vested in everything he had to say without any room for deviation. This technique of business storytelling is phenomenal because it compels the audience to focus on the content matter. The second greatest factor about the speech involved the strong and powerful closing remark that initiated thoughts and perspective to everything that was mentioned, “Time Warner has called and they want us all back on the couch, just consuming — not producing, not sharing — and we should say, ‘No.” Clay Shirky. I thoroughly enjoyed the content and delivery of everything said. I also find this information to be invaluable.

Apple TV vs. Google TV (Part 1)

With Apple's recent success in home entertainment, Google has chosen to follow suit with its new release and it’s called Google TV. Aside from smart televisions, the Apple TV has had no real competition in this market so now consumers have more options, especially Android users. This Google TV release will be the second attempt for Google after a terrible failure during the first run in their release with Logitec and Sony, which led to a fire sale of the unsuccessful product in 2011.  Google has since grown with the birth of Google Music and Google Plus as well as the continued success with the Android Market so this release should be more successful and Android fans will have one more thing to brag about.

Royalty Collections Increase and File Sharing Takes a Hit

One of the biggest factors that might affect growth in the music industry is the flow of payments to musicians and publishers. An innovation and government regulation that will have a positive impact on the future of the music industry is Google’s acquisition of RightsFlow. RightsFlow is an American company that provides organizations, bands, songwriters and individuals with music licensing services and royalty payment solutions. YouTube is one of Google’s greatest assets, which features millions of music videos on its site. The previous process for royalty payments that was used by YouTube was always deemed as problematic so this change should license music on YouTube more efficiently.

The Digital Download is Indeed the Genuine Successor to the CD

After reading a blog entry by the popular Music Industry blogger Mark Mulligan, I realized that I completely disagree with his view on D.I.S.C.: The Music Format Bill Of Rights

The days of gaining significant revenue and popularity based primarily on CD sales are long gone and will NEVER return. That is why basing any ideology off of “what was” is just preposterous. It is naturally difficult for seasoned veterans of the music industry to grasp this because they have tasted the

success with old methods of massive distribution and popularity that was not primarily based via the Internet.