Music Blog

Good observations on music marketing in the check-out line where Ashlee Simpson is first, natch.

You are probably familiar with the retail strategy of putting tempting items in or near the checkout line. Crowded around the register are always magazines, gum, refreshments, candy, or whatever else a smart person decides will be likely to break down your willpower. So as I checked out of Best Buy with some gifts for my family last night, I noticed there were albums in the line and thus enjoyed some insight into what people want to hear (or at least what store owners think they will be most likely to open their wallets for). What albums does a clever stock clerk decide are the most apt to tantalize the aural palette? First there was Ashlee Simpson (fair enough, she’s certainly got some catchy tracks), then Santana (haven’t heard much about this latest effort, but I hear it’s a dry imitation of Supernatural. Still a fair choice for something a fan might decide to add to the cart). Finally, prominently displayed, was Mr. Scott Stapp.