Interview/Feature Article

Radio Killed the Social Media Stars

First thing I realized when entering the studios of the 93X morning show was that I was not going to get far following my first initiative of interviewing the 93X Half-Assed Morning show hosts about social media. I could tell just immediately that this would not fly and I would not get much from them if I did.

Interestingly enough though in the end I found out more about social media than I thought I would. Since I began in the communications major courses all I have heard is the praise of social media and how it is helping everyone. But what I found from these guys is that there is a source of media that does not need social media such as Twitter and Facebook to exist: radio. 

Radio, and especially Weasel, Josh and Nick of the Half-Assed Morning Show see that its not very necessary in a world where they have the opportunity to talk to their fans on a daily basis. That or else they appeal to a fan base that feels social media really is not that necessary.

Because radio is dependent on the personalities that make it as opposed to entertainments based on looks or shock and awe (such as Lady Gaga) they don't need to have constant contact with their fan base. These guys have been very successful over the past and really do not see a need to change what they are doing. 

My hat goes off to these three guys for sticking to their roots and not feeling the pressure to have constant contact with everyone. In the end though I would probably support them either way they went do the fact that I am a huge fan of theirs. 

Blogotics

            After recently reading the book Bloggers on the Bus by Eric Boehlert I feel I have a greater understanding of the importance of social media in the world today. The first thing people usually think of when thinking about social media is Twitter and Facebook and those other websites mostly dedicated to high school kids reconnecting with their friends they just saw 2 hours ago.

            The political blog network is an immense construct of up-and-coming writers and seasoned political analysts and commentators all meeting in one huge forum. The beauty is that so many people of different backgrounds are able to exchange ideas (although I believe a whole lot of selective exposure is at play in this world).

            Just like everything else in the world though there are winners and losers and event the slightest slip up can cause someone their tumultuous downfall from blog stardom. In my recent book review of Eric Boehlert’s book I mentioned the story of Joe Anthony, a young writer that was thrown under the political bus of the Obama campaign when constructing a MySpace fan page and was told to surrender his rights to the page or they would commandeer it, which they eventually did. Although its sad that the young man never saw a dime for his hard work, the worst came when he began getting trashed on the political blogs. Like I said, there’s winners and losers. Joe lost, Obama won.

            Overall, I was more than satisfied with my selection of this book. I learned a great deal about the Internet and also was able to add some new tabs to my favorite websites. If given a chance I would recommend all those with the slightest interest in politics and social media to give this book a shot.

           

An Underground Hip-Hop Legend Passes

            In the growing and exciting Minneapolis hip-hop scene one of the most prolific, outspoken and talented artists the city had passed on October 16, 2010.

           

  

            Known for his absurd speed and genius free-styling capabilities, Michael “Eyedea” Larsen passed away on the cusp of becoming a super star. Eyedea died in his sleep the night of October 16, 2010 and an official cause of death has yet to be determined.

           

             Eyedea was widely known around the Minneapolis area as a member of Rhymesayers Entertainment music label and his electrifying performances at the annual Soundset music festival. Eyedea was a member of the group “Eyedea & Abilities” alongside longtime friend and musician DJ Abilities.

           

            I personally was able to see him perform at Soundset twice and each time was blown away at his performance. At Soundset 2010, during the middle of Eyedea & Abilities’ set it began to rain. Instead of continuing on with his planned setlist Eyedea began to freestyle for an incredible fifteen minutes just about the rain. It was one of the most memorable and amazing performances I had ever seen by a hip-hop performer.

            Rhymesayer’s Entertainment, in support of a charity set up in Michael “Eyedea” Larsen’s name, will be holding a charity concert at First Avenue on November 9^th, 2010 in honor of their friend to remember his accomplishments and style. There are no performers listed for the show on the site so expect Rhymesayers to pull out all of the big shots to honor Eyedea.

            As a fan of his music I encourage everyone to attend this concert and remember the music that Eyedea brought to all of us. All of his music can be found on iTunes or else on Fifth Element’s website.

R.I.P. Michael “Eyedea” Larsen.