Amazon Amp was announced today via a blog post. I learned more about the platform via this TechCrunch article.
The blog provided by Amazon stated, “ it [the app] will enable creators to DJ their own shows for free, with tens of millions of licensed songs.”
While the app is still in beta, as a long-time marketing professional my brain was already buzzing with ideas surrounding the platform. So I secured an Access Code and tested out the platform. (DM me on IG (@ coffeefueled) if you would like an Access Code as well)
Here are my initial thoughts:
- The idea of being able to curate and host a live radio show is new, fresh, and unique. It combines all the elements we love about podcasts and platforms like Clubhouse or Twitter Spaces.
- Right now, there is a huge potential for creators and influencers to get in early and begin building a fan base early on like in the early days of Clubhouse or TikTok.
- One critique I have with the platform is that you must use the licensed library provided by Amazon. It’s not that I think any music should be allowed because there can be licensing issues, but making this more musician-friendly may entice more musicians onto the platform to promote their music.
- The user interface is beautiful and easy to use, it’s still a bit clunky and not extremely intuitive in all areas, but I give it a solid A-.
So, in the role of an influencer, how should one go about strategizing their use of this platform? Here’s what I would do (to start):
- Develop an outline for a show, determine what day and time it will be most successful, have a set number of songs or length of the show (ex. 1 hour)
- Think about potential ad spots within my show, what brands would I be open to promoting live on the radio?
- Pick something I relate to or already enjoy.
- Brainstorm engagement strategies, how can I get callers involved? Examples: Taking song recommendations, asking trivia questions, starting debates on important topics, doing on-air giveaways… “caller number 5 you’ve just won a trip to the moon with Mlon Eusk!” You get the point, just get people talking with you and interested in coming back.
Here are some screenshots of the in-app experience:
