Laughing all the way to the bank?

It’s been a busy time lately. I’ve been working on a feature for the next issue of 4Talent magazine, about online comedy and drama – that’s taken up a lot of my time but been a fascinating article to write (more on that nearer the time of publication).

I’ve also been “inspiring” the next cohort of students from the Media Enterprise MA, attempting to pass on my words of wisdom. I’m currently trying to work up some ideas for my dissertation or MA project, and I’ll post here with details once I start to work on the project for real.

The next step is the development of a new project addressing the comedy scene in Birmingham, in conjunction with Rich Batsford, and more on that soon when things are underway – I’m particularly excited about this project and hope that all goes according to plan.

So what makes you laugh? And what do you look for in live comedy? I’m eager to hear!

Hello…is it me you’re looking for?

Before I start, let me promise to never quote Lionel Richie again. Thanks to my involvement on the Media Enterprise MA I’ve been getting a bit of publicity on the Birmingham City University website, and their press release about the evolution of Cul-de-Sac has been picked up by the Birmingham Post too.

So, there are exciting times ahead. While a few things are ironed out and the big plans are looked over with a fine-toothed comb once more, let me point you in the direction of this plea for help. Cul-de-Sac needs your help to make a real difference – if you’re going to a gig in the West Midlands, we want your reviews and your photos. We’re trying to start a conversation so your input is vital.

To quote a certain Mr Baker, “Keep watching the skies…”

When a good time turns around, you must Wippit…

The Guardian’s digital content blog is reporting that the music store Wippit has closed down. It made its name selling DRM-free music long before the major labels caught on, although I only began to use their site when Danny Baker’s All Day Breakfast Show podcast was sold exclusively through it. When that series of podcasts ground to a halt, many were quick to blame Wippit (read the Candyman’s side of the story, and former Wippit head honcho Paul Myers expresses his take here), but it’s quite a shock to learn that it has ceased to exist.

So where are you downloading your music from? And do you think we’ll start to see other online music stores shutting up shop too, unable to compete with the muscle of the market leaders? I’d like to know what you think.