About SMMuG

Jan 4, 2009

The final few embers of the old music industry are just about burnt out…

In these earliest days of 2009, we see can now see through the smoke and can realize that our future doesn’t need a national or international network of radio stations who quickly commoditize music according to the highest bidder.  Our future doesn’t need dozens of national music magazines that become the kingmakers for a small handful of bands.  The future of our music doesn’t need to rely on small spinning discs that have been in use for over 100 years and require several tiers of physical distribution which eroded profits away from the artists.  And artists are no longer required to rent studio space and hire technical specialists in order to help them record, mix and master their music before it reaches their friends, fans and followers.

The artists, musicians and bands of today are capable of establishing their own terms, in their own time, according to their choices. Technology has nearly completely destroyed the power that major labels had (production, distribution & promotion) in the old music business model.   As the sales of physical music discs declines every year, the dollars being spent on digital music and live performances increases.  Using new rules for social collaboration, promotion and marketing, smart music artists today can reach their audiences, license their music and book international tours, without the expense or interference of an out-of-date major label.  This is not to say that record labels do not serve a purpose in the future, but their role will be significantly different than it was just a decade ago.

The Social Media Music Guide is destined to be an invaluable resource for thousands of independent musicians and bands across the globe. Our intent is to deliver, in a wide variety of ways, the information and tools musicians need to know about that will help them connect with the new media, their online communities, merchandising vendors and even with other artists.  We will rely heavily on our knowledge of music, marketing, social media and technology, while relying on our followers to help with feedback, commentary and questions.

We look forward to the ride and helping you do what you love.

PJ Conley

Editor in Chief

Social Media Music Guide