EightBlack.

Since this post, an amazing story unfolded.

And again, the almost instant gratification that the web provides (especially streaming web videos) made it a lot easier for the following to occur.

Okay, Paul Potts, the singing mobile phone salesman ended up winning the national competition, Britains’ Got Talent. No surprise there. Although this video, and this one - deserve special mention as they are just crackers and the show and experience proves to me that although they both didn’t win, the 15 minutes of fame would have been good for their soul.

So, back to Paul Potts.

He wins the final, wins the 100 grand (pounds, so its real money) and surprise, surprise, the effable Simon Cowell ends up signing Paul the Monday morning after the show finishes on Sunday night for a reported $1 million pound recording contract via Sony BMG and via grumpy-bums own recording label - Syco.

I’m not doubting that the format of the show and the sheer “human-ness” of the whole thing contributed mostly to its success. But the producers undeniably know the influence and power of the web and platforms such as YouTube in helping them get massive traction globally.

I’m also a believer in the fact that as a result of YouTube, a little American broadcaster called NBC were immediately able to see Paul in action and then arranged for him to be in New York that same week for a special appearance on the prime time morning show - Good Morning America. He flew there and back inside of 24 hours and life, as he knows it, will never be the same for him or his good lady wife ever again. Good.

And I dont believe for one second all that nonsense that he’ll remain unchanged as a result of his new found fame or fortune. It changes everyone. And besides, having an intimate relationship with one Simon Cowell has to change you. I will admit to this though - the UK version of the show (of course the Yanks have a version) almost portrays Cowell as human. I said “almost”.

Anyway, back to the issue at hand.

From an audience of say 12 million viewers (the shows final episode ratings in the UK), to a viral phenomenon courtesy YouTube (say conservatively 30 million views of the top contestants) and then a 5 minute stint on one of the highest rating shows in the USA.

Now that sort of exposure is guaranteed to sell albums, downloads, or both. Add Simon Cowell to the mix and the end result is as good as gold bullion. By the truckload.

And by the way, here’s a great site for converting YouTube clips to a format for your PC, Mac or iPod. Its free, simple to operate and completely bullet proof. Even people like me can figure it out!

(Image courtesy ITV)

Subscribe to more posts like this

Related Posts:

Add to | | | View blog reactions

This entry was posted on Monday, June 25th, 2007 at 11:50 pm and is filed under Video Content, YouTube. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.