The British Phonographic Industry (BPI) reported that 1 in 10 albums sold in the US in 2008 were recorded by Brits. The number in Canada is even higher at 15%.

“Britain’s creative industries consistently excel on the world stage with British music chief amongst them,” said BPI chairman Tony Wadsworth.

“After the US, we are the biggest exporter of repertoire and, in the US itself, the UK is the second largest source of repertoire after US home grown artists.

“The increase in our North American market share reflects the UK’s enduring ability to create world class artists.

This is not mere puffery by an organization with an unfortunate name (that really ought to think about a name change). Phonographic! Please, way too close to another “P” word for comfort. But seriously folks…as I gaze at the Momo collection of CDs in front of me the UK influence can’t not be denied. My number may be even higher. No, I am not going to go over to the CDs and work the numbers. You don’t care and I am too lazy!

The point here is that I have been heavily influenced by the many waves of the British invasion Beatles, Stones, Led Zepellin, Cure, Stereolab…I LOVE them all. We Yanks are drawn to the UK and as I gather from my friends over there the feeling is mutual. They are attracted to the American accent too. No really. The music that influenced bands like the Beatles early on for instance had American roots in Rhythm & Blues. I remember the Rolling Stones being described as an R&B band. Look at their early stuff and see.

As I continue to search for new music to share with the Shh-momo mob, I will probe any and all sources. One stop along the way will have to include a stop at UK sites dedicated to new music across the pond.

Tony Momo - A common language in the arts!

View tonymomo's Profile      Subscribe via RSS