You probably have never heard of the web video rising star “I am f_ucking Ben Affleck” and are probably unfamiliar with the works of Jonathon Coulton.
However via the power of new media outlets such as youtube, instant messenger, blogs, and message boards (and of course procrastination) both are poised to infiltrate the American sub culture that is internet phenomena.
Let’s start with the Ben Affleck video.
What it is: Talk show host Jimmy Kimmel has had a running gag in which he apologizes to Matt Damon for bumping off the show due to time constraints. Its a gag as Damon is not even scheduled to appear. Kimmel’s girlfriend, Sarah Silverman, made a comedic music video poking fun of her husband entitled “I’m F_cking Matt Damon”. Below is Kimmel’s response on his talk show.
Disclaimer: No swearing, lots of bleeps, hilarious
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_pFTAY7MF8&hl=en&fs=1
Why it will be a internet phenomena : Its been one day since that aired (Feb 24th). Its already been seen 75,000 times on Youtube. If the video is not taken down its on pace to be seen by millions of Americans by April.
It has star power with Kimmel, Silverman, Damon, Brad Pitt, Lance Bass, Cameron Diaz, Robin Williams, and countless others in it. Its risque, hilarious, catchy, and most especially something that is compelling enough to be circulated to the masses of procastinating Gen X and Gen Y ers.
Original Matt Damon video
[vodpod id=ExternalVideo.481280&w=425&h=350&fv=] from www.break.com posted with vodpod
Moving on to Jonathon Coulton
What it is: Actually it’s who is he? Coulton is a retired software programmer who quit in hopes of pursuing a music career. If you click on this link a yahoo video (advertisement will play first) will give you all the details if you are really curious. He runs all of this through his website jonothancoulton.com where he has cultivated of large community of listeners via free downloads, podcasts, blogs, and of course videos.
Coulton’s music is somewhat tailored to developers and IT professionals but seems to have crossed over and attracted a broader audience. While he still is mainly unknown his cult like fan base is attracting a lot of attention.
Below is a video made by a fan of Coulton. It has been viewed over 2 million times.
Why it will be a internet phenomena : 2 reasons
1) Coulton and his fans are web savvy and proficient in the proliferation of content via the web.
2) I believe his music will resonate with a larger audience besides developers. His music is a satirical commentary on society and seems on par with what many 20-35 year olds would rant about.
