“Essex rock band Koopa could become the first unsigned group to land a UK top 40 hit thanks to new chart rules”
Until 1 January, bands and artists were only allowed to release singles on CD or one alternative physical embodiment - which would only mean that an artist required a record deal - to be qualified to enter the charts.
However the rules changed, effective January 1st, bands who sold songs on their own through official downloading services, like iTunes, are eligible to enter the charts. The band, Koopa, which entered at #17, made their place in the charts through internet/mobile downloads. Most of the downloads were made via mobile phone, usually coming from teenagers the bulk of their fan base. Mobile downloads allow new markets, like teenagers to have the power to purchase music, since a lot of them “don’t have credit cards.”
“Once again, the music industry is rapidly evolving toward the self-generated digital market”
Although the news is coming from the United Kingdom, it should serve as a harbinger to the music industry in the States. The news shows that music industries in other countries are changing standards and rules to keep up with an evolving industry. It gives artists power to help themselves, without a strong arm of a record label. However, even if it allows bands to further their careers without a label, it may even help bands get signed. It will show labels what kind of music they should start supporting, as a means of scouting and interest.
The article was written by Ian Youngs from the Entertainment reporter, BBC News website. It can be views here: news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/6248535.stm
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