Music Meets Media: Podcasting

In the age of the ipod, podcasts have replaced radio for many listeners. In this session we'll discuss how to reach the growing legions who are bypassing the airwaves. How can you increase your visibility using your podcast? How do you use the medium creatively to connect with your fans?

Jennifer Buzzell VP for Marketing and Communications, Strathmore
Corey Denis Vice President, reapandsow
Chris MacDonald Founder/President, Indiefeed Networks
Steve Savoca International Director, Digital, Domino Recording Co.

panelists from left to right: CM (moderator), CD, JB, SS

11:08 AM EST - CM: Differences for uses for full songs vs. snippets in podcasts. You are giving up your right to a small portion of your music for an opportunity to share your music.

CD: Podcasters have an obligation to give the full credit to who the music belongs to. There are many rights issues, and podcasting is very murky right now. You are forfilling a roll for the artist in which they are sharing their music with you.

CM: Keep in mind, rights owners of songs have full right to their content. You want to be careful on how you choose your policies.

11:26 AM EST - SS: How can musicians get their music into podcasts?

CM: Indiefeed gives a song and then a back story on the band in short podcasts. It seems to have had a positive reaction with listeners. There is a submission form on the website.

11:33 AM EST - CM: How can you stand out with so many podcasts to choose from?
For me, thinking creatively from a marketing perspective is important. Getting your medadata straight is also key, so when people are searching, they can find you.

SS: Another good tip is to use "like artists" in your key words.

CD: Treat your podcast like its an album. You can promote it like any piece of media because it is. Updating information and follow up also important.

SS: Table of contents is important as well. That way listeners can go straight to the media content they want to listen to.

11:46 AM EST - CM: When looking at making podcasts, there are three aspects you need to look at. Will it be utilized as entertainment, is it educational, and/or communal? Does your podcast provide enough information to the listener under any of these aspects?

11:57 AM EST - CM: On issues with rights and clearance with podcasting, you will see with new technology, laws aren't always in sync with laws that already exist. The definition of a podcast also effects this issue as well. If it is seen as a download, there are publishing issues. If it is seen as internet radio, you have to deal with performance rights.

CD: There is no issue yet about a podcast being a public performance. Right now there aren't any clear rules. The best thing to do is give credit to the music you're playing. At least then you have the argument that it is a promotional tool.