Koopa set to be first unsigned band to break UK charts
We mentioned last month that 2007 could see major changes in the UK charts, with unsigned bands having an opportunity to make their mark. And it is proving, with one unsigned band set to make it into the top 40 this weekend.
That band is Koopa, with the single Blag Steal & Borrow, currently at 33 in mid-week charts. It’s all down to downloads. The band has exploited all digital means to get the attention and sales. 97 per cent of sales were via 7digital.com or the band’s indiestore online store, with additional sales generated from SMS pre-orders.
According to Ben Drury, MD of 7digital: “This is an example of a band playing the digital game really well. Koopa have made their single available as widely as possible, have mobilised their fanbase by pointing MySpace visitors to their 7digital stores and have stimulated pre-release interest with pre-orders. Based on sales so far Koopa will definitely enter the top 75, whether they make the top 40 on Sunday will depend on the promotional work that they can do over the next few days.
“The new rules have made the charts more of a level playing field for all artists, removing the costs associated with getting a physical single recorded, pressed and distributed. Any band with a healthy fanbase now has a crack at the charts.”
