Today we had an exclusive chance to interview Michael Matthews, the founder of DigitalRadioTracker:
Raptology: Thank you so much for being part of our interview series. We are excited to have joined forces in this unique opportunity for artists. Can you give us a little introduction to DigitalRadioTracker?
MM: 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 which 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.
Raptology: What is unique about how your platform helps artists and record labels?
MM: DRT is the only broadcast monitoring company in the world that does not require any special encoding or fingerprinting. We also provide a FREE artist/song/broadcaster searchable database to our users which contains over 45 million song titles. This has been an invaluable resource tool for independent artists. Other monitoring companies charge to access their database. 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.
Raptology: Are there similar products already existing? If yes, how different is your approach?
MM: We like to say, “DRT is competition to no one, but value for everyone!” We are in a space of our own. Other monitoring sources predominately monitor the top 200 metro market Terrestrial FM stations in the U.S. DRT’s focus is 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. If an artist/record label really want to understand what their song is doing at radio and have a complete picture of the airplay story, they will want to look at all broadcast monitoring reports.
Raptology: Who are some of your most successful artists you have worked with? I have been in the music industry for 28 years. During that time, I have worked in the role of a manager, publisher and radio promoter. Through these roles I have had the privilege to work with successful artists like Silk, Scarface and the Geto Boys, Roy Jones Jr., Gucci Mane, Warren G, Lil Donald, Smooth B, Cash Out and countless others!
Raptology: What advice can you give to emerging artists who are trying to break into the music business?
MM: The best advice I could give 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 you do not have this or that. And most importantly do not let the politics of this industry interfere with your success.
Raptology: What effects have social media and streaming services had on music sharing and consumption?
MM: I feel social media and streaming services has greatly impacted the way music is consumed. Many new artists are being discovered on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. A lot of new songs are no long being introduced to the world through traditional FM stations they are being leaked on social media. Streaming services have created an on-demand atmosphere where consumers can create their own playlist and listen to songs that they prefer. This has greatly affected the music industry and how music is marketed today.
Raptology: Do you work nationally or internationally?
MM: DRT is a global broadcast monitoring company. Although we are based in the United States, we monitor thousands of radio stations in more than 125 countries around the world.
Raptology: Have you ever turned down a client?
MM: Not with DRT. Anyone is free to use our service to track their music. With my marketing company, we turned down several clients in the past due to their song not being up to industry standard or we felt that the client’s expectation exceeded what we could provide. So, in those cases we had to turn them down.
Raptology: What are the key company milestones for the next 6-12 months that need to be achieved?
MM: We are in the process of celebrating our 10th year anniversary. We will be launching a new website along with a huge PR campaign during the first quarter of 2021. Our objective is to create another level of awareness about DRT and educate artists and labels about the benefits of DRT and how it can be used to further their brands. We will be upgrading DRT’s technology as we improve our station tracking and report efficiency. In addition, DRT will be adding a lot more radio stations to its reporting panel in 2021.
Raptology: Thanks for being part of our interview series! Anything else you would like to add?
MM: DRT recently launched a plaque division for artists. To qualify, an artist must have a single charted on any of the official DRT Charts for a minimum of one week. This can be at any chart position from 2014 to present. 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! We are excited that artists can have an accolade to display their success and enjoy a lifetime of memories with a DRT Certified Plaque!
To register for a FREE DRT Account, access the link http://www.digitalradiotracker.com/drt-dev/register.php and check out the following resources for more information and updates:
Website: http://www.DigitalRadioTracker.com
General Inquiries: info@digitalradiotracker.com
Natalia is a Rap and Hip Hop enthusiast. After graduating from The New School of New York’s Public Relations Program and taking a course in Journalism at Michigan State University, she decided to dedicate her life to the music publishing business and to the discovery of new talent. She helps new artists gain exposure to the masses via online marketing and publications.
