Social Networking Sites

I have a problem. I like rap music and I also like opera. I like other types of music, but for the sake of argument, let’s just say that I like rap and opera music. Now if I go to a social networking site (SNS) that concentrates in music, I will come across many playlists of rap music. But within that same SNS, I will come across very few of opera. If I go to a different SNS, the opposite may occur with opera being in the majority.

If I want to talk to other users about rap, I will need to stay within the first SNS, and the second site to discuss the beauty of opera. But what if I want to talk (chat) with people about both styles? What if I want to talk to people who appreciate each style of music equally?

My guess (and it’s likely already occurring) is that the next phase of web expansion will be in the connection of different sites tailored to the individual. I don’t know what that will look like, but I think in the very near future, I will be able to chat with people who have the same eclectic tastes which no amazon ‘you may also like’ list would ever be able to peg.

Perhaps this is a small part of what will be referred to as Web 3.0. Eric Schmidt, CEO of Google, speaks of Web 3.0 as follows: “my prediction will be that Web 3.0 will ultimately be seen as applications which are pieced together.”

The implications for music distribution are enormous. I may trust someone from a rap SNS to recommend a song to me. But I guarantee you I would trust someone more who recommended a song who also listened to opera, liked to travel internationally, and enjoyed literature more than American Idol.

Stay tuned,
Erik
erikrostad.com