Exclusive Interview with Michael Matthews Founder of DIGITAL RADIO TRACKER
Introduce yourself to everyone.
My name is Michael Matthews and I am the founder of DigitalRadioTracker.com Inc. DigitalRadioTracker also known as DRT is a leading global internet radio monitoring company that tracks radio airplay of songs played on over 5000+ radio stations around the globe. These stations (major to independent) are comprised of an array of FM Terrestrial, Satellite, and College as well as thousands of digital streaming radio stations.
For those who don't know, tell us what your company does that is essential to the music industry.
DigitalRadioTracker.com Inc. has customized a technology that monitors radio airplay detections of songs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. The system's unique database logs every song that is played on all radio stations that DRT monitors. A timestamp of the date, time, and which version of the song is being played is recorded by DRT's system. This data is compiled in our database and DRT Reports and Charts are generated. We have created a music database for everyone to use FREE of charge!
Photo Credit: Curtis Matthews
What sets you apart from other companies offering similar services?
We like to say, "DRT is a competition to no one, but value for everyone!" We are in a space of our own. Other U.S. based monitoring companies predominately monitor the top 200 metro market Terrestrial FM stations in the U.S. However, DRT's focus is on monitoring global digital streaming radio stations.
We all monitor some of the same radio stations in the U.S., but DRT also monitors radio stations worldwide. We produce global airplay charts whereas they produce charts based on U.S. data only. DRT prides itself on being added value to the music industry. DigitalRadioTracker is the only company in the world to provide a FREE artist/song/broadcaster searchable database of over forty-five million song titles without any obligation to purchase. This has been an invaluable resource tool for independent artists. Other monitoring companies charge to access their database.
Most tracking companies seem to offer only 1 report of their findings, but I saw that you offer more than that! What are the different types of reports you provide to clients?
DRT offers 5 types of reports: A DRT Report provides information about a song that received airplay on a specific station. It displays the exact time of day/night a song is played and most importantly, the number of times its played. DRT also offers historical eight-week reports which list the history of airplay detections during the previous eight-weeks on all our monitored stations.
In addition, DRT provides comprehensive reports which outline the exact time of day/night a song is played on each of our monitored stations as well as any remix versions. Since the conception of music monitoring, no other company has provided this type of specialty information.
Other broadcast monitoring companies usually merge all the information into one report making it impossible to determine which version of the song was played. Broadcast Raw Data Summary Logs and Broadcaster Comprehensive Reports are also available for anyone wanting to know the playlist data for a specific radio station.
Who can benefit from using your services?
DRT is utilized by artists, publicists, managers, promoters, radio station programmers, DJs, music industry executives, and more! It has also been used by college students doing research on songs trending.
The global airplay data that DRT collects is very useful to artists and record labels because they can use the information to book shows and tours, set-up interviews, sell merchandise or promote their songs to other radio stations to secure more airplay.
Artists and record labels can also use the airplay information to assist in collecting royalties on their music and further build their fan base. Or they can use the data to develop promotional strategies and learn which markets to further promote as well as monetize their brand.
Tell us about the DRT Plaque program, what is the most exciting part of that for you?
The most exciting part about DRT's plaques has been the reactions from artists and record labels when they receive their plaques. We receive many emails and videos from artists expressing how much they appreciate them. For many of these artists, it is their very first accolade, so it brings a sense of affirmation into the music industry to them and we are delighted to be a part of their accomplishment.
Our DRT Certified Plaques are some of the highest quality in the music industry. They are made using 100% Italian solid wood frame, superior quality printing on plexiglass, and 3D raised inserts. DRT is the only company in the music industry to use Augmented Reality technology in our plaques. This feature allows you to scan your plaque with your phone or tablet and it will play the artist's music video!
It is an awesome conversation piece and we are excited that they can display their success and enjoy a lifetime of memories with their DRT Certified Plaque!
What are your long-term goals for the company?
As technology continues to expand with devices such as Amazon Echo and Google Home, DRT plans on monitoring more digital streaming stations on these devices. Internet Radio is being installed in millions of cars today and DRT will focus on monitoring more of these streaming stations. DRT's goal is to be the first broadcast monitoring company to track specialty shows such as DJ mix-shows, ministries, talk shows, and more!
What would you say to an artist or record label that is still trying to pursue music as an independent?
The best advice I could give to anyone looking to pursue music is, stay true to your artistic craft. Focus on building your brand by any means necessary. Do not allow anyone to tell you that you will not be successful because this or that is lacking. And most importantly do not let the politics of this industry interfere with your success. An incredibly wise person once told me, "When you don't know what to do, do what you know to do!"
Lastly, how can people contact DigitalRadioTracker?
We encourage everyone to sign-up for a FREE DRT Account on our website www.DigitalRadioTracker.com The best point of contact is by email [email protected] or via social media on Instagram/Facebook @DigitalRadioTracker and Twitter @DRTRadioTracker.
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