Wikipedia Beats MySpace As Go To Music Source
Millions have been spent on band web pages, SEO and optimizing MySapce and Facebook pages in an effort to capture the illusive fan. But how much attention has been paid to user generated online info repository Wikipedia?
Almost none.
Two recent studies by Billboard and Digital Media Wire confirmed what those of us who frequently Google band names have suspected for awhile: viewing a Wikipedia entry to get band info is often more popular than MySpace or even the band’s website.
The numbers don’t lie, but the reasons may be complex. First, Wikipedia is considered an unbiased source. Second, and web designers should take note, users know that they’ll get the facts quickly on a single page plus links to more without having to drill down inside a complex web site.
Whatever the reason, the message is clear – ignore your artists’ Wikipedia pages at your peril. Will be we seeing ads for WOE’s (Wikipedia Optimization Experts) soon?
see stats via Digital Media Wire after the jump
If you to a band’s website, your options are limited. While on Wikipedia or MySpace, your options for discovery are infinite. I can’t remember the last time I used a band’s own website.
Personally, if I want to check out the band’s sound, I’ll use MySpace. On the other hand, if I’m already acquainted with the band, Wikipedia is a great resource to learn more.
In recent article over the same topic, Digital Music News explained Wikipedia got TWICE as many clicks as MySpace. That statistic sure struck a chord with me..