so this blog series is inspired by my own online experiences and usage, but also that of other sistas that I see working it and utilizing it to their benefit. Fiona Bloom begin_of_the_skype_highlighting end_of_the_skype_highlighting is one of those people. I watch this woman’s movements and the way she has embraced technology and social networking and uses it to promote The Bloom Effect, and I knew I had to get her perspective on what it means to be “Just A Girl..in this digital world”.
Fiona Bloom has over 15+ years in the entertainment/music industry and in 2007 launched The Bloom Effect, a unique one stop that specializes in branding for artists, labels, and lifestyle companies. specializing in launch parties, international music events, live shows, album publicity, digital marketing, A&R consulting, and promotion, The Bloom Effect has produced over 1000 shows, consulted on 200+ album projects and has been a part of over 300 artists’ careers.
with clients like The Lyricist Lounge, Tommy Boy, Spectre Music, MIDEM, StonesThrow Recordings, Mixtape Riot, Game, Simon and Schuster, Nelson George, Wayna, Roxy Cottontail and so many more. The Bloom Effect has always prided itself in having its fingers on the pulse and always being ahead of the curve and so I figured Fiona Bloom is definitely one of those who’s perspective interested me.
me: to start off, how much time would you say you spend online?
Fiona Bloom: I am online 24/7. If it’s not being on the computer, I’m with my blackberry at all times and it’s wi-fi connected even when I sleep. I mean – I do other things during the day like write press releases, make calls, maintain databases but tweetdeck pops up, I am doing emails in between and searching for music or video on the web so it’s constant!
me: what is your abso fave application for your own personal use? and for your artists?
Fiona Bloom: I just downloaded Shazam thanks to Keith Shocklee (Bombsquad) who hipped me to it a while back. Nothing like being somewhere- hearing a song you love and putting your phone up to the speaker and it recognizes it- song recognition- amazing innovation. Fave apps for my artists- damn I’d say any Iphone apps that help improve their art or make their marketing efforts easier.
me: and what site would you say would be a necessity for artists? (i.e. myspace, reverbnation..)
Fiona Bloom: As far as a necessity for artists— Reverbnation http://www.reverbnation.com is super important. Bandcamp http://www.bandcamp.com is great for putting your music up instantly and the fans can then share with their friends.
I still think Myspace is a good place to have your profile and music up if you don’t have your own site but at end of day- you should own your own blogsite and artists should be in the habit of live blogging, archiving their day to day experiences, touring and studio time.
YouTube – http://www.youtube.com every artist should have their own channel and shoot viral episodes/digital media at least 3-5 times a week if not everyday.
me: what do you see as the evolution of social networking?
Fiona Bloom: Social Networking is moving very fast- it’s all becoming Real Time Media and NOW. So we have to be quick on our toes as the next platform, social apps and technology is around the corner so if we sneeze or blink we’ll get lost. I believe that Mobile Social is just starting to evolve and pretty soon we won’t need our desktops or laptops and everything we’ll need is in our phone. All the apps, music, video, delivery, subscription, retail, anything imaginable will be in one place and mobile on the go which is where we’re headed.
me: do you think it is possible to spend too much time networking online?
Fiona Bloom: I absolutely feel like you can get overloaded, addicted to an app or network and be on it too much where it’s counterproductive or very wasteful. I have to catch myself sometimes because I am on Facebook or Twitter a little too much where I could be searching for new tools, research information, secure more press which is always a great thing and or go outside smell the roses- catch some fresh air-breathe- talk to people in Real Life not Real Time!
me: how do feel The Bloom Effect has benefited from the use of the interweb, 
?
Fiona Bloom: I feel that The Bloom Effect has benefited from the Interweb as it’s been much easier doing business overseas- I’ve looked after several acts from Israel, UK, France, S.Africa, Holland and through the web it’s made things simpler in terms of not having to ship physical cd’s- sending secure links, communication via skype/email is free and efficient and I’ve actually been able to develop a growing reputation in those Countries without having to be back and forth. I find most my artists from the internet whether on Myspace, Twitter, Ilike, Soundcloud, etc; Also online promotion and marketing has really helped the façade and perception- people from all over the world think The Bloom Effect is this big agency when in reality it’s just a one woman operation with dreams to expand- I want offices in Tel Aviv and Shanghai – that’s my 2 year plan!
so there you have it folks! the word from a fan and avid user of technology, an industry maven making sure these tools are being used to the fullest ability. always with her eyes open for the newest and latest, make sure you keep your eye on her!
also, if you’re in NY, def come through tomorrow after noon and support Women in Hip Hop:
so, til next week, hope you all have a blessed one!
