So a couple of weeks ago I got invited to join a group called Rage Against The Machine for Christmas No.1 - a group started by a couple of RATM fans bored of the X Factor domination of the Christmas charts - something I have to admit I agree with - suggesting that people should buy 'Killing In The Name' by Rage Against The Machine in an attempt to make that Xmas No.1 instead. So I join the group and get set to buy my copy a little later on.

Click here to view the Rage Against The Machine For number 1. Facebook group

Now the group is massive, and there are debates all over the place about the RATM vs. XF battle.

Well I’ve downloaded my copy, and here’s why:

1. I really don’t like the XF song
2. I really do like RATM

They’re the main reasons – and I think they’re damn good – but to get a little more in depth, try these:

1. It’s not about the XF winner – if they’re a good musician they will survive the shame of first release being a mere top 5 charter...
   ... and hopefully after this first release they can get an input on which songs they produce and pick one that a) is their own choice, and b) is better than this (my personal opinion)!
2. This is Simon Cowell’s cash cow – I think he’s milked enough money during the XF already without all the excess from record sales and the royalties following any no. 1. It’s also a well overdue kick-up the backside for the smug idiot’s ego.
3. It’s a reminder that other music is out there, that it’s not XF or nothing... I know that this point is a bit hypocritical, and that if you really wanted to prove freedom of choice in the music industry then everyone should by any track that they like (inc. the XF release...).
   But the XF domination doesn’t allow for this (see point below) and as XF is a mass market, you need a mass reaction to get noticed – hence everyone buying RATM. Why Killing In The Name? Well listen to the lyrics – it’s the epitome of anti–corporate power songs, and it’s just a really good track!
4. It’s a look in for other recording artists. So many artists stop from releasing singles around the Xmas period – contesting against such a giant corporate machine like XF means that they just won’t get any airplay. (In fact this commercial/corporate side of the industry means that many independent labels don’t release singles at any time)
5. It’s made Xmas more exciting – if before all you had to look forward to was shower gel and new socks, you’ve now got a bit of a chart battle as well!

So that’s why I’ve brought my copy (and also donated a bit of money to Shelter so they’re not losing out!), and if you agree with any of the points above – or are part of the campaign for any other reasons – then log onto a legal download site and prove it!

Jen

PS. After the event I may well blog about why this was an amazing viral marketing campaign, so look out for that!