I was under the impression that radio, internet and broadcast, was dead. To that end, this radio part of this debate, seemed like arguing about the quickest route for the Pony Express to take. Am I wrong? Do a lot of people still discover music this way?
Zod
Since I run a radio show as well I will reply to this comment. The internet radio listener base is not as dead as you would think it is. Is it booming and amazingly big? No.
Most internet radio stations and DJ's for the most part are the biggest bullshitters known to man lying about stuff to get free CD's, and a few idiots to "donate" to their websites. This is why so many stations, and DJ's come, and go. No reputation, and no credibility (and no on air personality) ....point black most are nothing but hacks and posers and thats my opinion, and thats why I feel that those types of things hurt the "radio, internet and broadcast" industry.
With my show I get quite a few listeners (and requests) but thats spanning all my stations and affiliates Im on at the same time. I have my own feed which is then picked up by 16 other stations that syndicate it. My chatroom which is run on the same MIRC server as the PPUSA chat usually brings in about 50 people during my LIVE show every Wednesday. That is a lot of chatters for a weekly internet radio show especially since many people aren't into the chat thing.
The best part is most of my listeners hear what I play and then go purchase the albums, and contact the bands usually via myspace to tell them how awesome they are and that they were heard on my show. This is nice because it helps both me and the artist get more exposure.
As for the whole promo debate. I don't see any problems with digital promos or 2 or 3 non voiceover tracks.
I also do a lot of special "CD Showcases" with approval from the bands and/or management as well as theme shows which helps with bringing in listeners.