In perhaps one of the greatest new marketing moves ever, Chicago-based band Wilco released an album on its site called Star Wars.
From the band’s announcement of the new 11-song album: “Consider it a gift from Wilco, or as [frontman] Jeff [Tweedy] calls it, ‘a jolt of joy: a fun surprise.’ ”
You can listen to Wilco’s Star Wars now as a free download until Aug. 13 on their site, iTunes, Amazon and Google Play. It’s also streaming on Spotify, Apple Music and Rdio.
Admittedly, I have not listened to it yet, but the AV Club called it a “roughhewn, fuzzed-out blast,” which makes it sound like something Han Solo would certainly appreciate. The album’s release date is Aug. 21.
It’s always fascinating to see who will experiment with free downloads and streaming vs. those, like Taylor Swift, who fight to be paid. While there is no one right path for everyone when it comes to releasing their music, it goes to show that different artists will take different tactics to reach their audiences.
And, of course, naming your album after the most anticipated film of the year doesn’t hurt.
