Artists write their lyrics as their own way of expressing themselves and they appeal to those who share the same feelings. People tend to listen to music they can relate to. They like their music to be almost personalized to them, even if it’s only one verse or even a line.
Google and Arcade Fire released an interactive music video (directed and written by Chris Milk) in 2010 that is geo-personalised to your specific city. You enter your information and in seconds it generates a video to the band’s song “We Used To Wait” with images tailored to where you grew up.
http://www.thewildernessdowntown.com/
Personalizing a video in such a way can be extremely beneficial as now almost anyone can feel connected and relate to, not just the video but, the song as well. Connecting with you audience is everything and Chris Milk has found a unique way to do so.
Arcade Fire is a band I have recently come to appreciated (I may have been a little behind on that one) and I have been blown away by their distinct sound and thoughtful lyrics. Admittedly, it was not until they earned Album of the Year that I had even heard of them. But after going through their old music and finally giving their new album a listen, I find myself disappointed that I have been deprived of such wonderful music for so long. How is it that every single student at UBC can tell me who Justin Beiber is but maybe only half could say they’ve heard of Arcade Fire? I would say Arcade Fire needs to step up their marketing but I am sure their new title as Album of the Year will do that all on its own.