Its not much of a secret to those who know me that I have two favorite musical groups (Radiohead & Coldplay). So, when one of the two was on CBS’s 60 Minutes, it was a can’t miss for me. While I was clearly most interested in the “behind the scenes” aspect of Coldplay, what most intrigued me was how well organized and directed they are as an organization. One of the greatest indications of this (beyond how clearly they can articulate their identity) was a collection of ten rules/standards by which they govern their operations, identity, and creativity (see video below).
1. Albums be no longer than 42 minutes, 9 tracks.
2. Production must be amazing, but with space, not overlayered, less tracks, more quality, groove and swing. Drums/rhythm are the most crucial thing to concentrate on; diff. between bittersweet and science of silence. [A reference to The Verve and Richard Ashcroft solo]
3. Computers are instruments, not recording aids.
4. Imagery must be classic, colourful and different. Come back in glorious technicolor.
5. Make sure videos and pictures are great before setting release date. And highly original.
6. Always keep mystery. Not many interviews.
7. Groove and swing. Rhythms and sounds must always be as original as possible. Once jon has melody twist it and weird it sonical.
8. Promo/review copies to be on VINYL. Stops copying problem, sounds and looks better. [Ed. Note: My Viva La Vida promo was in CD format]
9. Jacqueline sabriado, ns p c c, face forward.
10. Think about what you do with charity account. Set up something small but really enabling and constructive. Ref j oliver fifteen [a reference to Jamie Oliver's Fifteen Restaurant]
What do these rules mean for you?
Quite simply, these rules have been major components to one of the world’s most successful musical and entertainment entity. And as such, your business or organization needs to find the standards that it needs to strive for and maintain. Your organization is as unique as you are and it should reflect your values, interests, and long term goals.
We live in a world that now more than ever allows us to be more particular, unique and nimble. Through these things we can forge an identity based on not only or core competencies but also our interests and values.
If you own a record store but really want to make a difference in that industry by doing business a particular way, write it down. Let your entire team in on that standard and through it you will be different, stand out, and start to achieve that impact.
If you produce, sell, or distribute a particular product- ask yourself why you are related to this product it and how you want it and your company to be perceived. Seek to maintain a presentation that is reflective of what you believe in and literally define what it is that you need in order to present that product in a proper manner and to grow its presentation down the road.
If there is anything that I know about goals it’s that they need to be specific, measurable and written down. Coldplay does a great job of exemplifying this and their success is a great reflection of their goals.
