The pop genre has hit a new low with Both Justin Timberlake and Robin Thicke releasing videos with nude women only to boost videos streams. Both artists are suffering a mid life crisis, potentially falling into the Justin Bieber category, will pull any tactic to stay in the limelight. They are also taking advantage of a new music business model.

In the case of both singles, more than 1m views were achieved just days after they were uploaded. Whether viewers were revelling in their laddish audacity or fuming about the objectification of women, the clips led to a frenzy of social media debates, news bulletins and views. Based on their success, it’s likely that similar dirty tactics could be used to gain attention for future new releases. Ever since Billboard announced that it would take paid-for streams into account when compiling its Hot 100 chart, online videos have become an increasingly vital tool for artists operating in the US market. The Recording Industry Association of America determined that 100 streams would now equate to one single physical purchase of a single. This means that that an artist could now go platinum after 100 million streams. Read more…

Buzz Track: Driftin

Since forming in California, Y LUV has released several EP’s and have racked up some impressive tour stats playing alongside The Crystal Method, Tokyo Police Club, Penguin Prison, The Knocks, and Robert DeLong among others. Y LUV will play Bonnaroo and Glastonbury this summer. Taking cues from The Killers, Bloc Party, Arctic Monkeys- check out the track Driftin.
Contact: drake@billsilva.net

This would most likely be the end result if John Lennon auditioned for The Voice.

Buzz Track: Shine Out

Colour of London is a pop/rock duo from Nashville. The band recorded their EP with producer Dustin Burnett (Kingsfoil, Abandon Kansas). They hit road this past spring playing colleges in the Northeast as part of the Path of Life tour and are preparing to embark on a 23 city acoustic tour of the east coast from Maine to Florida. The band draws it’s influence from One Republic and Imagine Dragons. The track Shine Out could find it’s way on the top 40 charts. They are a band to watch in 2013.
Contact: mcoleman@alexandani.com

Japan could pass the United States in the terms of the consumption of music. In fact, people tend to buy more thanks to Japan’s anti-piracy laws which include jail time for copyright infringement.

“Japan introduced jail sentences for illegal downloaders in 2012,” says an anonymous commenter. “Now, we see the consequences. And they are exactly as predicted.” Read more….