#dana to merch 1-5

[snackpointcharlie]

On this episode of Snackpoint Charlie we are joined in the studio by the esteemed multimedia artist Mr. Brian Dewan. Will he play some long-lost tracks from his record collection, read an obscure text, or dazzle us with his acapella Captain Beefheart impression? ANSWER: all of the above! “There There” host Alanna Medlock rounds out the evening with spontaneous interjections as only she knows how. Live on air Wednesday, April 19 from 10pm to midnight on WGXC, 90.7 FM in the Hudson Valley and Podcast NOW on WGXC.org, the Wave Farm smartphone app, the podcast aggregator of your choice, or direct download below

Snackpoint Charlie - Transmission 113 - 2023.04.19 - Brian Dewan PLAYLIST https://wavefarm.org/wf/archive/cw3xsr [ ^ click for download ^ ]

1) Mamady Kouyate - “Sobaro Maloya” from PROCLAMATION https://www.discogs.com/release/26726327-Various-Yonatan-Gat-Stone-Tapes

2) Sonic Boom & Delia Derbyshire - “Only the Loveliest” from ESOPUS 3: PRODUCT DISPLACEMENT https://www.esopus.org/issues/view/3

3) Eva Novoa - “Rectangles” from NOVOA KAMAGUCHI CLEAVER TRIO - VOL. 1 http://evanovoa.com/

4) Nada Kentjana - “Nelengnengkung” from PADANG MOONRISE: THE BIRTH OF THE MODERN INDONESIAN RECORDING INDUSTRY (1955-69) https://soundwayrecords.bandcamp.com/album/padang-moonrise-the-birth-of-the-modern-indonesian-recording-industry-1955-69

5) Rita Zaharah - “Djiko Untuang” from MUSICAL TREASURES OF INDONESIA https://www.discogs.com/release/8773386-Various-Musical-Treasures-of-Indonesia

6) Maxine Funke - “Oblivion” from RIVER SAID https://maxinefunke1.bandcamp.com/album/river-said (feat. Brian Dewan)

7) Sublime Frequencies - “Kazib City” from I REMEMBER SYRIA https://sublime-frequencies.bandcamp.com/album/i-remember-syria

8) Witness K - “Fantasy in Facsimile” from S/T https://evernever-records.bandcamp.com/album/s-t-5 (feat. Alanna Medlock)

9) Arovane - “yua:e” from ICOL DISTON https://arovane.bandcamp.com/album/icol-diston

10) Golden Book Films: Storytime Series - “Dragon in a Wagon”

11) Rully Djohan - “Bubuj Bulan” from BUBUJ BULAN / NAGHM EL UNS https://soundwayrecords.bandcamp.com/album/bubuj-bulan-naghm-el-uns

12) Ed McCurdy with Dana McCurdy - “Through All the World Below” from “ON JORDAN’S STORMY BANKS I STAND…” - SACRED SONGS OF AMERICA https://folkways.si.edu/ed-and-dana-mccurdy/on-jordans-stormy-banks-i-stand-sacred-songs-of-america/american-folk/music/album/smithsonian

13) Brian Dewan - “The Dust Blows Forward 'n The Dust Blows Back”

14) Stella Kola - “Set Out Too Soon” from STELLA KOLA https://stellakola.bandcamp.com/album/stella-kola

15) Meiko Kaji - “Onna Kawaki Uta / おんな渇き唄” from HAJIKI UTA https://wewantsounds.bandcamp.com/merch/meiko-kaji-hajiki-uta-deluxe-gatefold-lp-edition-with-2p-insert-and-obi-black-vinyl

16) Ak'chamel, The Ecstatic Brotherhood of Anima Mundi - “Why Did the Taliban Burn 10,000 Copies of Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon in a Public Square?” from ESOPUS 25: JOKES https://www.esopus.org/issues/view/25

17) The Residents - “Inner Space” from LOSS OF THE LIZARD LADY (THE MOLLY HARVEY COLLECTION) https://secretrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-residents-loss-of-the-lizard-lady-the-molly-harvey-collection-sr13

18) Randy Weston - “Night in Medina” from BLUE MOSES https://www.discogs.com/release/736174-Randy-Weston-Blue-Moses (feat. Alanna Medlock)

19) Brian Dewan - “Orange Claw Hammer”

20) The Cambodian Space Project - “Whiskey Cambodia” from WHISKEY CAMBODIA https://www.discogs.com/master/1181500-The-Cambodian-Space-Project-Whisky-Cambodia (feat. Brian Dewan)

21) Mohamed Taha, Khadra, and Fatma Toubi - “Toubi Ya Nafs توبي يا نفس” from YA NAFS توبي يا نفس https://arabicsinglesgoingsteady.blogspot.com/2023/01/mohamed-taha-khadra-fatima-toubi-ya.html https://www.discogs.com/release/22561856-%D9%85%D8%AD%D9%85%D8%AF-%D8%B7%D9%87-%D8%AA%D9%88%D8%A8%D9%8A-%D9%8A%D8%A7-%D9%86%D9%81%D8%B3-

22) Peter Rabbit Records - “Who's Afraid of the Rain, Rain, Rain” from HOW TO BE HAPPY ON A RAINY DAY https://www.discogs.com/release/10511487-Unknown-Artist-How-To-Be-Happy-On-A-Rainy-Day

23) Brian Dewan - “Well”

23) Omar Khorshid - “Pop Corn” from BELLY DANCE WITH OMAR KHORSHID VOLUME 3 https://www.discogs.com/release/4641947-Omar-Khorshid-Belly-Dance-With-Omar-Khorshid-Volume-3

[jamesv-t]

Gig Survey 2019

Top 5 shows of the year?

Zara Larsson, Electric Brixton, 22nd May

Carly Rae Jepsen, XOYO London, 29th May

Rammstein, Franchise FC stadium Milton Keynes, 6th July

Kylie/Clean Bandit, Brighton Pride, 6th August

Aly & AJ, Scala London, 11th July

Lucy Rose, Barbican Theatre London, 4th December

Anavae, Concorde 2 Brighton, 6th November

Marina, Brighton Centre, 5th November

Jenny Lewis, Concorde 2 Brighton, 24th July

Ariana Grande, O2 London, 19th August

Total number of shows?

Seventeen, up six from last year.

First show of the year?

Lucy Rose at Resident Records, Brighton, on the 22nd March.

Last show of the year?

Lucy Rose at the Barbican Theatre in London, 4th December.

Most surprising show?

Zara Larsson. I was gently bullied into going - Dana suggested it, and then prodded me towards going in the hope that I’d be disappointed and ramp down my listening of her. Instead I was surprised at how good she was, and how much I enjoyed the set!

Most disappointing?

Lucy Rose in Brussels, through no fault of the artist herself - I overheated and fainted for the first time in my life three songs in, and so missed a large chunk of the set due to recovering in the foyer.

Farthest travelled?

Ancienne Belgique in Brussels - 255 miles or 409 km away from home.

States attended shows in?

Cheerful, grateful, euphoric, terrified, bored, knackered - and new for 2019, unconscious!

Venue most visited?

Concorde 2 in Brighton, twice.

Worst injury?

Nothing! I did bang my head when I fainted at Lucy Rose, but I totally calculator pineapple.

Most expensive ticket?

£60 plus fees for Rammstein. Worth every single penny.

Band seen the most?

Lucy Rose 2.2 times, just ahead of Anavae with two complete sets.

Best new discovery?

I was vaguely aware of Clean Bandit before due to them featuring artists that I care about (and Demi Lovato) on their album, but I didn’t click with them until their Pride set. Other than that, I’ve stayed fairly within my lane.

Bands seen this year that also broke up this year?

None!

Friends made at shows?

Every gig I went to was either with Dana or my family, save the Zara Larsson gig and I was feeling too anti-social to interact with the posers or the stans who filled the first few rows around me. 

Band members met?

Becca and Jamie from Anavae, and Lucy Rose - but I feel like it doesn’t count when they either took your wedding photos or have been shown them after a gig! Apart from that the obligatory Carly Rae Jepsen photo in a Rammstein t-shirt post gig, a brief exchange with Jenny Lewis before her set, and some grateful smiles from both Zara Larsson and her younger sister (supporting) at me actually enjoying myself during their sets.

Best souvenir from a show?

I didn’t get that much from shows this year. Zara’s shirts were not to my tastes, we’d got all the Anavae merch they were selling, and while I liked the dual pastel pink/faded orange Ariana Grande shirt, I didn’t like it enough to drop £35 on it. I had no such problems buying another Carly Rae Jepsen t-shirt, and a medium hoodie that was far too small for me in May but fits me now; I also got a Rammstein tour tee which features a very me design. Away from shows but still music related I received a Romance shirt from the Camila Cabello listening party that exposes my belly in a way that flatters nobody. I also went a bit crazy on new years day when, after watching the Taylor Swift reputation tour movie on Netflix for the fourth time, I got an email advertising discounts on her store. I picked up two more rep era t-shirts and some additional items when I realised I could spend £40 on shipping or the same amount on the softest, most comfortable hoodie I’ve ever worn!

Longest time in line?

About three hours before Carly, but it was completely worth it. We were on the barriers at Pride about eight hours before Kylie hit the stage, but we had other acts that we were interested in playing beforehand so that doesn’t count.

Shows seen from the barricade [front row]?

Oh, that’s a nice segue. Kylie from the pleb barrier, Lucy from the front row at the Barbican, and Jenny Lewis. We’ve also been very near the front at Anavae, Zara, Carly, and Aly & AJ.

Most shows in one month?

May had 3 and a half.

Most shows in one week?

Two, Marina and Anavae in successive days in November.

Biggest crowd?

Rammstein had 32,000 in Milton Keynes. No crowd size given for Kylie at Brighton Pride, though.

Any drunk encounters?

I’m fairly certain that the beer and chocolate tour around Brussels before Lucy Rose didn’t help my situation. I demonstrated that my lesson had been learned by having several beers before her gig at the Barbican in December - however these were free, courtesy of Camila Cabello’s record label. 

Top 5 best 2019 concert moments:

1. In keeping with my habit of wearing Rammstein shirts to pop gigs, I decided that it was only fair to wear a pop shirt to the Rammstein gig in July. After several Twitter polls I settled on my new Carly Rae Jepsen t-shirt. As you’d expect, this got me a few odd glances, as well as some positive comments (several people declared it the most metal thing they’d seen) but one in particular stood out. Passing the merch queue while looking for our seats I was suddenly yanked into a handshake and a hug by a very tall bearded gentleman, who explained that among their group of friends they were having a competition for band t-shirts, awarding each other points for each nominated artist spotted. They’d also picked a surprising artist each, on the proviso that they’d get 250 points (a near unassailable lead) if it was spotted - and this gentleman had picked Carly Rae Jepsen as his choice!

2. Zara Larsson. I know I shouldn’t be surprised that a Swede does pop well, but I was going in expecting Dua Lipa levels of charisma, and was surprised at her energy levels, enthusiasm, and general commitment!

3. Speaking of enthusiastic performances with high energy, Carly brought her traditional levels to London for a set that showed just how good she really is, and how much the general public are missing out by sleeping on her.

4. Marina (formerly of & The Diamonds) impressed me. Aided by a very enthusiastic crowd (it was the first time she’d performed in Brighton in seven years, and many of those attending didn’t look old enough to have gone to that last gig) it became a positive feedback loop - everything would galvanise the crowd, which she’d feed off of and up her game, which just excited the crowd further!

5. I got to see my childhood crush perform 15 minutes walk from my flat, and she included the campest, Euro-poppiest album track in the encore as a nod to the audience.

Top 3 worst 2018 concert moments:

1. Fainting was weird. I don’t much care for it.

2. I didn’t get home from Rammstein until half past 3 in the morning. I’m not young enough to cope with nights that late any more!

3. Genuinely can’t think of anything else negative to put here. Let’s see off the year on a high then!

[rndyounghowze]

Take 5 and Lessons Learned Season 2 Coming Up Along With Other Long-Awaited Videos.

By Ricky and Dana Young-Howze

Mays Landing, NJ

Venmo: @rndyounghowze

Last year when we started interviewing people we never thought we were creating a blog series. We were just taking recordings so we could transcribe them into blog posts. Then we started getting a backlog going and Dana has the wonderful idea of “just put them online”. That “just” meant learning how to edit videos on the fly and trying to slog through the mountains of great content we had piling up. That unfortunately meant a lot of videos got out late and we rang in the New Year with videos that were months late.

That means that next week the last of the old videos will be out. We’ll have the last installment of our interview with Dominic Taylor, a promo for Gorilla Rep’s Macbeth with Leajato Robinson and C C Sanderson, the Season 1 Finale of Lessons Learned with Genny Yosco just in time for her birthday!!! We’re so sorry to you and them that their videos are late and while we’re taking our lumps we’re also learning new lessons that will help make Season 2 even better!

We have new videos coming up! Starting around the middle of January we will be debuting Season 2 of Lessons Learned and Take 5 with interviews of Ashley Wool, Roger Q. Mason, and Diana Wyenn. We hope to be scheduling new videos soon and when we get them planned we’ll be announcing their release date.

We’re also researching new filming techniques so that we can spend less time editing and more time interviewing and debuting videos. If only we had a lot of experience seeing live streamed and filmed Zoom performances. Oh wait we do! We have found some things that companies are doing in shows that we’ve reviewed that we thought were really cool.

One of the things we’re considering is switching to live videos or shooting an hour long program in Zoom that has a lot more production value. When we figure it out we’ll let you know and invite you to tell us how it looks. Until then please be patient with us. Our little two person team is working as hard as we can.

*****A Word From Our Sponsors*****

We have a YouTube Channel. We’re working furiously to get new videos up weekly.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0M6M04VtDpqFzVLxjfrRZA

We have official merch now! Keep us fed and get gifts for the family all at the same time!

https://teespring.com/rnd-younghowze?pid=972

Wanna be a sponsor? Email us for rates at rndyounghowze@gmail.com

Check out our Social Media

Twitter: @rndyounghowze

Instagram: @rndyounghowze

Facebook: Ricky and Dana Young-Howze

[newagesispage]

                                                                            NOVEMBER   2020

 PAGE RIB

 Let all the good, kind and warm thoughts of the universe descend on our Jax and keep him safe. May the love see him to a speedy recovery.

*****

Check out Trumpty Dumpty wanted a crown as read by Meryl Streep, Glenn Close and Joseph Gordon Levitt.

*****

The Good Lord Bird is getting good reviews. It is very intense.

*****

Lori Loughlin began her prison sentence.

***** Filthy Rich was canceled and it had just gotten started. It is a shame because I was digging it, good performances by all!!

*****

Scarlett Johansson and Colin Jost are married.

*****

Yamiche Alcindor has gotten the International Women’s media foundation Gwen Ifill award. YES!

*****

Tim Curry, Barry Bostwick and Nell Campbell appeared on Halloween with Wisconsin Democrats for the Rocky Horror show livestream. Donations will help Biden/ Harris.** Tenacious D reminded us to vote with a time warp tribute that had many great cameos!!

*****

Keith Richards has given us, ‘Hate it when you leave.’

*****

Days alert: The show is building up to a who killed Jan Spears mystery.** I am ready for Phillip to leave town. ** We needed a good prison break story just in time for Halloween!!** There is talk of bringing EJ back but James Scott has retired from show biz . People are making suggestions for another actor? Who should it be? Trevor St. John?** So Hope is just gone? No big send off?? Huh?

*****

I’m open to the possibility that there are Culkin siblings we don’t even know about yet. –Conan O’Brien

*****

Ron Howard’s Hillbilly Elegy looks great.  The award talk has begun.

*****

Sandra Oh and Awkwafina are set to star in a Netflix film about sisters.

*****

Elliott Broidy, a top fundraiser for Trump was indicted for foreign lobbying and he pled guilty.

*****

Actors in Mclean, Va. are performing a drive thru drama for spectators. They will lead you thru a mystery and then ask you to solve it at the end. Fun!

*****

The competing town halls were quite a spectacle. FU NBC. 2 candidates not debating  just pushes us deeper into our own bubbles.** JJ Abrams, Ava DuVerney, Mariska Hargitay and about 100 others sent a petition to NBC. # NBC Blackout ** At least Ms. Guthrie did ask the tough questions.

*****

Clue dolls have arrived!!

*****

Del Monte has brought us the pink glow pineapple for $49

*****

NFL player Dana Stubblefield got 15 years for rape.

*****

Imagine if Trump cared about coronavirus as much as he cares about Joe Biden’s son. – Ezra Klein

*****

Word is that tenants are leaving condos at a loss to themselves just to get out of Trump tower.

*****

The Dodgers won the World Series.

*****

Jeffrey Toobin is being investigated after he allegedly exposed himself and masturbated on a zoom call with the New Yorker staff. He has also been taken off CNN.** Bill Maher has coined the expression ‘toobin’ as the word we will use when Zoom meetings that were so boring, “I was toobin.”

*****

Jeff Bridges has announced that he has lymphoma.

*****

Mexican farmers armed themselves with sticks, rocks and shields and ambushed soldiers to take over a dam. The Mexican government has been giving the little water they had to Texas per a prior deal. 1 protester was shot and killed by a guard. One farmer , Victor Veldervain said, “ This is war.”

*****

I may not be able to change my Father’s mind but together, we can vote this toxic administration out of office. –Caroline Giulliani

*****

Be not afraid of the accusations that you’re a voter suppressor. –J. Christian Adams

*****

A “liberal oasis” is how Pine Lake, Ga. is known. They aren’t as fair minded as they sound for the city is 100% funded by traffic tickets that are mostly given to people of color.

*****

Court packing ? Really? Mitch McConnell refused to seat 100+ Federal judges for Obama. Not to mention Merrick Garland.

*****

Justices Alito and Thomas are letting it be known that they want to overturn Obergefell and stop marriage equality.** Barrett was confirmed to the supreme court with Susan Collins voting ‘no.’** Lindsey Graham advanced 5 lower court nominees out of judiciary committee which breaks rules. One of those, Kathryn Mizelle has been rated not qualified!

*****

Much of our Covid money has went to fracking.

*****

It looks like the Philip Guston art exhibit which was set to appear in 4 museums will be postponed.

*****

The Pope has installed the first African American cardinal, Wilton Gregory.

*****

An Illinois cop killed Marcellis Stinnette and wounded Tafarra Williams after a chase. The cop with no name was fired.

*****

Ken Kurson, good friend of Kushner’s was arrested on a cyberstalking charge.

*****

Jonathon Alter has given us the book, Jimmy Carter, A Life. It shows us just how good we had it if we would have paid attention. The man passed 14 environmental bills.

*****

Sean Hannity has set up a camera outside of Joe Biden’s house to what.. stalk him I guess??

*****

The Executive order on creating schedule F: Is this true?( It is always amazing that these old white men act so stupid on the front lines while behind the scenes they are always thinking. )Trump signed an executive order to fuck with the Pendleton civil service reform act. By changing the word ‘competitive’ to ‘excepted’, it gets rid of an employee’s ability to appeal dismissal and changes it to the pleasure of the President. Essentially, if he finds a civil servant disloyal, they could be dismissed and replaced by whomever. This act removes the career merit program. The deadline for review of these people is January 19. If he chose to he could fire many that are working today and replace them with his own people even if he loses. The order applies to about 9 million confidential, policy determining, policy making and policy advocating servants. Biden can come in and try to change things but it won’t help that many Federal courts have new appointees from the current administration.  

*****

I like Presidents who don’t get Covid-19. –Sean Penn** The WH seems to have been infested with virus. Did Hope Hicks start all of this? The rumors keep flying about an affair. It has been confirmed that those rallies are a public health hazard.  The whole Amy Coney Barrett crap started with a super spreader. What an Omen!** When Fauci saw that he said, :Nothing good can come out of this.” The WH has blocked the CDC from requiring masks on public transport.

*****

New information is coming out about the Mueller investigation. The WH sort of threatened the team about their investigation. If the people being investigated can kill an investigation, we don’t have a democracy. If the WH is suing about everything that is being looked into, how can anyone really look into it? Most people would not cooperate for they know if anything is found, they would be pardoned so why put it out there.

*****

Fox news works so hard at skewing. Headline: Hunter Biden investigation connected to probe. That means nothing. Headline: After debate cancellation, they will finally debate again. No mention of why debate cancelled. ** Trump stranded rally goers in the cold in Omaha.

*****

Tim Hutton and a friend have been accused of the rape of Sera Johnston in 1983.** 7 more sexual account charges have been added to the Ron Jeremy case.

*****

Why God repeatedly lies to Pat Robertson, I will never understand. –Eugene Mirman

*****

Love Springsteen’s line about “more respect for the integrity of our ship” than personal issues. He was talking about the E Street Band but it works for so many things.** Check out his new album. Letter to you.

*****

The Proud Boys had merch up right up after the debate. The group (the name a reference in the Aladdin play is ready to stand back and stand by.** The Governor of Puerto Rico has endorsed Trump.** The Biden team put out a flyswatter after the next debate just as quickly!! ** Did Pence really act like a man in charge of the pandemic response??

*****

Facebook has banned QAnon.

*****

Father of the Bride part 3ish was very cute. I have been saying for years that the next installment should be sort of a Father of the Groom and it finally happened. The cast gave advice for the pandemic, moved the story along and introduced DeNiro to the family. Hooray Kieran!!

*****

Gretchen Witmer was nearly kidnapped when some yahoos wanted to take over the government.  This civil war idea gets more real every day.** A man in Maryland was arrested for threatening to kidnap and kill Biden and Harris.** We must never forget that a militia is subject to the rules and laws of our Government. Without those rules, they are an illegal paramilitary organization.

*****

A judge has ruled that the Trump rape case may proceed after the DOJ was caught lying.

*****

Trump walked out of a 60 minutes interview. Kayleigh McEnany gave Leslie Stahl a large book that was supposed to show the work the administration had done on health care. The book had words but not about health care.** Seth Meyers had a hilarious take on the way Trump is bitching about the interview: The TV lady was very mean to me. That could be said about a few interviews lately. He can dish it out but…

*****

Make the lie big, make it simple, keep saying it and eventually they will believe it. –Adolf Hitler

*****

Keith Raniere has been sentenced to 120 years in prison.

*****

Fuck the bloated Nazi. –John Cusack

*****

The FBI announced Iran and Russia are meddling in our election. I think we know that. Now back to the secret Chinese bank account that Trump has.

*****

Sasha Baron Cohen is back with Borat and a nice op ed in Time magazine.

*****

Benedict Cumberbatch will be in Spiderman 3 as Dr. Strangelove.

*****

Lindsey Graham was on Fox begging for $ after Harrison, he opponent brought in big $.

*****

Trump supporters support him because of the way they see the world and their place in it. – Hillary Clinton

*****

Scary Clown 45 told his Senate to stop talking to the Dems about stimulus then tried to walk it back a bit. He is just doing everything he can to not get elected. What a big FU to the country.** Major news outlets the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and the Washington Post are keeping their reporters safe and not sending them on the Trump trail.

*****

Glow was suddenly cancelled. What??

*****

Cecily Strong has a new show with Keegan Michael Key, Alan Cumming, Kristen Chenowith and Fred Armisen on Apple tv.

*****

The first town hall with Biden was good. How reassuring to hear a level headed leader. Why does the audience always think they have to ask a 5 min question? Let’s move it along so we can get somewhere. And, really.. who in this country has not made up their mind who to vote for? I guess that is why candidates have to campaign for 2 years. Biden seemed like the camera man got a little under his skin but it had to be filmed.  He said that we should make Roe a law. ** NBC decided to give Trump airtime on the same night as Biden’s town hall. The conspiracy President cancelled the debate so at least we will hear what Biden is saying. At this point, they should both be put behind glass to keep them and the rest of us safe.** Stay calm after the election and remember that the election is not even certified until December.

*****

The last debate showed a very restrained Trump. He actually said, “I appreciate that” when he was allowed to talk another minute. He actually did shut up and listen. It’s pretty sad when we praise him for behaving normally. Biden sounded quite regal and made sense but more detail would have been nice. I am not sure why Scary Clown got on Biden for selling pillows and sheets.

*****

The anonymous man that everyone was trying to figure out in 2018 has been revealed. Miles Taylor wrote a NY Times op ed and book, A Warning that gave insight to the Trump administration. Taylor, who was critical of Trump was the chief of staff to Dept. of Homeland Security secretary Kirstjen Nielson. He played a part in separating the immigrant children from their parents.

*****

Pence’s fly is on a ventilator. –Bill Maher

*****

Farmer welfare will reach a record $46 billion this year.

*****

Trump was upset that Biden was asked the question, “What flavor of ice cream did you get?” after leaving a shop. It really seemed to stick in his craw.

*****

Quibi is shutting down after 6 months.

*****

Niecy Nash is getting a talk show.

*****

Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton are engaged.

*****

Tatum O’Neal allegedly tried to commit suicide.

*****

The Animaniacs are coming back. ** Dexter will be back with 10 new episodes.

*****

Larry David married Ashley Underwood.

*****

Samuel L. Jackson’s series Enslaved is riveting.  The informative show teaches us about the African slave trade and the ships that sunk trying to take them to slavery.

*****

Engaging with assholes on the internet is like trying to down a vampire with your own blood. –Andy Richter

*****

Ya gotta check out the Ramona Fradon cartoon with Trump and Wonder Woman.

*****

Critics are raving about Michelle Pfeiffer in French Exit.

*****

Suburban women, will you please like me? – Donald Trump** How could Iowa possibly still be half for Trump? WTF?

*****

R.I.P. Jack Legend,  Bob Gibson, Lillian Brown, Irma Dryden, Johnny Nash, Tommy Rall, Desiree S. Anzalone, covid -19 victims, Margaret Nolan, Tom Kennedy, Jeff Tolbert, Saint Dog, Roberta McCain, Rhonda Fleming, Erin Wall, Joe Morgan, Bert Quint, the Amazing Randi, Spencer Davis, James Redford, Viola Smith, Murray Schisgal , DeOndra Dxon, Maurice Segal, Ming Cho Lee ,Eddie Van Halen, the victims of Nice, victims of the typhoon Molave, victims of the Senegal shipwreck, Lou Pallo, Sean Connery, Billy Joe Shaver and Conchata Ferrell.

[thevoidbreather]

FSP6 intervju: Že-Že

Kao što mnogi znaju, Festival srpskog podzemlja će se ove godine održati na malo drugačiji način. Kovid kriza i mere uvedene zbog toga su vezale ruke organizatorima koji ne samo da nisu klonuli duhom, već su smogli snage da održe kontinuitet ove manifestacije. Ekipa Ciklonizacije je veoma počastvovana time što je dobila mogućnost da postavi pitanja ovogodišnjim učesnicima 6. FSP-a. Čast da prvi odgovori na načih 15 pitanja je pripala Željku Dikliću iz benda ŽeŽe.

1. Kovid kriza je uticala na sve sfere društva na globalnom nivou. No, posebno su pogođeni umetnici, pogotovo oni iz andergraund miljea. Kako se vi snalazite u ovom teškom vremenu? Prosto sam nastavio da pravim muziku kao da se ništa nije promenulo. Šta više fokusirao sam se na pravljenje nove muzike u svim mojim bendovima. Mnogo više nego ranije, jer nemamo ono "ometanje" sa pripremama za nastup. Ja inače najviše uživam u tom kreativnom procesu, čak mogu reći i mnogo više nego u nastupima pa mi nekako nije teško ovo palo ako zanemarimo da se zaista desila katastrofa. Sve se nadam da ovo neće trajati jako dugo i time održavam taj pozitivni stav. U fazonu sam super, sada konačno imam vremena da napravim gomilu nove muzike.

A sto se tiče samog života i tu sam nekako ok sa situacijom jer sam skoro dobio dete pa sam se više pitao kada bih ja uopšte bio sa detetom obzirom na gomile poslova i obaveza koje sam imao pre krize, nego što sam brinuo o tome što su mi se finansije prepolovile u najbolju ruku. 

2. Činjenica je da članovi inostranih i, uslovno rečeno, uspešnih bendova imaju neke druge, mahom nemuzičke izvore prihoda, te im egzistencija ne zavisi od sviranja. Kakav je slučaj kod vas – kojim se poslovima vi bavite da biste paralelno sa preživljavanjem u Srbiji održavali svoje bend? Igrom slučaja jedan od mojih poslova je držanje prostorija za probe bendova "Brutal Studio" pa imam mogućnosti da bukvalno radim dok sviram. To je idealna varijanta. E sada, bendovi slabo dolaze pa nemamo posla kao ranije ali za sada možemo da se održavamo. Pored toga bavim se pravljenjem nameštaja, a od nedavno se zatvorila fabrika vinyla "Soulpeddler" u kojoj sam pravio ploče i radio razne iventove pa sam malo lošiji finansijski ali zato mnogo bolji vremenski, što mi baš prija. U svakom slučaju nije mi loše.

3. Lično smatram da se previše ljudi poziva na andergraund i međusobno pomaganje, ali da s reči na dela pređe veoma mali postotak njih. Kakvo je vaše dodadašnje iskustvo u toj sferi? Ja lično baš puno podržavam domaću scenu, ne samo muzičku. Nema tu pravila, neko voli da priča a ne radi ništa po tom pitanju, neko prosto učestvuje koliko god može... Mislim da ljudi ovde još uvek nemaju tu svest o podršci, ne shvataju koliko je to u stvari bitno, čak i oni koji se bave time. Mnogo ljudi je revoltirano jer se puno u poslednje vreme priča o tome pa namerno ne podržavaju, čak imaju i neki kao stav o tome. Jako mi je to tužno. Mislim da samo primerom možemo postići nešto, a ne olajavanjem onih što ne podržavaju. Radi, podigni to što radiš na što ozbiljnini nivo i ako to radiš iz pravih razloga, nemaš nikakve brige.

4. S obzirom na to da su građani Srbije prošli tušta i tma tokom poslednjih nekoliko decenija, ljudi sa andergraund scene su baš u najtežim vremenima bili najtešnje povezani. Koliko je korona kriza uticala na vaše kolege, fanove, prijatelje i poznanike iz UG sveta da se okrenu jedni drugima? Pa ovo je situacija koja te udaljava praktično od prijatelja, ali nije se puno toga promenulo osim što nema tih većih koncerata na kojima smo se svi sretali i družili. Ovako se vidjamo isto, na manjim iventovima, u studiu, itd. Samo se pridražavamo mera zaštite, distanca i ne pušimo isti džojus, nego svako svoj.

5. Digitalizacija je danas svojevrsni standard, delimično omržen kod tvrdokornije garde. Ipak, činjenica je da se baš digitalizacijom još više ljudi povezalo tokom godina i da im je ona pomogla kroz nametnutu socijalnu izlociju tokom kovid krize. Kakav je vaš pogled na sve to? Najbolje je kada je tu sve! I digitalno i analogno, ali obzirom na situaciju samo će malo više sada da bude digitalno i to može da mrzi ili voli ko hoće ali bolje da se dešava nego da se ne dešava. I svaka vam čast na ovome, baš ste me obradovali što ste se odlučili da ipak održite moj omiljeni festival 🖤

6. Na ovogodišnjem FSP-u ćete nastupati onlajn. Iako mnogi bendovi snimaju, te i direktno strimuju probe, onlajn nastupi su postali „standard“ tek poslednjih 6 meseci. Da li ovakav sled okolnosti predstavlja izazov za vas? Apsolutno da, vrlo zanimljiv koncept iz koga sam za ovako malo vremena puno toga naučio. Skroz je drugačija postavka i priprema. Vrlo sam uzbudjen što imam priliku da ovako nastupam i još jednom veliko hvala na pozivu!

7. U nekim evropskim zemljama je bilo festivala tokom leta (sa sve pratećim sigurnosnim merama), a neki koncerti u zatvorenom su bili ispunjeni svojevrsnim boksevima za nekoliko osoba radi izolacije od drugih grupa. Da li je bolje i tako održavati svirke, makar na određeni period, iako to znači manju zaradu? Apsolutno da! Uvek je bolje da se nešto dešava nego da se čeka da situacija prodje. Lično mislim da je vrlo lako rešivo pitanje koncerata i bez boxeva čak i sa istom zaradom samo treba da se oforme neka pravila koja bi bila zakonski regulisana. Kao npr. Broj ljudi je ograničen (dovoljno da ima razmaka izmedju gostiju) obavezno nošenje maski, stroga kontrola i veće cene karata, pa ko zaista želi on neka plati kartu. I ovako su cene karata mislim na underground scenu bile niske. Mislim da će time i bendovi biti motivisaniji da ozbiljnije pristupe svom radu jer neće plaćati oni koji će biti tamo samo zbog druženja.

8. Nevezano za žive nastupe, bend svoj rad prezentuje i kroz relativno redovna izdanja, prateći merchandise i slično. Ipak, da bi sve to bilo moguće potrebno je finansirati sve to. Koje su razlike u tome pre i posle kovid krize? Razlike su velike jer ljudi u glavnom kupuju merch na samom nastupu. Nije sjajna situacija bila ni pre krize barem kod nas, jer i dalje ljudi misle da treba da dobiju cd ili majcu a ne da kupe i podrže rad umetnika. Treba se više aktivirati na on-line prodaju pa će vremenom to doći na isto nadam se. U svakom slučaju je manja prodaja trenutno.

9. Da li su „plati i gledaj“ onlajn probe i nastupi jedan od načina da bendovi i umetnici sa UG scene prežive (tj. da natave da održavaju svoj rad)? To jeste jedan od načina i mislim da je sasvim korektno. Mada zaista mislim da je uz odredjene mere moguće nastaviti sa live nastupima, pa će biti obe opcije što je super za scenu generalno.

10. Da li ste tokom karantina bili u prilici da otkrijete neke nove bendove, muzičke pravce, da li vas je nešto novo oduševilo što bi dalje uticalo na vaše ideje tokom izolacije, ali i buduće stvaralaštvo? Jeste, provalio sam nekoliko novih bendova koji su me inspirisali za budući rad, čak sam par novih projekata i sam pokrenuo baš za vreme karantina. 11. Kako je u prethodnom periodu bilo neophodno okrenuti se drugim kanalima komunikacije i plasiranja stvaralaštva u većoj meri nego što je to ranije bio slučaj, da li za vas YouTube komentari mogu nadomestiti reakcije publike uživo? Ne mogu nadomestiti nikako, sasvim druga stvar je u pitanju ali podjednako bitna i zanimljiva na skroz drugi fazon. Ne bih uporedjivao te dve stvari. 12. Koliko znači pozitivan komentar na mreži u poređenju sa pozitivnom reakcijom nekog iz publike tokom živog nastupa? Da li vas pogađaju i oni negativni, ukoliko ih ima? Pozitivni komentari na mrežama mi znače podjednako kao i pozitivni komentari na koncertima a negativni komentari me nikako ne pogadjaju jer niko ne može da mi bude veća kritika od samog sebe. 13. Da li je Covid kriza smanjila jaz između poznatijih umetnika i underground scene, s obzirom da ste tokom prethodnog perioda bili prinuđeni da na neki način delite istu scenu? Da li je bilo kolaboracija u tom pravcu, ili takvih ideja? Ne, nisam primetio da se bilo šta promenulo tu, niti je bilo nekih ideja na tu temu barem sa moje strane.

14. U jednom tekstu vezanom za jednu posve drugačije temu je potpisnik istog napisao da svet i njegovo funkcionisanje treba gledati na period pre i posle kovid krize. Šta su vaša očekivanja kako za ovaj „prelazni“ period i i na vreme posle njega? Možemo samo da nagadjamo, od očekivanja nemamo ništa. Mislim da je bitnije da se prilagodjavamo pa sve što se vrati posle biće super a do tada treba maximalno uživati u tome što imamo i treba pokušati približiti stvari koje smo voleli a sada ih nemamo, na neki način koji je prihvatljiv.

15. Aderground kao pod-svet kulture bi trebalo da bude mnogo ujedinjeniji nego što jeste. Nažalost, sve se svodi na žanrovske i stilske podele, kao i na razna druga svojatanja i odvajanja. FSP je od starta zauzeo stav, što mu i naziv govori -  kompletan andergraund ove zemlje na jednom mestu svih alter stilova, svih vrsta umetnosti… Kako gledaš na kreaciju kao što je FSP, a sa druge strane na činjenicu da je kao takav skoro kompletno usamljen zbog prethodno nametnutih podela i sličnog? Usamljen ali i pun. Ja sam bio na svakom FSP-u i uvek je bilo krcato. Ljudi koji su žanrovski usko usmereni se neće promenuti, ali opet će doći na FSP jer će nastupati barem jedan od bendova koje oni vole. Ne znam kako je u nekim drugim mestima ali da, ovde ima primetio sam puno sujete i mržnje. Ne znam da li je to zato što smo u "manjem" gradu ili je to tako svuda... U principu se treba fokusirati na to da se  više bavimo podrškom onoga što ti se svidja umesto blaćenjem onoga što ti se ne svidja u čemu mahom ljudi više uživaju na žalost. Tako se leči sopstveno nezadovoljstvo meni se čini.

U svakom slučaju da, fali malo ujedinjenosti i podrške izmedju samih umetnika. Svako ko misli da mogu stvari da se poboljšaju po pitanju scene, treba samo da počne od sebe i problema nema. FSP je odličan primer da je sve moguće. I raznovrsnost bendova i medijski ispraćeno i kvalitetno tehnički... Svaka čast, cheers! 🍻

Intervju su priredili: Antonio Jovanović, Peđa Eraković i Milan Rakić

[theofficefantasyfootball]

WEEK 7 - Wrap Up

HOW YOU BOOIN’?!!

Yes, I know that Halloween won’t be here until next week, but when my daughter showed me this clip the other day, I knew I wouldn’t be able to wait that long to post it.  In it, Wendy Williams (talk show host) has a mild stroke/faints on live TV...and in the background as she falls it says on the screen HOW YOU BOOIN’?  LOL.  She explains in a longer clip that this was not a joke and that she did in fact fall and faint but it was because her costume made her too hot and she passed out!  So, how does this pertain to fantasy football?  Easy.  Guys, fantasy football is suppose to be fun.  Just like dressing up for Halloween is fun.  But, if you take it to serious, if you put on too many layers before you head out the door, you are going to overheat and you will pass out.  This year, I want to encourage you to enjoy fantasy football.  Don’t try so hard that you fall and hit your head on something.  It’s just not worth it.  The season will be over before you know it...for some sooner than others, so please relax and enjoy while you still can!

TREE HUGGERS vs MOOSES ON THE LOOSES

Hold up there Scotty K, not so fast!  You can have first place in the “even” division for 1 week but any more than that is not allowed thanks to The Moose!  And yes, that’s what Mitch wants me to believe.   He want’s me to think that the only reason Scott lost this week was all because of Mitch.  I have the text thread to prove it.  He wanted me to “thank him” for beating Scott.  He practically demanded it.  I reminded him that maybe he won because it was the first week this season that Tree Huggers didn’t break 100 points so maybe that was it.  No, he wouldn’t hear that.  He insisted that I thank him and you know what...I did.  I said, thank you Mitch for allowing Matt Ryan to get hurt, thank you for making David Johnson watch the game rather than play in it.  And thank you for leaving points on your bench by not playing Ekeler against the Titans.  If it wasn’t for you, I would not be where I am today.  Literally.  Sorry Scott.  I guess it’s good to get that one out of the way but hard to do it, like I did, against The Moose!  There’s always next week!

ISUCK vs LONG LEFT BALLERS

Speaking of winning.  I won.  But you know what?  Sometimes winning is sweet and sometimes it’s sour.  This week wasn’t all that sweet, I won 119 - 109 but there was literally a moment with 5 min left in the Dallas game where if Dak would have given the ball to Elliott to run in from the 6 yard line instead of taking it in himself - Bebo would have won by 1 point.  Also, had Bebo done the logical thing and played Marvin Jones instead of Calvin Ridley - he would have not only beat me but had the high point win for the week.  And let’s not forget losing Mahomes early...another reason I won.  So, am I glad I won?  Sure.  That kind of stuff happens to all of us...but I do wish that I could have beat him without knowing that 1 move here or 1 player different there and I would have been on a 2 game losing streak.  So, I guess if I need to thank anyone - it’s not Mitch...it’s Bebo for not having a Tight End to play and for the Marvin Jones debacle.  I will say he did put up an impressive 33 points on defense with the 10 point shut out bonus - which kept the game tight until the end.  Good game Bebo.  Go study!

HOWARD vs FUNK GUY

He’s the current Champion of this league.  He’s 5-2.  He just won high point and made $20.  He’s kind of a big deal.  He’s the “Funk Guy” and let me tell you - he takes fantasy football and this league very serious.  If that first paragraph applies to anyone it’s Dana.  Sometimes he might take it too personal.  If you don’t believe me check the waiver wire transactions and see how active he is.  He played Chase Edmonds just because....who does that...Dana does and Chase put up 38.  He had a great week from Brissett with 35 as well.  Howard on the other hand, how did he prepare?  Well he decided to NOT play Aaron Rodgers who had 53 points and he also played an Inactive Player - Devonte Adams.  You know what playing an inactive player tells me?  That Howard just doesn’t give a shit.  You know?  Who does that...plays a player who isn’t playing and let points sit on your bench.  He could have played AJ Brown.  Nope.  It’s disgusting frankly.  Good win Dana.  I am so sorry that you were matched up against someone who probably won’t even read this.  #neighbor

MR AWESOME vs TuPADRE

I am assuming that everyone in the league knows that Andy and Gabe are pretty much best friends.  They do the high five thing, they live in the trendy 12th South neighborhood together, they both play music...you get it.  So it doesn’t surprise me that this week Andy let Gabe win.  He saw that Gabe had only had 1 win this year...he knows he’s busy with his Taco business and he wanted to do him a solid and give him a win.  I wouldn’t even be surprise if they met about it on one of their long “high five” walks and Andy told him who to play and who to sit.  It also wouldn’t surprise me if Gabe gave him free tacos or Ladybird merch to compensate for the “arrangement”.  I don’t know how  you all feel about this but really I could care less.  Let them have their secret deals and shady backdoor football games.  I am going to focus on me and let them focus on them.  “Congrats Gabe” (wink wink)...good win!

BOOMER SOONER vs TRADE WITH ME

If anyone needed a win this week it was Stu Jones.  After losing 3 in row - he really really needed it.  Basically ever since he texted me in week 3 about how he is going to make the playoffs - he has lost...week after week after week.  Brett has a least has sprinkled in a win here and there to mask the pain.  Never mind that this match up was a bit like the Titans vs the Chargers (two 2-4 teams) meeting up in a battle to find out who is the worst.  In this case it was Brett Rutledge who came away with that honor- he is the Chargers in this analogy.  I mean there’s really not much to say about this one.  Fournette and Hopkins did what they were suppose to do and everyone else crapped the bed.  Stu left points on his bench but had enough going on in his line up to finish with the win.  To be honest, it’s possible that Lanakila vs Shart N Sweet should get the Minka award, final game still has to be played, but even if that happens I wanted Stu to have this lovely picture of Minka attending what looks like the premier of “Huntwatch” whatever that is...I am assuming it has little to do with Kareem Hunt...but maybe.  Good win Stu.  Brett - back to the trading room.  If you still want to do that deal of Watkins for Hopkins hit me up!

SHART N SWEET vs LANAKILA

Here we go - Lanakila slides into MNF once again looking to grab a win.  If he does - guess what - he will be 6-1 - something no one else in this league is so that will put him in 1st place over all.  When I sat to start writing this paragraph Lanakila was up 103 - 81.  The Patriots Defense is off to a good start and for Kyle - Sony has grabbed a TD and Meyers already has 35 yards - so it should be a good one to watch....

Ok - so once again the Patriots defense come up huge!  With the shut out bonus they grab a total of 43 points for Cliff.  Amazing.  The Patriots D could prove to be the MVP of the year in the NFL.  I know for Cliff they are for sure his MVP. 

Kyle - you had a great night with Sony Michel but it just wasn’t enough.  But once again - you outscored Mahomes with Watson this week - that HAS to feel good.  Good win Cliff - you almost stole the high point away from Dana.  So close!

SURVIVOR

It’s still going...no one lost.  Everyone moves on. 

[iheartmoosiq]

[INTERVIEW]

FUTURE FEATS @ Fox Theater Oakland - 2.11.19

     -interviewed by Nicholas Shutes

I had the incredible honor of interviewing the LA act known as Future Feats and see them on a very trying first night of a huge tour with The Kooks. From the back of a packed crowd, the leader singer Josh looked like a mix of Bono and Bradley Cooper, and completely owned the stage with his band and their choreographed dance moves and excellent transitions. Here’s what Josh and I got to talk about after the show. 

You opened the show telling us you had a fever and were struggling with your voice all day. One hell of a show still. What’s been the worst thing to happen day of show?

It’s absolutely true! I completely lost my voice, and I was very much struggling to get any form of it back before the show started. I honestly believe that show in particular was the roughest start for us as a band up until now. I was sick, Ben cut his index finger open right before we went on and Zach was playing with a fractured hand. However, this was also the very first show of one of the biggest tours we’ve ever been on…and we weren’t going to let any of this get to us. The show must always go on, and we’ll always be a band to dig down deep, find something within, rise to the occasion and kick as much ass as humanly possible if a stage is ever presented to us. Also, thank you so much…so happy you enjoyed the show!

Future Feats is the result of a process starting in 2012. I want to commend you on your patience and congratulate you on after such a long time finally having the right fit of people. Was there ever a time you wanted to give up on the project and what motivated you to keep pushing forward?

Patience is practice. Practice doesn’t always make perfect, but I am happy to report that I’ve definitely found some proper footing for the time being. I’ve almost quit, given up, thrown in the towel, etc. etc. so many times that I’ve completely lost count. But you’re right, surrounding yourself with the right fit of people is honestly one of the biggest keys to unlocking any perceived sense of success.

My motivation has finally slowed to a steady breathing, and I feel completely free to create and be the artist and/or the person I’ve actually been this whole time. I’m obviously still very much motivated moving forward, but I suppose what I mean is that I’m just much more relaxed or in tune with the process now. 

I write songs, I play live, repeat. I’m in the groove, and it feels really amazing.

Future Feats’ debut single was Cities in Wonder and for about two years the only video for it was a lyric video. You mentioned you guys have a music video for it coming soon. How fun and surreal was that? Did you have a lot of say in the concept of the music video?

Yes, we released “Cities In Wonder” some time ago. It was the right track to lead with back then, and believe it or not, it’s still the right track to lead with in 2019. It still has legs. It’s still finding fresh ears and new faces every night we play it. The video was so much fun to shoot. We worked with mega-talented collaborators, Mr. Orie McGinness and Mr. Dana Willax. We essentially just took some cameras and ran around the streets of DTLA right after sunset. I stood dangerously on the tops of buildings and ran through some oncoming traffic, Pat climbed up in a tree, Z was hanging from the awning of a parking garage at one point. We had a blast, and I can’t wait for it to premiere sometime soon. 

Something I’ve noticed on artwork and merch is a unique 6 digit code. Is that simply a date-coded reference or something else? 

Great eye! Yes, those are secret codes that unlock specific parts of my brain. I refer to them as presets, and they’re essentially bracketed dates that correspond to events from my past. And seeing as how every song on the album is inspired by an event from my real life...these dates must hold some sort of special significance. I wonder what that could possibly mean though? Hmm. 

Are all the songs performed ones we can expect on an album? 

Yes. 

You closed with “27”. Its a birthday song but it made me think of the 27 Club where a lot of artists have died when they were 27. Have you heard of that and if so could we say this song is a celebration of reaching that milestone and surviving? 

It’s not a birthday song. It’s also not a nod to the 27 Club. Or is it? It’s also not at all a celebratory number. I’m pleading to a significant other about the fact that “I’m just trying to catch a break..” and “I swear I’ll make it up to you..”

It’s a song that means everything and nothing at all to me at this point. Because I’ve finally moved past that period of my life.

Back then, I was feeling desperate and was attempting to make it up to the people in my life that I felt I might’ve let down in the past by simply writing a song. But that was only the beginning of a much larger story. By not giving up on the one thing that gives my life great vibrations of purpose, I’m speaking of music, I feel that I’m now making things right for myself. And hopefully people will find something in the messaging of the song that they can ultimately connect to, even if it just serves the purpose of being considered a “birthday song” served with a slice of cake...I’m completely okay with that too.

What pre show rituals do you guys have?  

 We don’t really have any rituals. We’re all in our own headspace for the most part. Then we let all that energy loose onstage. Perhaps we should start some sort of chant or voltron-like high-five that connects the 5 of us into one giant mega super future feat. Let me get back to you on this. 

You guys have toured with various acts last year. Was there any pranks or running jokes that you guys played on each other or other bands that added more fun to the tour? 

I don’t believe there were any pranks per se…not yet anyway. There are two funny stories that come to mind though.  

It was the last day of tour with The Wombats. We were in Seattle, and we were all a bit lit backstage. Zach brought 2 bottles of champagne into the green room, and then had the brilliant idea of letting a couple of Wombats pop some bottles on our bare asses. Dan got Z, and Murph got me. I’m pretty sure there’s video footage of it archived somewhere.  

The other one comes from the first show with Matt & Kim in Chicago. We were playing a game of “Odds” w// Matt backstage. What are the odds you’ll eat this giant cookie? And he said 1 in 100. 1, 2, 3..76 !!! At the same time...it was pretty crazy, and I’m pretty sure he wasn’t that hungry...but he was a great sport about it. Matt & Kim are the absolute best.  

There are plenty of historic venues across the states. a lot of people consider The Fox Theater historic. You guys have also played at Rickshaw and Fillmore in SF which I consider historic. Can you speak to what it means to play at venues like that? Does it motive you even more to be the headliner at places like this or are you just basking in the moment?

I can’t really speak to what it honestly means. The only sentence that would keep coming out of my mouth would be that it has been an absolute dream come true, and I’ll never ever forget or take any of these experiences for granted. It absolutely motivates me to bring my own personal A game at all times. There’s no time available to bask. You bask onstage, then it’s time to move to the next city. But I feel if we keep pushing, we’ll absolutely be headlining places like this. It’s just going to take a lot more time. But I want this to last, and I’m not going anywhere any time soon. 

What’s a venue you’d love to play at? The Red Rocks in Colorado look absolutely gorgeous. 

It would be an honor to play Madison Square Garden one day.

Finally, I know you get asked this a lot so maybe I can be the one to finally break the news: when can we expect that LP? 

I don’t get asked this question nearly enough, and that’s honestly a damn shame. However, what I can tell you...is absolutely nothing. No album title or release dates to premiere at this time. It is a full-length LP, and it is on the way. You previously mentioned patience, so please just wait a few more minutes. Thank you so much for these questions, and for covering my band. We truly appreciate it. I am feeling better. We’re currently in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Yes, it’s a real place. And yes, I’m horrible about turning these interviews in on time because I really enjoy writing lengthy responses. I was told I’m getting paid a dollar a word for this, so I expect a check relatively soon.

Catch Future Feats on their remaining tour dates with The Kooks and Barns Courtney!  Connect with Future Feats: 

OFFICIAL WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | SPOTIFY | APPLE MUSIC

[straight-outta-the-asylum]

I tagged by @i-kneel-for-king-loki

1. Favorite Current Male Superstar?:

2. Favorite Superstar Of All time?: The honor has to go to CM Punk. He had a bug impact on my life when I was young and he’s influenced me to speak my mind and live a straight-edge life. So, I owe a lot to him.

3. Favorite Current Female Superstar?: This is like the male Superstars. But it’d have to be Becky, Naomi, Alexa, Charlotte, Dana Brooke, Natalya and Bayley. I love all of them.

4. Favorite Female Of All Time?: Beth Pheonix forever

5. Wrestlemania or Summerslam?: Wrestlemania, just because the grandeur of it all

Do You Have The WWE Network?:

I was tagged by @i-kneel-for-king-loki

1. Favorite Current Male Superstar? Ehhhhhhhhh, I love so many. I’d have to say that the first ones that come to mind are Dean Ambrose, Xavier Woods, AJ Styles, and Roman Reigns

2. Favorite Superstar Of All Time? The honor has to go to CM Punk. He had a big impact on my life when I was young and he’s influenced me to speak my mind and live a straight-edge life. So, I owe a lot to him.

3. Favorite Current Female Superstar? This is like the male Superstars. But it’d have to be Becky, Naomi, Alexa, Charlotte, Dana Brooke, Natalya, and Bayley. I love all of them.

4. Favorite Female Of All Time? Beth Pheonix forever.

5. Wrestlemania or Summerslam?  Wrestlemania, just because of the grandeur of it all.

6. Do You Have The WWE Network? Technically, my parents own it, lol.

7. Favorite Title Belt of All Time? The WWE Championship belt, like the little gold one that spins. My brother has a replica and we always play with it.

8. Favorite Current Belt? Smackdown Women’s Roster title belt

9. Least Favorite Superstar Of All Time? I don’t really hate any Superstars. Probably Brock Lesnar has the most of my rage.

10. Least Favorite Current Superstar? Baron Corbin, Brock Lesnar, and I don’t know why but there’s something about Shinsuke Nakamura that just irks me

11. Favorite Wrestlemania Moment? I have a lot, but I’d have to say it’s a pick between the Hardy’s returning this year or Shawn Michaels as ref in the Undertaker vs Triple H match.

12.  Favorite Era? New Era, definitely.

13. Favorite Match of The Year (so far)? 

14.  Favorite Piece of Merch You Own? 

15. Favorite Faction of All Time? The Shield, or the New Day. Straight Edge Society, too.

16. Do You Like The Current Main Title Holders? Fuck Brock Lesnar. I got respect for Randy though.

17. Do You Think That The Women Should Have More Titles? Tag team, for sure. I miss the Beth Pheonix + Natalya vs Laycool days.

18. Favorite Finisher? Dirty Deeds or the Spear

19. Favorite Stipulation? Ladder, probably. Or Hell In A Cell.

20. Favorite Pay-Per View?: Survivor Series

Bonus: Have You Me Any Superstars? If YES, who? No, I cry. My ma met Ric Flair before I was born, though, so we have his autograph and a pic. BUT Mick Foley is coming to a convention near us and I’m trying to get enough money to have a pic with him.

I tag: @p0tat0catofwesteros @caramara3 @hardcorewwetrash @geekoftv @idekwhatthisis @ambrose-asylum-ft-mitch and anyone else who wants to do it!

[rodneyevesuarywk]

9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories

Do you know what I like more than just about anything in the whole wide world?

Sleeping in on a Sunday and profitable social media; it’s right up there with running in the rain or drinking a cold beer after yard work.

Profitable social media is the stuff of life. It smells like freshly mowed grass and tastes like fine champagne (I guess I really like yard work, huh?)

Seeing profitable social means both the brand and the customers win. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

Before brands can achieve the sweet smell of social media profitability, they must first establish trust and gain the respect of audiences through organic social media.

In the last year, we’ve seen many brands crushing it on social media, especially with Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories create an interesting dynamic for brands because, from the outside, no one can numerically judge the success of their efforts—there is no view count or like count.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t clear all-stars when it comes to Instagram Stories.

Brands can’t make a profit without building the trust and respect of their audiences. Click To Tweet 1. Converse

Just about everyone in America knows Converse as a brand. They’re the original “gotta-have-it” sneaker. You weren’t cool unless you wore Chuck Taylors. But what you may have missed is just how hard Converse works to be “alternative”. Converse’s social team puts real effort into purposefully missing the mark on “cool” and falling into the whiskey tango foxtrot category.

Frankly, it’s a genius move. The more Converse pushes against “cool”, the more they earn the respect of young Generation Z. Sounds like Classic Converse to me.

Creative aside, marketers should take notice of their Instagram Story strategy. In announcing the rollout of a new shoe collaboration, Converse seamlessly connects their Instagram post content with their Instagram Story content.

Their Instagram feed and Instagram Story work in perfect harmony.

I’m all for obvious, somewhat repetitive social—wash, rinse, and repeat. If brands want their audience to know something, they should wrap exciting, memorable content around that something and repeat, repeat, repeat, just as Converse has done—so nicely “it will make you puke.”

2. National Geographic

Here, we see nature’s crafty photojournalists trying to domesticate the wild that is Instagram Stories. Join me, as we study their behaviors.

The photographs and storytelling found in National Geographic have been legendary almost since the magazine’s inception in 1888. Just as they do in print and across their digital properties, NatGeo has found innovative ways to share new ecological studies and award-winning imagery in the newest medium.

Through Instagram Stories, National Geographic educates and promotes conservation efforts being done by incredible people and organizations across the world. In this example, their Swipe Up call to action drives users to a National Geographic landing page where visitors can pledge to reduce plastic usage and share their pledge on social.

3. Twitter

Twitter shamelessly shares highlights from the channel on Instagram Stories. Swipe up, and users will land on Twitter. If they haven’t downloaded the app or created an account, they will be prompted to do so.

Twitter knows what Tweeters love to Tweet about. Their Instagram Stories are full of social causes, news, sports and celebrities. Each video prompts users to swipe up to learn more (swipe up to go to Twitter), where the “real” conversations are happening. When they post content of such engaging quality, who can fault Twitter for stealing a little Instagram love for themselves?

4. Minimalist Baker

People love food. (It’s true — I’m one of these people). Thanks to the sheer volume of food pics on the platform, Instagram is one of the best places to see and experience all the great things that food has to offer, especially new trends and easy to follow recipes. Minimalist Baker is one of the standout stars in this category.

Every day, founder and photographer Dana Shultz shares new plant-based recipes that are simple to make and even easier to eat. Minimalist Baker’s Stories are a blast to watch and learn from and always include the full recipe and ingredient list as a Swipe Up.  

But it’s the use of Instagram Stories Highlights that really helps them crush it. By keeping some of their most popular recipes and Stories stocked at the top of their profile, they enable new foodies to discover their take on plant-based cooking in a super approachable, step-by-step fashion.

  5. Nordstrom Rack

The managers of the Nordstrom Rack account went behind-the-scenes on their holiday shoot. While the models joyfully bounced around, teenage shoppers ran to their parents, begging for an advance on their monthly allowances.

Everyone knows Nordstrom stands for quality, but seeing the clothes in action takes them beyond #goals to #mustbemine. By the time the professional photos from this BTS shoot hit stores/catalogs (and the clothes hit the racks), shoppers will feel a kinship to the models, excitement for the new season and, most importantly, trust in the brand.

6. Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans love their merch, and the managers of the Game of Thrones Instagram account plan to take that fact straight to the bank.

The Game of Thrones audience, ruled by forever-nerds, will leap at any piece of merchandise that may raise them above the hoards of wine-drinkers-who-know-things. By sharing links to merchandise clearly made by small-fry superfans, the brand shows a ton of heart. This Instagram Story is another great example of a brand profiting from knowing and serving their audience. They even have the clever hashtag #reptherealm.

7. Buffer

When you’re trying to Netflix & Chill, buffering is the last thing you want. But you want to stay up to speed and on your toes as to what’s new and exciting in the world of social, Buffer’s blog is an outstanding resource.

Every Thursday, Buffer uses Instagram Story Polls to quiz their followers on their social media expertise, and they give out real prizes for each quiz!

These #BufferTriviaThursdays quizzes are a brilliant way to bring attention to new social topics Buffer’s audience needs to continue learning about. They’re a ton of fun to take and test your skillz (the “z” helps you know you’re cool!) — all while reinforcing Buffer’s breadth of company knowledge.

8. Crossfit

Crossfit is attempting to serve an international audience from one account, and that’s no easy feat (talk about a killer workout). Yes, a lot of brands do it, but Crossfit isn’t promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. Going international and covering all those lifestyles (which include a variety of cultures and traditions) is tough.

I won’t congratulate Crossfit on the quality of their photography/videography because, frankly, I think they can do better. However, I do commend the brand on staying so true to brand and utilizing their resources.

The brand used Instagram Live (later shared to their Instagram Story), user-generated content, and influencer marketing, all in one story, which is pretty incredible. Their Instagram content also covers their brand pillars of food, fitness, community, and jockish humor.

9. Taco Bell

Say you are dating a nice boy and want him to remember you no matter where he is. What do you do? Take a super cute selfie, and make it his phone’s background photo without his permission. Duh. Unforgettable.

That’s all Taco Bell is asking: to be unforgettable, by way of phone backgrounds everywhere.

This sort of engagement is pretty common. Many brands prompt users to capture the perfectly proportioned Instagram Story images to later use as extraordinary phone display images (and Snapchat Stories). With a phone background like this, friends of the Taco Bell fan will likely see a tenfold increase in instances of, “Want to go to Taco Bell?”

Thanks to Instagram Stories’ many features, from live video to links, there are many ways to engage your audience. As a marketer, you must continue to experiment and learn how to best leverage the features to help you achieve your social media objectives.

When brands really kill it on Instagram Stories, it’s a result of understanding and serving the needs and wants of their audiences, as with any other social platform.

What we’re seeing from winnings brands is how often they’re optimizing their already finely-tuned Instagram content to fit the new medium. Other times, they use the on-the-go temporary publisher to give the audience a look behind-the-scenes, straight into the soul of the brand.

As we’ve seen, there are a plethora of ways your brand can use Instagram Stories. If you are confident your team produces content that captivates, engages, and serves your audience, begin testing out that content on Instagram Stories. You’ll be happy you did.

The post 9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories appeared first on Convince and Convert: Social Media Consulting and Content Marketing Consulting.

https://ift.tt/2qgDsyo

[kraussoutene]

9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories

Do you know what I like more than just about anything in the whole wide world?

Sleeping in on a Sunday and profitable social media; it’s right up there with running in the rain or drinking a cold beer after yard work.

Profitable social media is the stuff of life. It smells like freshly mowed grass and tastes like fine champagne (I guess I really like yard work, huh?)

Seeing profitable social means both the brand and the customers win. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

Before brands can achieve the sweet smell of social media profitability, they must first establish trust and gain the respect of audiences through organic social media.

In the last year, we’ve seen many brands crushing it on social media, especially with Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories create an interesting dynamic for brands because, from the outside, no one can numerically judge the success of their efforts—there is no view count or like count.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t clear all-stars when it comes to Instagram Stories.

Brands can’t make a profit without building the trust and respect of their audiences. Click To Tweet 1. Converse

Just about everyone in America knows Converse as a brand. They’re the original “gotta-have-it” sneaker. You weren’t cool unless you wore Chuck Taylors. But what you may have missed is just how hard Converse works to be “alternative”. Converse’s social team puts real effort into purposefully missing the mark on “cool” and falling into the whiskey tango foxtrot category.

Frankly, it’s a genius move. The more Converse pushes against “cool”, the more they earn the respect of young Generation Z. Sounds like Classic Converse to me.

Creative aside, marketers should take notice of their Instagram Story strategy. In announcing the rollout of a new shoe collaboration, Converse seamlessly connects their Instagram post content with their Instagram Story content.

Their Instagram feed and Instagram Story work in perfect harmony.

I’m all for obvious, somewhat repetitive social—wash, rinse, and repeat. If brands want their audience to know something, they should wrap exciting, memorable content around that something and repeat, repeat, repeat, just as Converse has done—so nicely “it will make you puke.”

2. National Geographic

Here, we see nature’s crafty photojournalists trying to domesticate the wild that is Instagram Stories. Join me, as we study their behaviors.

The photographs and storytelling found in National Geographic have been legendary almost since the magazine’s inception in 1888. Just as they do in print and across their digital properties, NatGeo has found innovative ways to share new ecological studies and award-winning imagery in the newest medium.

Through Instagram Stories, National Geographic educates and promotes conservation efforts being done by incredible people and organizations across the world. In this example, their Swipe Up call to action drives users to a National Geographic landing page where visitors can pledge to reduce plastic usage and share their pledge on social.

3. Twitter

Twitter shamelessly shares highlights from the channel on Instagram Stories. Swipe up, and users will land on Twitter. If they haven’t downloaded the app or created an account, they will be prompted to do so.

Twitter knows what Tweeters love to Tweet about. Their Instagram Stories are full of social causes, news, sports and celebrities. Each video prompts users to swipe up to learn more (swipe up to go to Twitter), where the “real” conversations are happening. When they post content of such engaging quality, who can fault Twitter for stealing a little Instagram love for themselves?

4. Minimalist Baker

People love food. (It’s true — I’m one of these people). Thanks to the sheer volume of food pics on the platform, Instagram is one of the best places to see and experience all the great things that food has to offer, especially new trends and easy to follow recipes. Minimalist Baker is one of the standout stars in this category.

Every day, founder and photographer Dana Shultz shares new plant-based recipes that are simple to make and even easier to eat. Minimalist Baker’s Stories are a blast to watch and learn from and always include the full recipe and ingredient list as a Swipe Up.  

But it’s the use of Instagram Stories Highlights that really helps them crush it. By keeping some of their most popular recipes and Stories stocked at the top of their profile, they enable new foodies to discover their take on plant-based cooking in a super approachable, step-by-step fashion.

  5. Nordstrom Rack

The managers of the Nordstrom Rack account went behind-the-scenes on their holiday shoot. While the models joyfully bounced around, teenage shoppers ran to their parents, begging for an advance on their monthly allowances.

Everyone knows Nordstrom stands for quality, but seeing the clothes in action takes them beyond #goals to #mustbemine. By the time the professional photos from this BTS shoot hit stores/catalogs (and the clothes hit the racks), shoppers will feel a kinship to the models, excitement for the new season and, most importantly, trust in the brand.

6. Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans love their merch, and the managers of the Game of Thrones Instagram account plan to take that fact straight to the bank.

The Game of Thrones audience, ruled by forever-nerds, will leap at any piece of merchandise that may raise them above the hoards of wine-drinkers-who-know-things. By sharing links to merchandise clearly made by small-fry superfans, the brand shows a ton of heart. This Instagram Story is another great example of a brand profiting from knowing and serving their audience. They even have the clever hashtag #reptherealm.

7. Buffer

When you’re trying to Netflix & Chill, buffering is the last thing you want. But you want to stay up to speed and on your toes as to what’s new and exciting in the world of social, Buffer’s blog is an outstanding resource.

Every Thursday, Buffer uses Instagram Story Polls to quiz their followers on their social media expertise, and they give out real prizes for each quiz!

These #BufferTriviaThursdays quizzes are a brilliant way to bring attention to new social topics Buffer’s audience needs to continue learning about. They’re a ton of fun to take and test your skillz (the “z” helps you know you’re cool!) — all while reinforcing Buffer’s breadth of company knowledge.

8. Crossfit

Crossfit is attempting to serve an international audience from one account, and that’s no easy feat (talk about a killer workout). Yes, a lot of brands do it, but Crossfit isn’t promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. Going international and covering all those lifestyles (which include a variety of cultures and traditions) is tough.

I won’t congratulate Crossfit on the quality of their photography/videography because, frankly, I think they can do better. However, I do commend the brand on staying so true to brand and utilizing their resources.

The brand used Instagram Live (later shared to their Instagram Story), user-generated content, and influencer marketing, all in one story, which is pretty incredible. Their Instagram content also covers their brand pillars of food, fitness, community, and jockish humor.

9. Taco Bell

Say you are dating a nice boy and want him to remember you no matter where he is. What do you do? Take a super cute selfie, and make it his phone’s background photo without his permission. Duh. Unforgettable.

That’s all Taco Bell is asking: to be unforgettable, by way of phone backgrounds everywhere.

This sort of engagement is pretty common. Many brands prompt users to capture the perfectly proportioned Instagram Story images to later use as extraordinary phone display images (and Snapchat Stories). With a phone background like this, friends of the Taco Bell fan will likely see a tenfold increase in instances of, “Want to go to Taco Bell?”

Thanks to Instagram Stories’ many features, from live video to links, there are many ways to engage your audience. As a marketer, you must continue to experiment and learn how to best leverage the features to help you achieve your social media objectives.

When brands really kill it on Instagram Stories, it’s a result of understanding and serving the needs and wants of their audiences, as with any other social platform.

What we’re seeing from winnings brands is how often they’re optimizing their already finely-tuned Instagram content to fit the new medium. Other times, they use the on-the-go temporary publisher to give the audience a look behind-the-scenes, straight into the soul of the brand.

As we’ve seen, there are a plethora of ways your brand can use Instagram Stories. If you are confident your team produces content that captivates, engages, and serves your audience, begin testing out that content on Instagram Stories. You’ll be happy you did.

The post 9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories appeared first on Convince and Convert: Social Media Consulting and Content Marketing Consulting.

https://ift.tt/2qgDsyo

[mercedessharonwo1]

9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories

Do you know what I like more than just about anything in the whole wide world?

Sleeping in on a Sunday and profitable social media; it’s right up there with running in the rain or drinking a cold beer after yard work.

Profitable social media is the stuff of life. It smells like freshly mowed grass and tastes like fine champagne (I guess I really like yard work, huh?)

Seeing profitable social means both the brand and the customers win. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

Before brands can achieve the sweet smell of social media profitability, they must first establish trust and gain the respect of audiences through organic social media.

In the last year, we’ve seen many brands crushing it on social media, especially with Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories create an interesting dynamic for brands because, from the outside, no one can numerically judge the success of their efforts—there is no view count or like count.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t clear all-stars when it comes to Instagram Stories.

Brands can’t make a profit without building the trust and respect of their audiences. Click To Tweet 1. Converse

Just about everyone in America knows Converse as a brand. They’re the original “gotta-have-it” sneaker. You weren’t cool unless you wore Chuck Taylors. But what you may have missed is just how hard Converse works to be “alternative”. Converse’s social team puts real effort into purposefully missing the mark on “cool” and falling into the whiskey tango foxtrot category.

Frankly, it’s a genius move. The more Converse pushes against “cool”, the more they earn the respect of young Generation Z. Sounds like Classic Converse to me.

Creative aside, marketers should take notice of their Instagram Story strategy. In announcing the rollout of a new shoe collaboration, Converse seamlessly connects their Instagram post content with their Instagram Story content.

Their Instagram feed and Instagram Story work in perfect harmony.

I’m all for obvious, somewhat repetitive social—wash, rinse, and repeat. If brands want their audience to know something, they should wrap exciting, memorable content around that something and repeat, repeat, repeat, just as Converse has done—so nicely “it will make you puke.”

2. National Geographic

Here, we see nature’s crafty photojournalists trying to domesticate the wild that is Instagram Stories. Join me, as we study their behaviors.

The photographs and storytelling found in National Geographic have been legendary almost since the magazine’s inception in 1888. Just as they do in print and across their digital properties, NatGeo has found innovative ways to share new ecological studies and award-winning imagery in the newest medium.

Through Instagram Stories, National Geographic educates and promotes conservation efforts being done by incredible people and organizations across the world. In this example, their Swipe Up call to action drives users to a National Geographic landing page where visitors can pledge to reduce plastic usage and share their pledge on social.

3. Twitter

Twitter shamelessly shares highlights from the channel on Instagram Stories. Swipe up, and users will land on Twitter. If they haven’t downloaded the app or created an account, they will be prompted to do so.

Twitter knows what Tweeters love to Tweet about. Their Instagram Stories are full of social causes, news, sports and celebrities. Each video prompts users to swipe up to learn more (swipe up to go to Twitter), where the “real” conversations are happening. When they post content of such engaging quality, who can fault Twitter for stealing a little Instagram love for themselves?

4. Minimalist Baker

People love food. (It’s true — I’m one of these people). Thanks to the sheer volume of food pics on the platform, Instagram is one of the best places to see and experience all the great things that food has to offer, especially new trends and easy to follow recipes. Minimalist Baker is one of the standout stars in this category.

Every day, founder and photographer Dana Shultz shares new plant-based recipes that are simple to make and even easier to eat. Minimalist Baker’s Stories are a blast to watch and learn from and always include the full recipe and ingredient list as a Swipe Up.  

But it’s the use of Instagram Stories Highlights that really helps them crush it. By keeping some of their most popular recipes and Stories stocked at the top of their profile, they enable new foodies to discover their take on plant-based cooking in a super approachable, step-by-step fashion.

  5. Nordstrom Rack

The managers of the Nordstrom Rack account went behind-the-scenes on their holiday shoot. While the models joyfully bounced around, teenage shoppers ran to their parents, begging for an advance on their monthly allowances.

Everyone knows Nordstrom stands for quality, but seeing the clothes in action takes them beyond #goals to #mustbemine. By the time the professional photos from this BTS shoot hit stores/catalogs (and the clothes hit the racks), shoppers will feel a kinship to the models, excitement for the new season and, most importantly, trust in the brand.

6. Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans love their merch, and the managers of the Game of Thrones Instagram account plan to take that fact straight to the bank.

The Game of Thrones audience, ruled by forever-nerds, will leap at any piece of merchandise that may raise them above the hoards of wine-drinkers-who-know-things. By sharing links to merchandise clearly made by small-fry superfans, the brand shows a ton of heart. This Instagram Story is another great example of a brand profiting from knowing and serving their audience. They even have the clever hashtag #reptherealm.

7. Buffer

When you’re trying to Netflix & Chill, buffering is the last thing you want. But you want to stay up to speed and on your toes as to what’s new and exciting in the world of social, Buffer’s blog is an outstanding resource.

Every Thursday, Buffer uses Instagram Story Polls to quiz their followers on their social media expertise, and they give out real prizes for each quiz!

These #BufferTriviaThursdays quizzes are a brilliant way to bring attention to new social topics Buffer’s audience needs to continue learning about. They’re a ton of fun to take and test your skillz (the “z” helps you know you’re cool!) — all while reinforcing Buffer’s breadth of company knowledge.

8. Crossfit

Crossfit is attempting to serve an international audience from one account, and that’s no easy feat (talk about a killer workout). Yes, a lot of brands do it, but Crossfit isn’t promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. Going international and covering all those lifestyles (which include a variety of cultures and traditions) is tough.

I won’t congratulate Crossfit on the quality of their photography/videography because, frankly, I think they can do better. However, I do commend the brand on staying so true to brand and utilizing their resources.

The brand used Instagram Live (later shared to their Instagram Story), user-generated content, and influencer marketing, all in one story, which is pretty incredible. Their Instagram content also covers their brand pillars of food, fitness, community, and jockish humor.

9. Taco Bell

Say you are dating a nice boy and want him to remember you no matter where he is. What do you do? Take a super cute selfie, and make it his phone’s background photo without his permission. Duh. Unforgettable.

That’s all Taco Bell is asking: to be unforgettable, by way of phone backgrounds everywhere.

This sort of engagement is pretty common. Many brands prompt users to capture the perfectly proportioned Instagram Story images to later use as extraordinary phone display images (and Snapchat Stories). With a phone background like this, friends of the Taco Bell fan will likely see a tenfold increase in instances of, “Want to go to Taco Bell?”

Thanks to Instagram Stories’ many features, from live video to links, there are many ways to engage your audience. As a marketer, you must continue to experiment and learn how to best leverage the features to help you achieve your social media objectives.

When brands really kill it on Instagram Stories, it’s a result of understanding and serving the needs and wants of their audiences, as with any other social platform.

What we’re seeing from winnings brands is how often they’re optimizing their already finely-tuned Instagram content to fit the new medium. Other times, they use the on-the-go temporary publisher to give the audience a look behind-the-scenes, straight into the soul of the brand.

As we’ve seen, there are a plethora of ways your brand can use Instagram Stories. If you are confident your team produces content that captivates, engages, and serves your audience, begin testing out that content on Instagram Stories. You’ll be happy you did.

The post 9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories appeared first on Convince and Convert: Social Media Consulting and Content Marketing Consulting.

https://ift.tt/2qgDsyo

[fairchildlingpo1]

9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories

Do you know what I like more than just about anything in the whole wide world?

Sleeping in on a Sunday and profitable social media; it’s right up there with running in the rain or drinking a cold beer after yard work.

Profitable social media is the stuff of life. It smells like freshly mowed grass and tastes like fine champagne (I guess I really like yard work, huh?)

Seeing profitable social means both the brand and the customers win. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

Before brands can achieve the sweet smell of social media profitability, they must first establish trust and gain the respect of audiences through organic social media.

In the last year, we’ve seen many brands crushing it on social media, especially with Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories create an interesting dynamic for brands because, from the outside, no one can numerically judge the success of their efforts—there is no view count or like count.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t clear all-stars when it comes to Instagram Stories.

Brands can’t make a profit without building the trust and respect of their audiences. Click To Tweet 1. Converse

Just about everyone in America knows Converse as a brand. They’re the original “gotta-have-it” sneaker. You weren’t cool unless you wore Chuck Taylors. But what you may have missed is just how hard Converse works to be “alternative”. Converse’s social team puts real effort into purposefully missing the mark on “cool” and falling into the whiskey tango foxtrot category.

Frankly, it’s a genius move. The more Converse pushes against “cool”, the more they earn the respect of young Generation Z. Sounds like Classic Converse to me.

Creative aside, marketers should take notice of their Instagram Story strategy. In announcing the rollout of a new shoe collaboration, Converse seamlessly connects their Instagram post content with their Instagram Story content.

Their Instagram feed and Instagram Story work in perfect harmony.

I’m all for obvious, somewhat repetitive social—wash, rinse, and repeat. If brands want their audience to know something, they should wrap exciting, memorable content around that something and repeat, repeat, repeat, just as Converse has done—so nicely “it will make you puke.”

2. National Geographic

Here, we see nature’s crafty photojournalists trying to domesticate the wild that is Instagram Stories. Join me, as we study their behaviors.

The photographs and storytelling found in National Geographic have been legendary almost since the magazine’s inception in 1888. Just as they do in print and across their digital properties, NatGeo has found innovative ways to share new ecological studies and award-winning imagery in the newest medium.

Through Instagram Stories, National Geographic educates and promotes conservation efforts being done by incredible people and organizations across the world. In this example, their Swipe Up call to action drives users to a National Geographic landing page where visitors can pledge to reduce plastic usage and share their pledge on social.

3. Twitter

Twitter shamelessly shares highlights from the channel on Instagram Stories. Swipe up, and users will land on Twitter. If they haven’t downloaded the app or created an account, they will be prompted to do so.

Twitter knows what Tweeters love to Tweet about. Their Instagram Stories are full of social causes, news, sports and celebrities. Each video prompts users to swipe up to learn more (swipe up to go to Twitter), where the “real” conversations are happening. When they post content of such engaging quality, who can fault Twitter for stealing a little Instagram love for themselves?

4. Minimalist Baker

People love food. (It’s true — I’m one of these people). Thanks to the sheer volume of food pics on the platform, Instagram is one of the best places to see and experience all the great things that food has to offer, especially new trends and easy to follow recipes. Minimalist Baker is one of the standout stars in this category.

Every day, founder and photographer Dana Shultz shares new plant-based recipes that are simple to make and even easier to eat. Minimalist Baker’s Stories are a blast to watch and learn from and always include the full recipe and ingredient list as a Swipe Up.  

But it’s the use of Instagram Stories Highlights that really helps them crush it. By keeping some of their most popular recipes and Stories stocked at the top of their profile, they enable new foodies to discover their take on plant-based cooking in a super approachable, step-by-step fashion.

  5. Nordstrom Rack

The managers of the Nordstrom Rack account went behind-the-scenes on their holiday shoot. While the models joyfully bounced around, teenage shoppers ran to their parents, begging for an advance on their monthly allowances.

Everyone knows Nordstrom stands for quality, but seeing the clothes in action takes them beyond #goals to #mustbemine. By the time the professional photos from this BTS shoot hit stores/catalogs (and the clothes hit the racks), shoppers will feel a kinship to the models, excitement for the new season and, most importantly, trust in the brand.

6. Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans love their merch, and the managers of the Game of Thrones Instagram account plan to take that fact straight to the bank.

The Game of Thrones audience, ruled by forever-nerds, will leap at any piece of merchandise that may raise them above the hoards of wine-drinkers-who-know-things. By sharing links to merchandise clearly made by small-fry superfans, the brand shows a ton of heart. This Instagram Story is another great example of a brand profiting from knowing and serving their audience. They even have the clever hashtag #reptherealm.

7. Buffer

When you’re trying to Netflix & Chill, buffering is the last thing you want. But you want to stay up to speed and on your toes as to what’s new and exciting in the world of social, Buffer’s blog is an outstanding resource.

Every Thursday, Buffer uses Instagram Story Polls to quiz their followers on their social media expertise, and they give out real prizes for each quiz!

These #BufferTriviaThursdays quizzes are a brilliant way to bring attention to new social topics Buffer’s audience needs to continue learning about. They’re a ton of fun to take and test your skillz (the “z” helps you know you’re cool!) — all while reinforcing Buffer’s breadth of company knowledge.

8. Crossfit

Crossfit is attempting to serve an international audience from one account, and that’s no easy feat (talk about a killer workout). Yes, a lot of brands do it, but Crossfit isn’t promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. Going international and covering all those lifestyles (which include a variety of cultures and traditions) is tough.

I won’t congratulate Crossfit on the quality of their photography/videography because, frankly, I think they can do better. However, I do commend the brand on staying so true to brand and utilizing their resources.

The brand used Instagram Live (later shared to their Instagram Story), user-generated content, and influencer marketing, all in one story, which is pretty incredible. Their Instagram content also covers their brand pillars of food, fitness, community, and jockish humor.

9. Taco Bell

Say you are dating a nice boy and want him to remember you no matter where he is. What do you do? Take a super cute selfie, and make it his phone’s background photo without his permission. Duh. Unforgettable.

That’s all Taco Bell is asking: to be unforgettable, by way of phone backgrounds everywhere.

This sort of engagement is pretty common. Many brands prompt users to capture the perfectly proportioned Instagram Story images to later use as extraordinary phone display images (and Snapchat Stories). With a phone background like this, friends of the Taco Bell fan will likely see a tenfold increase in instances of, “Want to go to Taco Bell?”

Thanks to Instagram Stories’ many features, from live video to links, there are many ways to engage your audience. As a marketer, you must continue to experiment and learn how to best leverage the features to help you achieve your social media objectives.

When brands really kill it on Instagram Stories, it’s a result of understanding and serving the needs and wants of their audiences, as with any other social platform.

What we’re seeing from winnings brands is how often they’re optimizing their already finely-tuned Instagram content to fit the new medium. Other times, they use the on-the-go temporary publisher to give the audience a look behind-the-scenes, straight into the soul of the brand.

As we’ve seen, there are a plethora of ways your brand can use Instagram Stories. If you are confident your team produces content that captivates, engages, and serves your audience, begin testing out that content on Instagram Stories. You’ll be happy you did.

The post 9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories appeared first on Convince and Convert: Social Media Consulting and Content Marketing Consulting.

https://ift.tt/2qgDsyo

[dainiaolivahm]

9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories

Do you know what I like more than just about anything in the whole wide world?

Sleeping in on a Sunday and profitable social media; it’s right up there with running in the rain or drinking a cold beer after yard work.

Profitable social media is the stuff of life. It smells like freshly mowed grass and tastes like fine champagne (I guess I really like yard work, huh?)

Seeing profitable social means both the brand and the customers win. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

Before brands can achieve the sweet smell of social media profitability, they must first establish trust and gain the respect of audiences through organic social media.

In the last year, we’ve seen many brands crushing it on social media, especially with Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories create an interesting dynamic for brands because, from the outside, no one can numerically judge the success of their efforts—there is no view count or like count.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t clear all-stars when it comes to Instagram Stories.

Brands can’t make a profit without building the trust and respect of their audiences. Click To Tweet 1. Converse

Just about everyone in America knows Converse as a brand. They’re the original “gotta-have-it” sneaker. You weren’t cool unless you wore Chuck Taylors. But what you may have missed is just how hard Converse works to be “alternative”. Converse’s social team puts real effort into purposefully missing the mark on “cool” and falling into the whiskey tango foxtrot category.

Frankly, it’s a genius move. The more Converse pushes against “cool”, the more they earn the respect of young Generation Z. Sounds like Classic Converse to me.

Creative aside, marketers should take notice of their Instagram Story strategy. In announcing the rollout of a new shoe collaboration, Converse seamlessly connects their Instagram post content with their Instagram Story content.

Their Instagram feed and Instagram Story work in perfect harmony.

I’m all for obvious, somewhat repetitive social—wash, rinse, and repeat. If brands want their audience to know something, they should wrap exciting, memorable content around that something and repeat, repeat, repeat, just as Converse has done—so nicely “it will make you puke.”

2. National Geographic

Here, we see nature’s crafty photojournalists trying to domesticate the wild that is Instagram Stories. Join me, as we study their behaviors.

The photographs and storytelling found in National Geographic have been legendary almost since the magazine’s inception in 1888. Just as they do in print and across their digital properties, NatGeo has found innovative ways to share new ecological studies and award-winning imagery in the newest medium.

Through Instagram Stories, National Geographic educates and promotes conservation efforts being done by incredible people and organizations across the world. In this example, their Swipe Up call to action drives users to a National Geographic landing page where visitors can pledge to reduce plastic usage and share their pledge on social.

3. Twitter

Twitter shamelessly shares highlights from the channel on Instagram Stories. Swipe up, and users will land on Twitter. If they haven’t downloaded the app or created an account, they will be prompted to do so.

Twitter knows what Tweeters love to Tweet about. Their Instagram Stories are full of social causes, news, sports and celebrities. Each video prompts users to swipe up to learn more (swipe up to go to Twitter), where the “real” conversations are happening. When they post content of such engaging quality, who can fault Twitter for stealing a little Instagram love for themselves?

4. Minimalist Baker

People love food. (It’s true — I’m one of these people). Thanks to the sheer volume of food pics on the platform, Instagram is one of the best places to see and experience all the great things that food has to offer, especially new trends and easy to follow recipes. Minimalist Baker is one of the standout stars in this category.

Every day, founder and photographer Dana Shultz shares new plant-based recipes that are simple to make and even easier to eat. Minimalist Baker’s Stories are a blast to watch and learn from and always include the full recipe and ingredient list as a Swipe Up.  

But it’s the use of Instagram Stories Highlights that really helps them crush it. By keeping some of their most popular recipes and Stories stocked at the top of their profile, they enable new foodies to discover their take on plant-based cooking in a super approachable, step-by-step fashion.

  5. Nordstrom Rack

The managers of the Nordstrom Rack account went behind-the-scenes on their holiday shoot. While the models joyfully bounced around, teenage shoppers ran to their parents, begging for an advance on their monthly allowances.

Everyone knows Nordstrom stands for quality, but seeing the clothes in action takes them beyond #goals to #mustbemine. By the time the professional photos from this BTS shoot hit stores/catalogs (and the clothes hit the racks), shoppers will feel a kinship to the models, excitement for the new season and, most importantly, trust in the brand.

6. Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans love their merch, and the managers of the Game of Thrones Instagram account plan to take that fact straight to the bank.

The Game of Thrones audience, ruled by forever-nerds, will leap at any piece of merchandise that may raise them above the hoards of wine-drinkers-who-know-things. By sharing links to merchandise clearly made by small-fry superfans, the brand shows a ton of heart. This Instagram Story is another great example of a brand profiting from knowing and serving their audience. They even have the clever hashtag #reptherealm.

7. Buffer

When you’re trying to Netflix & Chill, buffering is the last thing you want. But you want to stay up to speed and on your toes as to what’s new and exciting in the world of social, Buffer’s blog is an outstanding resource.

Every Thursday, Buffer uses Instagram Story Polls to quiz their followers on their social media expertise, and they give out real prizes for each quiz!

These #BufferTriviaThursdays quizzes are a brilliant way to bring attention to new social topics Buffer’s audience needs to continue learning about. They’re a ton of fun to take and test your skillz (the “z” helps you know you’re cool!) — all while reinforcing Buffer’s breadth of company knowledge.

8. Crossfit

Crossfit is attempting to serve an international audience from one account, and that’s no easy feat (talk about a killer workout). Yes, a lot of brands do it, but Crossfit isn’t promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. Going international and covering all those lifestyles (which include a variety of cultures and traditions) is tough.

I won’t congratulate Crossfit on the quality of their photography/videography because, frankly, I think they can do better. However, I do commend the brand on staying so true to brand and utilizing their resources.

The brand used Instagram Live (later shared to their Instagram Story), user-generated content, and influencer marketing, all in one story, which is pretty incredible. Their Instagram content also covers their brand pillars of food, fitness, community, and jockish humor.

9. Taco Bell

Say you are dating a nice boy and want him to remember you no matter where he is. What do you do? Take a super cute selfie, and make it his phone’s background photo without his permission. Duh. Unforgettable.

That’s all Taco Bell is asking: to be unforgettable, by way of phone backgrounds everywhere.

This sort of engagement is pretty common. Many brands prompt users to capture the perfectly proportioned Instagram Story images to later use as extraordinary phone display images (and Snapchat Stories). With a phone background like this, friends of the Taco Bell fan will likely see a tenfold increase in instances of, “Want to go to Taco Bell?”

Thanks to Instagram Stories’ many features, from live video to links, there are many ways to engage your audience. As a marketer, you must continue to experiment and learn how to best leverage the features to help you achieve your social media objectives.

When brands really kill it on Instagram Stories, it’s a result of understanding and serving the needs and wants of their audiences, as with any other social platform.

What we’re seeing from winnings brands is how often they’re optimizing their already finely-tuned Instagram content to fit the new medium. Other times, they use the on-the-go temporary publisher to give the audience a look behind-the-scenes, straight into the soul of the brand.

As we’ve seen, there are a plethora of ways your brand can use Instagram Stories. If you are confident your team produces content that captivates, engages, and serves your audience, begin testing out that content on Instagram Stories. You’ll be happy you did.

The post 9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories appeared first on Convince and Convert: Social Media Consulting and Content Marketing Consulting.

https://ift.tt/2qgDsyo

[byronheeutgm]

9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories

Do you know what I like more than just about anything in the whole wide world?

Sleeping in on a Sunday and profitable social media; it’s right up there with running in the rain or drinking a cold beer after yard work.

Profitable social media is the stuff of life. It smells like freshly mowed grass and tastes like fine champagne (I guess I really like yard work, huh?)

Seeing profitable social means both the brand and the customers win. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

Before brands can achieve the sweet smell of social media profitability, they must first establish trust and gain the respect of audiences through organic social media.

In the last year, we’ve seen many brands crushing it on social media, especially with Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories create an interesting dynamic for brands because, from the outside, no one can numerically judge the success of their efforts—there is no view count or like count.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t clear all-stars when it comes to Instagram Stories.

Brands can’t make a profit without building the trust and respect of their audiences. Click To Tweet 1. Converse

Just about everyone in America knows Converse as a brand. They’re the original “gotta-have-it” sneaker. You weren’t cool unless you wore Chuck Taylors. But what you may have missed is just how hard Converse works to be “alternative”. Converse’s social team puts real effort into purposefully missing the mark on “cool” and falling into the whiskey tango foxtrot category.

Frankly, it’s a genius move. The more Converse pushes against “cool”, the more they earn the respect of young Generation Z. Sounds like Classic Converse to me.

Creative aside, marketers should take notice of their Instagram Story strategy. In announcing the rollout of a new shoe collaboration, Converse seamlessly connects their Instagram post content with their Instagram Story content.

Their Instagram feed and Instagram Story work in perfect harmony.

I’m all for obvious, somewhat repetitive social—wash, rinse, and repeat. If brands want their audience to know something, they should wrap exciting, memorable content around that something and repeat, repeat, repeat, just as Converse has done—so nicely “it will make you puke.”

2. National Geographic

Here, we see nature’s crafty photojournalists trying to domesticate the wild that is Instagram Stories. Join me, as we study their behaviors.

The photographs and storytelling found in National Geographic have been legendary almost since the magazine’s inception in 1888. Just as they do in print and across their digital properties, NatGeo has found innovative ways to share new ecological studies and award-winning imagery in the newest medium.

Through Instagram Stories, National Geographic educates and promotes conservation efforts being done by incredible people and organizations across the world. In this example, their Swipe Up call to action drives users to a National Geographic landing page where visitors can pledge to reduce plastic usage and share their pledge on social.

3. Twitter

Twitter shamelessly shares highlights from the channel on Instagram Stories. Swipe up, and users will land on Twitter. If they haven’t downloaded the app or created an account, they will be prompted to do so.

Twitter knows what Tweeters love to Tweet about. Their Instagram Stories are full of social causes, news, sports and celebrities. Each video prompts users to swipe up to learn more (swipe up to go to Twitter), where the “real” conversations are happening. When they post content of such engaging quality, who can fault Twitter for stealing a little Instagram love for themselves?

4. Minimalist Baker

People love food. (It’s true — I’m one of these people). Thanks to the sheer volume of food pics on the platform, Instagram is one of the best places to see and experience all the great things that food has to offer, especially new trends and easy to follow recipes. Minimalist Baker is one of the standout stars in this category.

Every day, founder and photographer Dana Shultz shares new plant-based recipes that are simple to make and even easier to eat. Minimalist Baker’s Stories are a blast to watch and learn from and always include the full recipe and ingredient list as a Swipe Up.  

But it’s the use of Instagram Stories Highlights that really helps them crush it. By keeping some of their most popular recipes and Stories stocked at the top of their profile, they enable new foodies to discover their take on plant-based cooking in a super approachable, step-by-step fashion.

  5. Nordstrom Rack

The managers of the Nordstrom Rack account went behind-the-scenes on their holiday shoot. While the models joyfully bounced around, teenage shoppers ran to their parents, begging for an advance on their monthly allowances.

Everyone knows Nordstrom stands for quality, but seeing the clothes in action takes them beyond #goals to #mustbemine. By the time the professional photos from this BTS shoot hit stores/catalogs (and the clothes hit the racks), shoppers will feel a kinship to the models, excitement for the new season and, most importantly, trust in the brand.

6. Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans love their merch, and the managers of the Game of Thrones Instagram account plan to take that fact straight to the bank.

The Game of Thrones audience, ruled by forever-nerds, will leap at any piece of merchandise that may raise them above the hoards of wine-drinkers-who-know-things. By sharing links to merchandise clearly made by small-fry superfans, the brand shows a ton of heart. This Instagram Story is another great example of a brand profiting from knowing and serving their audience. They even have the clever hashtag #reptherealm.

7. Buffer

When you’re trying to Netflix & Chill, buffering is the last thing you want. But you want to stay up to speed and on your toes as to what’s new and exciting in the world of social, Buffer’s blog is an outstanding resource.

Every Thursday, Buffer uses Instagram Story Polls to quiz their followers on their social media expertise, and they give out real prizes for each quiz!

These #BufferTriviaThursdays quizzes are a brilliant way to bring attention to new social topics Buffer’s audience needs to continue learning about. They’re a ton of fun to take and test your skillz (the “z” helps you know you’re cool!) — all while reinforcing Buffer’s breadth of company knowledge.

8. Crossfit

Crossfit is attempting to serve an international audience from one account, and that’s no easy feat (talk about a killer workout). Yes, a lot of brands do it, but Crossfit isn’t promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. Going international and covering all those lifestyles (which include a variety of cultures and traditions) is tough.

I won’t congratulate Crossfit on the quality of their photography/videography because, frankly, I think they can do better. However, I do commend the brand on staying so true to brand and utilizing their resources.

The brand used Instagram Live (later shared to their Instagram Story), user-generated content, and influencer marketing, all in one story, which is pretty incredible. Their Instagram content also covers their brand pillars of food, fitness, community, and jockish humor.

9. Taco Bell

Say you are dating a nice boy and want him to remember you no matter where he is. What do you do? Take a super cute selfie, and make it his phone’s background photo without his permission. Duh. Unforgettable.

That’s all Taco Bell is asking: to be unforgettable, by way of phone backgrounds everywhere.

This sort of engagement is pretty common. Many brands prompt users to capture the perfectly proportioned Instagram Story images to later use as extraordinary phone display images (and Snapchat Stories). With a phone background like this, friends of the Taco Bell fan will likely see a tenfold increase in instances of, “Want to go to Taco Bell?”

Thanks to Instagram Stories’ many features, from live video to links, there are many ways to engage your audience. As a marketer, you must continue to experiment and learn how to best leverage the features to help you achieve your social media objectives.

When brands really kill it on Instagram Stories, it’s a result of understanding and serving the needs and wants of their audiences, as with any other social platform.

What we’re seeing from winnings brands is how often they’re optimizing their already finely-tuned Instagram content to fit the new medium. Other times, they use the on-the-go temporary publisher to give the audience a look behind-the-scenes, straight into the soul of the brand.

As we’ve seen, there are a plethora of ways your brand can use Instagram Stories. If you are confident your team produces content that captivates, engages, and serves your audience, begin testing out that content on Instagram Stories. You’ll be happy you did.

The post 9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories appeared first on Convince and Convert: Social Media Consulting and Content Marketing Consulting.

https://ift.tt/2qgDsyo

[christinesumpmg]

9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories

Do you know what I like more than just about anything in the whole wide world?

Sleeping in on a Sunday and profitable social media; it’s right up there with running in the rain or drinking a cold beer after yard work.

Profitable social media is the stuff of life. It smells like freshly mowed grass and tastes like fine champagne (I guess I really like yard work, huh?)

Seeing profitable social means both the brand and the customers win. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

Before brands can achieve the sweet smell of social media profitability, they must first establish trust and gain the respect of audiences through organic social media.

In the last year, we’ve seen many brands crushing it on social media, especially with Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories create an interesting dynamic for brands because, from the outside, no one can numerically judge the success of their efforts—there is no view count or like count.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t clear all-stars when it comes to Instagram Stories.

Brands can’t make a profit without building the trust and respect of their audiences. Click To Tweet 1. Converse

Just about everyone in America knows Converse as a brand. They’re the original “gotta-have-it” sneaker. You weren’t cool unless you wore Chuck Taylors. But what you may have missed is just how hard Converse works to be “alternative”. Converse’s social team puts real effort into purposefully missing the mark on “cool” and falling into the whiskey tango foxtrot category.

Frankly, it’s a genius move. The more Converse pushes against “cool”, the more they earn the respect of young Generation Z. Sounds like Classic Converse to me.

Creative aside, marketers should take notice of their Instagram Story strategy. In announcing the rollout of a new shoe collaboration, Converse seamlessly connects their Instagram post content with their Instagram Story content.

Their Instagram feed and Instagram Story work in perfect harmony.

I’m all for obvious, somewhat repetitive social—wash, rinse, and repeat. If brands want their audience to know something, they should wrap exciting, memorable content around that something and repeat, repeat, repeat, just as Converse has done—so nicely “it will make you puke.”

2. National Geographic

Here, we see nature’s crafty photojournalists trying to domesticate the wild that is Instagram Stories. Join me, as we study their behaviors.

The photographs and storytelling found in National Geographic have been legendary almost since the magazine’s inception in 1888. Just as they do in print and across their digital properties, NatGeo has found innovative ways to share new ecological studies and award-winning imagery in the newest medium.

Through Instagram Stories, National Geographic educates and promotes conservation efforts being done by incredible people and organizations across the world. In this example, their Swipe Up call to action drives users to a National Geographic landing page where visitors can pledge to reduce plastic usage and share their pledge on social.

3. Twitter

Twitter shamelessly shares highlights from the channel on Instagram Stories. Swipe up, and users will land on Twitter. If they haven’t downloaded the app or created an account, they will be prompted to do so.

Twitter knows what Tweeters love to Tweet about. Their Instagram Stories are full of social causes, news, sports and celebrities. Each video prompts users to swipe up to learn more (swipe up to go to Twitter), where the “real” conversations are happening. When they post content of such engaging quality, who can fault Twitter for stealing a little Instagram love for themselves?

4. Minimalist Baker

People love food. (It’s true — I’m one of these people). Thanks to the sheer volume of food pics on the platform, Instagram is one of the best places to see and experience all the great things that food has to offer, especially new trends and easy to follow recipes. Minimalist Baker is one of the standout stars in this category.

Every day, founder and photographer Dana Shultz shares new plant-based recipes that are simple to make and even easier to eat. Minimalist Baker’s Stories are a blast to watch and learn from and always include the full recipe and ingredient list as a Swipe Up.  

But it’s the use of Instagram Stories Highlights that really helps them crush it. By keeping some of their most popular recipes and Stories stocked at the top of their profile, they enable new foodies to discover their take on plant-based cooking in a super approachable, step-by-step fashion.

  5. Nordstrom Rack

The managers of the Nordstrom Rack account went behind-the-scenes on their holiday shoot. While the models joyfully bounced around, teenage shoppers ran to their parents, begging for an advance on their monthly allowances.

Everyone knows Nordstrom stands for quality, but seeing the clothes in action takes them beyond #goals to #mustbemine. By the time the professional photos from this BTS shoot hit stores/catalogs (and the clothes hit the racks), shoppers will feel a kinship to the models, excitement for the new season and, most importantly, trust in the brand.

6. Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans love their merch, and the managers of the Game of Thrones Instagram account plan to take that fact straight to the bank.

The Game of Thrones audience, ruled by forever-nerds, will leap at any piece of merchandise that may raise them above the hoards of wine-drinkers-who-know-things. By sharing links to merchandise clearly made by small-fry superfans, the brand shows a ton of heart. This Instagram Story is another great example of a brand profiting from knowing and serving their audience. They even have the clever hashtag #reptherealm.

7. Buffer

When you’re trying to Netflix & Chill, buffering is the last thing you want. But you want to stay up to speed and on your toes as to what’s new and exciting in the world of social, Buffer’s blog is an outstanding resource.

Every Thursday, Buffer uses Instagram Story Polls to quiz their followers on their social media expertise, and they give out real prizes for each quiz!

These #BufferTriviaThursdays quizzes are a brilliant way to bring attention to new social topics Buffer’s audience needs to continue learning about. They’re a ton of fun to take and test your skillz (the “z” helps you know you’re cool!) — all while reinforcing Buffer’s breadth of company knowledge.

8. Crossfit

Crossfit is attempting to serve an international audience from one account, and that’s no easy feat (talk about a killer workout). Yes, a lot of brands do it, but Crossfit isn’t promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. Going international and covering all those lifestyles (which include a variety of cultures and traditions) is tough.

I won’t congratulate Crossfit on the quality of their photography/videography because, frankly, I think they can do better. However, I do commend the brand on staying so true to brand and utilizing their resources.

The brand used Instagram Live (later shared to their Instagram Story), user-generated content, and influencer marketing, all in one story, which is pretty incredible. Their Instagram content also covers their brand pillars of food, fitness, community, and jockish humor.

9. Taco Bell

Say you are dating a nice boy and want him to remember you no matter where he is. What do you do? Take a super cute selfie, and make it his phone’s background photo without his permission. Duh. Unforgettable.

That’s all Taco Bell is asking: to be unforgettable, by way of phone backgrounds everywhere.

This sort of engagement is pretty common. Many brands prompt users to capture the perfectly proportioned Instagram Story images to later use as extraordinary phone display images (and Snapchat Stories). With a phone background like this, friends of the Taco Bell fan will likely see a tenfold increase in instances of, “Want to go to Taco Bell?”

Thanks to Instagram Stories’ many features, from live video to links, there are many ways to engage your audience. As a marketer, you must continue to experiment and learn how to best leverage the features to help you achieve your social media objectives.

When brands really kill it on Instagram Stories, it’s a result of understanding and serving the needs and wants of their audiences, as with any other social platform.

What we’re seeing from winnings brands is how often they’re optimizing their already finely-tuned Instagram content to fit the new medium. Other times, they use the on-the-go temporary publisher to give the audience a look behind-the-scenes, straight into the soul of the brand.

As we’ve seen, there are a plethora of ways your brand can use Instagram Stories. If you are confident your team produces content that captivates, engages, and serves your audience, begin testing out that content on Instagram Stories. You’ll be happy you did.

The post 9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories appeared first on Convince and Convert: Social Media Consulting and Content Marketing Consulting.

https://ift.tt/2qgDsyo

[maryhare96]

9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories

Do you know what I like more than just about anything in the whole wide world?

Sleeping in on a Sunday and profitable social media; it’s right up there with running in the rain or drinking a cold beer after yard work.

Profitable social media is the stuff of life. It smells like freshly mowed grass and tastes like fine champagne (I guess I really like yard work, huh?)

Seeing profitable social means both the brand and the customers win. Who doesn’t love a win-win?

Before brands can achieve the sweet smell of social media profitability, they must first establish trust and gain the respect of audiences through organic social media.

In the last year, we’ve seen many brands crushing it on social media, especially with Instagram Stories. Instagram Stories create an interesting dynamic for brands because, from the outside, no one can numerically judge the success of their efforts—there is no view count or like count.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t clear all-stars when it comes to Instagram Stories.

Brands can’t make a profit without building the trust and respect of their audiences. Click To Tweet 1. Converse

Just about everyone in America knows Converse as a brand. They’re the original “gotta-have-it” sneaker. You weren’t cool unless you wore Chuck Taylors. But what you may have missed is just how hard Converse works to be “alternative”. Converse’s social team puts real effort into purposefully missing the mark on “cool” and falling into the whiskey tango foxtrot category.

Frankly, it’s a genius move. The more Converse pushes against “cool”, the more they earn the respect of young Generation Z. Sounds like Classic Converse to me.

Creative aside, marketers should take notice of their Instagram Story strategy. In announcing the rollout of a new shoe collaboration, Converse seamlessly connects their Instagram post content with their Instagram Story content.

Their Instagram feed and Instagram Story work in perfect harmony.

I’m all for obvious, somewhat repetitive social—wash, rinse, and repeat. If brands want their audience to know something, they should wrap exciting, memorable content around that something and repeat, repeat, repeat, just as Converse has done—so nicely “it will make you puke.”

2. National Geographic

Here, we see nature’s crafty photojournalists trying to domesticate the wild that is Instagram Stories. Join me, as we study their behaviors.

The photographs and storytelling found in National Geographic have been legendary almost since the magazine’s inception in 1888. Just as they do in print and across their digital properties, NatGeo has found innovative ways to share new ecological studies and award-winning imagery in the newest medium.

Through Instagram Stories, National Geographic educates and promotes conservation efforts being done by incredible people and organizations across the world. In this example, their Swipe Up call to action drives users to a National Geographic landing page where visitors can pledge to reduce plastic usage and share their pledge on social.

3. Twitter

Twitter shamelessly shares highlights from the channel on Instagram Stories. Swipe up, and users will land on Twitter. If they haven’t downloaded the app or created an account, they will be prompted to do so.

Twitter knows what Tweeters love to Tweet about. Their Instagram Stories are full of social causes, news, sports and celebrities. Each video prompts users to swipe up to learn more (swipe up to go to Twitter), where the “real” conversations are happening. When they post content of such engaging quality, who can fault Twitter for stealing a little Instagram love for themselves?

4. Minimalist Baker

People love food. (It’s true — I’m one of these people). Thanks to the sheer volume of food pics on the platform, Instagram is one of the best places to see and experience all the great things that food has to offer, especially new trends and easy to follow recipes. Minimalist Baker is one of the standout stars in this category.

Every day, founder and photographer Dana Shultz shares new plant-based recipes that are simple to make and even easier to eat. Minimalist Baker’s Stories are a blast to watch and learn from and always include the full recipe and ingredient list as a Swipe Up.  

But it’s the use of Instagram Stories Highlights that really helps them crush it. By keeping some of their most popular recipes and Stories stocked at the top of their profile, they enable new foodies to discover their take on plant-based cooking in a super approachable, step-by-step fashion.

  5. Nordstrom Rack

The managers of the Nordstrom Rack account went behind-the-scenes on their holiday shoot. While the models joyfully bounced around, teenage shoppers ran to their parents, begging for an advance on their monthly allowances.

Everyone knows Nordstrom stands for quality, but seeing the clothes in action takes them beyond #goals to #mustbemine. By the time the professional photos from this BTS shoot hit stores/catalogs (and the clothes hit the racks), shoppers will feel a kinship to the models, excitement for the new season and, most importantly, trust in the brand.

6. Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones fans love their merch, and the managers of the Game of Thrones Instagram account plan to take that fact straight to the bank.

The Game of Thrones audience, ruled by forever-nerds, will leap at any piece of merchandise that may raise them above the hoards of wine-drinkers-who-know-things. By sharing links to merchandise clearly made by small-fry superfans, the brand shows a ton of heart. This Instagram Story is another great example of a brand profiting from knowing and serving their audience. They even have the clever hashtag #reptherealm.

7. Buffer

When you’re trying to Netflix & Chill, buffering is the last thing you want. But you want to stay up to speed and on your toes as to what’s new and exciting in the world of social, Buffer’s blog is an outstanding resource.

Every Thursday, Buffer uses Instagram Story Polls to quiz their followers on their social media expertise, and they give out real prizes for each quiz!

These #BufferTriviaThursdays quizzes are a brilliant way to bring attention to new social topics Buffer’s audience needs to continue learning about. They’re a ton of fun to take and test your skillz (the “z” helps you know you’re cool!) — all while reinforcing Buffer’s breadth of company knowledge.

8. Crossfit

Crossfit is attempting to serve an international audience from one account, and that’s no easy feat (talk about a killer workout). Yes, a lot of brands do it, but Crossfit isn’t promoting a product; they are promoting a lifestyle. Going international and covering all those lifestyles (which include a variety of cultures and traditions) is tough.

I won’t congratulate Crossfit on the quality of their photography/videography because, frankly, I think they can do better. However, I do commend the brand on staying so true to brand and utilizing their resources.

The brand used Instagram Live (later shared to their Instagram Story), user-generated content, and influencer marketing, all in one story, which is pretty incredible. Their Instagram content also covers their brand pillars of food, fitness, community, and jockish humor.

9. Taco Bell

Say you are dating a nice boy and want him to remember you no matter where he is. What do you do? Take a super cute selfie, and make it his phone’s background photo without his permission. Duh. Unforgettable.

That’s all Taco Bell is asking: to be unforgettable, by way of phone backgrounds everywhere.

This sort of engagement is pretty common. Many brands prompt users to capture the perfectly proportioned Instagram Story images to later use as extraordinary phone display images (and Snapchat Stories). With a phone background like this, friends of the Taco Bell fan will likely see a tenfold increase in instances of, “Want to go to Taco Bell?”

Thanks to Instagram Stories’ many features, from live video to links, there are many ways to engage your audience. As a marketer, you must continue to experiment and learn how to best leverage the features to help you achieve your social media objectives.

When brands really kill it on Instagram Stories, it’s a result of understanding and serving the needs and wants of their audiences, as with any other social platform.

What we’re seeing from winnings brands is how often they’re optimizing their already finely-tuned Instagram content to fit the new medium. Other times, they use the on-the-go temporary publisher to give the audience a look behind-the-scenes, straight into the soul of the brand.

As we’ve seen, there are a plethora of ways your brand can use Instagram Stories. If you are confident your team produces content that captivates, engages, and serves your audience, begin testing out that content on Instagram Stories. You’ll be happy you did.

The post 9 Brands Crushing It with Instagram Stories appeared first on Convince and Convert: Social Media Consulting and Content Marketing Consulting.

https://ift.tt/2qgDsyo