The Big Business of Fake Fans

Amy Silverstein's story about musicians striving for online success got readers talking last week (“Gaming YouTube“). Writes Johnny Killmore, “Interesting topic, seemingly researched with more than Google, and not written in a college-humor style. Not too shabby. Worth the read. Thanks.”

Adds Tigercide, “There is a very strong temptation to buy fans. There is such a massive surplus of 'bands' today that many artists do whatever they can to try to cut through the BS. But buying fans can definitely backfire, as the story proves. At some point, a 'real fan' validation app will appear, and this type of nonsense will cease. The best way to cut through is to make better music, and hope you meet the 'right people.' ”

A New Guard in Silver Lake

Also generating buzz: Patrick Range McDonald's take on Silver Lake (“Silver Lake Generation War,” Sept. 27). Writes Landsnark, “L.A. Weekly has done a decent job of capturing the culture clash that exists in Silver Lake. It's really about an older, suburban mentality that's fearful of change vs. a younger, urban sensibility. Result: The Silver Lake Neighborhood Council has become a glorified homeowners association, dedicated to preserving the privilege of those on the inside, with all the dysfunction and petty politics anyone who's lived through a condo HOA will recognize.“

Kevin in L.A. writes, “In general, the Occupy L.A. types have good intentions but don't understand what it takes to build a safe and strong community. Part of the reason that young people are attracted to Silver Lake is the gentrification that happened since the 1990s. It seems disingenuous to say, 'I like the gentrification that brought Intelligentsia, but that's enough — I don't want any more change and I certainly don't want sheep mowing the grass around the reservoir.' “

David Oliver adds, “I have to comment on Tacy Padua's statement about the obese children in Silver Lake choosing McDonald's as their favorite restaurant. Ms. Padua may not realize this but the Silver Lake McDonald's also has an indoor play area. In many urban areas, McDonald's is the safe and secure place for families to bring their children, obese or not. While they come to play and interact with other children, as a side benefit they also are burning off calories. Food for thought, perhaps.”

Corrections

Our Best of L.A. Issue contained three errors: The best public radio station you're not listening to (but should be) is housed at Cal State Northridge. Beachwood BBQ is at 210 E. Third Street, Long Beach, while Grand Park is at 200 N. Grand Ave. downtown. Also, contrary to our recent coverage, the director of Ah, Wilderness! is Thom Babbes and the composer of Crescent City is Anne LeBaron, while Robert Oriol was the sound designer for Pericles, Prince of Tyre at A Noise Within; the design was not “uncredited.” We regret all the above.

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