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Every month hundreds of new albums are released – several of those being from new or relatively unknown groups. Most groups are promoted by a lot of hyper. It seems that every new group is the next Beatles, Rolling Stones or whoever. And then for some reason they usually fall short of their proclamations.
The hype from the record companies includes such statements as, “The hottest new group in the U.S.” or “The future of rock.” I remember one band named Dog Soldier. “The way rock was meant to be played.” The band even had some “name” talent. But, like the last band the members were in, Dog Soldier sucked.
So who are the best new bands? And will they be successful? To get to the first question last, talent doesn’t always guarantee success. Randy Newman is one of the most talented people in rock, but he hasn’t achieved financial success. Much of success depends on the record company.
The band, Elf, had the potential for great things, but MGM owns their contract. MGM was the company that said they would not promote rock-n-roll because it was steeped in drugs. Up until then, MGM had Herman’s Hermits, Eric Burden and the Animals and the Cowsills. I can’t picture anyone smoking dope to the Cowsills. Then suddenly and quietly, MGM signed Elf. And very quietly, they failed to promote them.
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