Where the power of social media and fans make a difference in the music industry.
When Luca Sacchetti walked away from the music industry years ago, he left a lengthy trail of hope and devastation in his wake—three albums, constant touring, roller coaster of emotions. The experience wasn’t all for naught though, as he’s re-entered the business from a different angle; one that will change the way musicians and fans interact through social media.
Over the past decade, established social media sites made it easy to declare one’s love for a rock band or rapper, through Myspace friend lists and Facebook “Likes,” but the interaction usually stops there. Sacchetti’s RockStar Motel hopes to break down that barrier, bringing fans and musicians closer than ever before.
“Social media is about participation and transparency and this is where RockStar Motel trumps every other site,” Sacchetti says. “RockStar Motel democratizes the industry by inviting the fans in, giving them a voice and a platform to actually make a difference in the industry. Through this, artists get to know their fans in ways never before possible.”
With that mentality, RockStar Motel doesn’t just stop at artist exposure. Adoring fans (“reps” as they’re referred to on the site) can reap some personal benefits as well. For example, rap group Cali Swag District has already offered to take its top rep to Six Flags for a day. The more you promote, the greater the chance of being recognized.
“RockStar Motel identifies the tastemakers in every genre, and in every city,” Sacchetti adds. “We give the artists the tools to identify and connect with those fans who are not only likely to dig their music, but who are also highly influential. These fans get the exposure and recognition they deserve.”
The site launched in October 2011 in a limited-use beta test format, then went full bore in December. The last five months have been spent tweaking the user interface and adding bells and whistles. The official site launched his past May 2012, but positive feedback has been rolling in for months, including support from industry types, whom Sacchetti admits he thought would be the most resistant to his business model.
“During beta, we received a groundswell of support from industry moguls in Seattle, New York and Los Angeles. We’ve also received a lot of support from artists from many different backgrounds and genres. RockStar Motel has created a digital platform that will elevate the music business for everyone.”
