Adding bite to podcasting's bark

A group of podcasters is trying to show the power of new media and make a statement on iTunes by organizing a buying spree.

The plan calls for podcasters and supporters on Thursday to purchase via iTunes the song "Mine Again" by the band Black Lab. According to the organizing blog, the idea is to prove that "podcasting is more than just a delivery mechanism--it's a social movement." The project is also taking aim at the music industry; the band has twice been dropped by a major record label.

All of the affiliate money earned through the sales and a portion of the bands' proceeds are being donated to charity.

"Nothing would prove the power of new media more than showing corporate media that not only can we exceed their reach and match their purchasing power, but that we can also do it AND make a positive difference in the world. If we can succeed with this small example, then there's no telling what can do next," the blog states.

Blog community response:

"And we're always down to aid the underdog, but we leave this one to you: Cleverly subversive? Or band marketing ploy?"
--Stereogum

"Between this and Gizmodo's call for a boycott of RIAA music in the month of March, it makes me wonder: when do we get to start smashing and burning things?"
--Jonathan Coulton

"If we get the number of people to do this that we hope we will it'll push an indie band to the top of the iTunes charts. This is a good test to see if the community we hope is out there can step up and take action when needed."
--93 Colors