What happened to rockpage and this areas scene
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Don Hughes
- Gold Member
- Posts: 280
- Joined: Sunday Dec 26, 2004
- Location: Pittsburgh/Altoona Pa
- Contact:
As far as political posts on Rockpage (I was one of the biggest offenders) being blamed for chasing people away, I did notice a decline in Rockpage Music posts at the same time we stopped our political posts. Perhaps that was just a coincidence.
However I became a supporter for ending the political posts in the interest of keeping Rockpage more civil. I still check out Rockpage daily, but there has definitely been a decline in traffic. I think Facebook is the biggest reason for the decline and that also seemed to become more popular at about the same time that the political posts stopped.
It would be cool to see a little more chatter on here remembering that you can reach some people who aren't among your Facebook friends.
However I became a supporter for ending the political posts in the interest of keeping Rockpage more civil. I still check out Rockpage daily, but there has definitely been a decline in traffic. I think Facebook is the biggest reason for the decline and that also seemed to become more popular at about the same time that the political posts stopped.
It would be cool to see a little more chatter on here remembering that you can reach some people who aren't among your Facebook friends.
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Dragan Kalasa
- Gold Member
- Posts: 455
- Joined: Sunday Jan 22, 2006
- Location: Between Hopewell and Everett...a rock and a hard place, PA
From pure speculation, rockpage seems pretty irrelevant anymore. 60% of the posts are made by moxham123 (I mean no disrespect in saying that). People rarely answer the wanted ads and most people on here are A) already in a band, B) don't care to be in a band because they enjoy being a fan and able to communicate with local band members on here, C) looking for another band as a side project, where most new member ads are looking for someone a little more committed than just "This is a band I'll participate in when my main one is taking a break.". As far as facebook, yeah that'll take some of the business of this site away obviously. You don't have to be friends. Just friends of friends. That web spreads out faster and farther than this site ever will. Outside of the fact that this is a close-knit family, and I use that term loosely, probably more like a clique-y, all girl juvenile detention center with JP as the warden.
I just think very few people really care about rockpage, the area scene, even music in general. To me most people are more interested in how much profit a music/song/album will turn with the least amount of spending. I mean schools are threatening to drop their music programs. Not to mention jobs are scarce and incomes are low. It's just so low of a priority now to some that those people have a "who cares?" mentality.
Again...just pure speculation...
I just think very few people really care about rockpage, the area scene, even music in general. To me most people are more interested in how much profit a music/song/album will turn with the least amount of spending. I mean schools are threatening to drop their music programs. Not to mention jobs are scarce and incomes are low. It's just so low of a priority now to some that those people have a "who cares?" mentality.
Again...just pure speculation...
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MistValkyrie
- Gold Member
- Posts: 388
- Joined: Sunday Jul 24, 2011
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StumbleFingers
- Gold Member
- Posts: 311
- Joined: Thursday Apr 26, 2012
- Location: Altoona
Rockpage can still be a valuable resource for local musicians. You can't have deep, extended discussions like this on Facebook. Rockpage's greatest weakness right now is a lack of awareness. Maybe we could promote it with flyers in local music stores, or even on Facebook.
As a vehicle for promoting your band, Rockpage is and has been very weak. The typical live music fan doesn't follow the scene closely enough to bother with a specialized site like this. Features like the Top Ten and some of the dead forum areas aren't contributing much.
Regarding Facebook, it can be a fabulous vehicle for promotion. If the only people following your band page are friends and family, you're doing it wrong. Do whatever it takes to get your band in front of people and push the hell out of Facebook, your website, whatever. A free gig in front of 500 people is a better choice than a paid gig for 10 people.
You should Like the Sitch on Facebook, by the way. Just sayin'
The market for bands isn't what it used to be, but at least there's less competition. I'm playing for more consistent crowds now than ten years ago just because its easier to book the good rooms. Even when it was strong this scene never offered instant gratification. It's never been easy.
As a vehicle for promoting your band, Rockpage is and has been very weak. The typical live music fan doesn't follow the scene closely enough to bother with a specialized site like this. Features like the Top Ten and some of the dead forum areas aren't contributing much.
Regarding Facebook, it can be a fabulous vehicle for promotion. If the only people following your band page are friends and family, you're doing it wrong. Do whatever it takes to get your band in front of people and push the hell out of Facebook, your website, whatever. A free gig in front of 500 people is a better choice than a paid gig for 10 people.
You should Like the Sitch on Facebook, by the way. Just sayin'
The market for bands isn't what it used to be, but at least there's less competition. I'm playing for more consistent crowds now than ten years ago just because its easier to book the good rooms. Even when it was strong this scene never offered instant gratification. It's never been easy.
Back in black, I need a snack...
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bassist_25
- Senior Member
- Posts: 6815
- Joined: Monday Dec 09, 2002
- Location: Indiana
Haha, I remember like 8 years ago it was a big deal to try and keep your band in the Top 10. We'd all be clicking our band pages every day. Now, I couldn't even tell you who's on the front page.StumbleFingers wrote: Features like the Top Ten and some of the dead forum areas aren't contributing much.
To be fair, Rockpage used to have a lot of lurkers back in the day, including live music fans, promoters, agents, sound companies, etc. I can't tell you how many times I saw someone in the real world who'd make a comment to me about something that happened on Rockpage, even though that person never posted. It made more sense to make sure your project was visible here, because you didn't know who was watching. I don't know if that's the case anymore.
I guess we could always migrate over to Vocal Youth.
"He's the electric horseman, you better back off!" - old sKool making a reference to the culturally relevant 1979 film.
Ya know, Rockpage could have a Facebook page...
The framework already exists to share/publicize pictures and videos, those things that might attract other people...
We can't turn the tide of the information age. People LOVE their phones and computers, their Wifis and their social medias and internets. That is not going to change. If your band/group/community/church choir is going to stay relevant to today's young people, you have to embrace these things and make them work for you.
The framework already exists to share/publicize pictures and videos, those things that might attract other people...
We can't turn the tide of the information age. People LOVE their phones and computers, their Wifis and their social medias and internets. That is not going to change. If your band/group/community/church choir is going to stay relevant to today's young people, you have to embrace these things and make them work for you.
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PanzerFaust
- Diamond Member
- Posts: 1547
- Joined: Sunday Dec 08, 2002
- Location: Western Front
- Contact:
It's funny that today was the first time I've been here in so long I can't remember, and then this thread was near the top. I was considering looking for a keyboard player, and thought I'd stop by.
Anyway, I don't really come here mainly because the only local band I really even follow is the 'canes, and fortunately I can see them in far more places than bars. Any real music discussions here became really few and far between and I don't really network with local musicians very much or go to bars.
When I was younger, sure I was all into it. Now, I prefer to spend time with my family and when I play...it's in a Church.
Anyway, I don't really come here mainly because the only local band I really even follow is the 'canes, and fortunately I can see them in far more places than bars. Any real music discussions here became really few and far between and I don't really network with local musicians very much or go to bars.
When I was younger, sure I was all into it. Now, I prefer to spend time with my family and when I play...it's in a Church.
What's happened with Rockpage?
A couple of things actually. Probably more - but these are the big things I've noticed.
1) Social media has eliminated the need for Rockpage. Today's social media applications boast advanced tools necessary for marketing in today's online music scene. I say "online" music scene because that's where the majority of the scene has migrated over the last decade. People don't buy CD's like they used to, they purchase digital downloads. Bands don't pound the pavement hanging fliers and posters, they create an event and instantly invite hundreds of people. Rockpage can't compete so it is becoming more and more irrelevant. Think about it, what can you do on Rockpage that you can't do on Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, or Instagram?
2) Evolution has really hurt Rockpage as well. When I look at Rockpage I see an outdated website. Visually speaking, not much has changed since I joined in 2007. It's still the same black page coded in basic HTML (I stand corrected. It's actually PHP.)
with a clip art graphic header. Even major brands (Pepsi, Coke, etc.) give their logos a face-lift every few years to stay fresh. Having a career in marketing and social media management, I can tell you first hand that you have a very small window to make an impression on a new user visiting a site for the first time. If the site looks old and outdated, potential users are going to view it as such and move onto something they feel will better serve their needs.
3) There is no promotion for Rockpage. Simply put, the only people who know about Rockpage are the people that still use it and the people that used to use it who are checking back in to see if there is anything new; usually disappointed. Moreover, that's not many people using the site. I'm still shocked that Rockpage doesn't have a Facebook account.
Those are just a few reasons I see Rockpage slowly declining. Unfortunately, in the vast world of the internet and all of it's offerings, you have to stay current if you don't want to get passed over. I'll always hold a soft-spot in my heart for this website because I've met so many great friends on it but the facts are the facts; Rockpage isn't the tool it used to be anymore. As a result, people have moved on.
What happened to the music scene?
I think we can all agree on the basics: DUI, bad economy, lack of interest, social media, etc.
All of these things have no doubt had an impact. However, I personally believe that the scene is there and very much alive. I always respond to the statement, "the music scene is dead" with the same answer: "It's not dead - you're just not going to the right shows." My band Hate Grenade has had great success getting people to come out to the shows locally. We try to make every show special. We try and bring out high-caliber supporting acts, we offer to drive tickets to the front door of whoever wants them, we offer free rides to and from out of town gigs (if we have the room) and we promote ourselves heavily. I'm inclined to agree with Kieth - posters still work! When we play locally, you can find our show posters at all the music stores (Music Emporium, Gig Box, Band Man) as well as several stores in the mall and a handful of other businesses that I've created relationships with. We'll hang them up anywhere we can. We also make it a point to go out and see other bands play. Support is a two way street. If you expect friends to come see your band - you have to go see theirs too when you have an off night. I think this is something that has been overlooked by a lot of bands in our area. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, our band makes a significant effort to talk to as many people as we can at our shows. The economy is rough and money is tight for everyone. When you see people at your shows, let them know that it means the world to you.
Finally, since we're on the topic of supporting the local music scene - I'm going to ask everyone who reads this to do me a solid. Just visit the link and listen to our songs. If you like what you hear, please show your support by "Liking" our page. It's that simple. Your support is greatly appreciated and I hope to see all of you at an HG show soon!
Best,
Chuck
www.facebook.com/HateGrenade
A couple of things actually. Probably more - but these are the big things I've noticed.
1) Social media has eliminated the need for Rockpage. Today's social media applications boast advanced tools necessary for marketing in today's online music scene. I say "online" music scene because that's where the majority of the scene has migrated over the last decade. People don't buy CD's like they used to, they purchase digital downloads. Bands don't pound the pavement hanging fliers and posters, they create an event and instantly invite hundreds of people. Rockpage can't compete so it is becoming more and more irrelevant. Think about it, what can you do on Rockpage that you can't do on Facebook, Youtube, Twitter, or Instagram?
2) Evolution has really hurt Rockpage as well. When I look at Rockpage I see an outdated website. Visually speaking, not much has changed since I joined in 2007. It's still the same black page coded in basic HTML (I stand corrected. It's actually PHP.)
with a clip art graphic header. Even major brands (Pepsi, Coke, etc.) give their logos a face-lift every few years to stay fresh. Having a career in marketing and social media management, I can tell you first hand that you have a very small window to make an impression on a new user visiting a site for the first time. If the site looks old and outdated, potential users are going to view it as such and move onto something they feel will better serve their needs.
3) There is no promotion for Rockpage. Simply put, the only people who know about Rockpage are the people that still use it and the people that used to use it who are checking back in to see if there is anything new; usually disappointed. Moreover, that's not many people using the site. I'm still shocked that Rockpage doesn't have a Facebook account.
Those are just a few reasons I see Rockpage slowly declining. Unfortunately, in the vast world of the internet and all of it's offerings, you have to stay current if you don't want to get passed over. I'll always hold a soft-spot in my heart for this website because I've met so many great friends on it but the facts are the facts; Rockpage isn't the tool it used to be anymore. As a result, people have moved on.
What happened to the music scene?
I think we can all agree on the basics: DUI, bad economy, lack of interest, social media, etc.
All of these things have no doubt had an impact. However, I personally believe that the scene is there and very much alive. I always respond to the statement, "the music scene is dead" with the same answer: "It's not dead - you're just not going to the right shows." My band Hate Grenade has had great success getting people to come out to the shows locally. We try to make every show special. We try and bring out high-caliber supporting acts, we offer to drive tickets to the front door of whoever wants them, we offer free rides to and from out of town gigs (if we have the room) and we promote ourselves heavily. I'm inclined to agree with Kieth - posters still work! When we play locally, you can find our show posters at all the music stores (Music Emporium, Gig Box, Band Man) as well as several stores in the mall and a handful of other businesses that I've created relationships with. We'll hang them up anywhere we can. We also make it a point to go out and see other bands play. Support is a two way street. If you expect friends to come see your band - you have to go see theirs too when you have an off night. I think this is something that has been overlooked by a lot of bands in our area. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, our band makes a significant effort to talk to as many people as we can at our shows. The economy is rough and money is tight for everyone. When you see people at your shows, let them know that it means the world to you.
Finally, since we're on the topic of supporting the local music scene - I'm going to ask everyone who reads this to do me a solid. Just visit the link and listen to our songs. If you like what you hear, please show your support by "Liking" our page. It's that simple. Your support is greatly appreciated and I hope to see all of you at an HG show soon!
Best,
Chuck
www.facebook.com/HateGrenade
Of course, everything's been said pretty accurately to the fact. But JP touched on something that most haven't checked in either... The average 20-40yr-old around here, unlike 25yrs ago, isn't into rock these days. When I ask most people their preference of music, R&B/Hip-Hop is usually at the top, alongside Top 40 music. If not, the next competing genre is the modern-day rock-assimilated country. These are MOSTLY the areas DJs operate, though definitely not always the case. Simply put,... Society hasn't done very well for spotlighting good musicianship over the years
Drop down a few more notches, and eventually, rock and metal comes somewhere. I somehow ended up meeting a lot of people that like metal in this area, but I also realize that I'm not the average person, and I'm not the average person's person. Even if the average person in the area has money in their pocket, they've got their preferences on what they're going to see and do. If your band doesn't fall under that average societal gimmick, you tend to hope to put a foothold in somewhere where the people that are into your style can find you. Keep pushing and plugging, and you may actually have a few decent outings. It's tough if you're not matching society, although I feel that it makes you better a band in my eyes than if you just follow along. Personal conjecture, of course
Now with all of that said, I'll add that even seeing the bands I do, and going to the places I go, I've seen a pretty thorough decline otherwise as well. This is where we can contribute other things that make it harder to get out. Many people have families now. Many have other bills, etc. that they have to pay, and less money to do so. Many are totally turned off by the idea of spending a night in jail. Many just don't want to go anywhere. Summer, winter, spring, or fall, they're busy or inside
Drop down a few more notches, and eventually, rock and metal comes somewhere. I somehow ended up meeting a lot of people that like metal in this area, but I also realize that I'm not the average person, and I'm not the average person's person. Even if the average person in the area has money in their pocket, they've got their preferences on what they're going to see and do. If your band doesn't fall under that average societal gimmick, you tend to hope to put a foothold in somewhere where the people that are into your style can find you. Keep pushing and plugging, and you may actually have a few decent outings. It's tough if you're not matching society, although I feel that it makes you better a band in my eyes than if you just follow along. Personal conjecture, of course
Now with all of that said, I'll add that even seeing the bands I do, and going to the places I go, I've seen a pretty thorough decline otherwise as well. This is where we can contribute other things that make it harder to get out. Many people have families now. Many have other bills, etc. that they have to pay, and less money to do so. Many are totally turned off by the idea of spending a night in jail. Many just don't want to go anywhere. Summer, winter, spring, or fall, they're busy or inside
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slackin@dabass
- Diamond Member
- Posts: 1341
- Joined: Sunday Mar 30, 2008
- Location: tyrone, pa
- Contact:
So let me get this straight... You guys wanna know why people raising families don't wanna pay for a sitter, pay for a taxi, pay cover, buy drinks that club owners refuse to run specials on, pay a taxi again, pay the sitter extra money cuz you got home late, and get up for work the next day? I got bills, jack. I remember when I could get smashed on 20 bucks. I have an idea, though. Maybe bars could run anti specials. That's where you pay 4 bucks a domestic bottle and 5 bucks a shot... Oh wait, that's a typical night at 30 something. Wonder why nobody goes out.
As to the decline of rockpage... I'm not allowed to talk about the politics I cared so much about. Oh, and eff Facebook. I'm not on that mess of "x person really pissed me off so my place to vent is right here cuz I'm too cowardly to say it to their face."
Really though no one gives a shit if you play an instrument anymore. My 18 year old brothers friends are all into sampling and creating music with computers. Although, they all get Hellas impressed when I turn the radio on and figure songs out by ear before they're over. They usually say they wish they could do that but they don't have the patience to practice.
There is still a scene, there are still shows to play. You gotta know where to look. Small rooms with a vocal pa and backline is about where its at. Don't expect a big paycheck or a huge crowd. In today's economy, no one wants to pay what they have to. It's the nature of the beast. But as with most things, it will be cyclical. Give it another 10 years and maybe it will be back to where it was. Probably not cuz by then you should be able to instantly stream whatever song/video straight to the chip in your brain.
As to the decline of rockpage... I'm not allowed to talk about the politics I cared so much about. Oh, and eff Facebook. I'm not on that mess of "x person really pissed me off so my place to vent is right here cuz I'm too cowardly to say it to their face."
Really though no one gives a shit if you play an instrument anymore. My 18 year old brothers friends are all into sampling and creating music with computers. Although, they all get Hellas impressed when I turn the radio on and figure songs out by ear before they're over. They usually say they wish they could do that but they don't have the patience to practice.
There is still a scene, there are still shows to play. You gotta know where to look. Small rooms with a vocal pa and backline is about where its at. Don't expect a big paycheck or a huge crowd. In today's economy, no one wants to pay what they have to. It's the nature of the beast. But as with most things, it will be cyclical. Give it another 10 years and maybe it will be back to where it was. Probably not cuz by then you should be able to instantly stream whatever song/video straight to the chip in your brain.
Can you identify a genital wart?
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floodcitybrass
- Platinum Member
- Posts: 527
- Joined: Thursday Jan 30, 2003
My comments about rock page.net:
I am appreciative of rockpage.net even though the traffic is down.
You get a free site that does not cost you dime. You don't get spammed with email. You don't get ridiculous ads on the pages. It's a good old fashion web that works and does not crash.
I don't know who maintains it but kudos to that person. I maintain and host many web sites. I also create mobile apps as well. I know from experience that it takes time and money.
Nowadays companies don't have just a website. They have an "online presence" that entails a multiple channels of communication and reachability including website, social media, seo, advertising, online reputation. rockpage.net now only has a small portion of these.
The quickest way to traffic, reachability, and awareness is the to create the following:
Mobile app - create a mobile app. Many social websites also have mobile apps. This takes time and money. The current website would need to serve up content to the app.
Facebook page - This would help but it needs to be maintained and owned by competent admins.
I am going to limit my comments about the music scenes.
I have a different philosophy about local live music. Many people mention the word "bar," "club," "DUI," "alcohol," etc.
I personally do not like to focus my live music performances on these topics. I'd rather have someone listen to us with a focus of hearing us play rather than being worried about getting their 3rd DUI.
As far as bars and clubs closing, I think a lot of them were not keeping up with the times. I think people (especially women) stopped going because they were run down and the bathrooms were very dirty.
I am appreciative of rockpage.net even though the traffic is down.
You get a free site that does not cost you dime. You don't get spammed with email. You don't get ridiculous ads on the pages. It's a good old fashion web that works and does not crash.
I don't know who maintains it but kudos to that person. I maintain and host many web sites. I also create mobile apps as well. I know from experience that it takes time and money.
Nowadays companies don't have just a website. They have an "online presence" that entails a multiple channels of communication and reachability including website, social media, seo, advertising, online reputation. rockpage.net now only has a small portion of these.
The quickest way to traffic, reachability, and awareness is the to create the following:
Mobile app - create a mobile app. Many social websites also have mobile apps. This takes time and money. The current website would need to serve up content to the app.
Facebook page - This would help but it needs to be maintained and owned by competent admins.
I am going to limit my comments about the music scenes.
I have a different philosophy about local live music. Many people mention the word "bar," "club," "DUI," "alcohol," etc.
I personally do not like to focus my live music performances on these topics. I'd rather have someone listen to us with a focus of hearing us play rather than being worried about getting their 3rd DUI.
As far as bars and clubs closing, I think a lot of them were not keeping up with the times. I think people (especially women) stopped going because they were run down and the bathrooms were very dirty.