In the last day or two I have got a few questions about my comments on Stereogum's "Band To Watch" posts. Perhaps my intention was not clear. A commenter hinted that Stereogum's "Band To Watch" declaration can be bought, which is simply not true.

When I guessed that Stereogum would have a retail endcap, I was commentating on the blog's influence and the blogosphere's growing power to influence album sales. In the past, I have worked in independent music distributiion and have seen how an Internet tastemaker can positively affect sales. But albums rarely sell themselves. The involvement of the label's and distributor's sales and marketing staffs are usually required. A retail endcap would be a great way to help the bands capitalize on blog love -- but only if consumers are not overcome with skepticism.

Small labels are wise to publicize a Stereogum endorsement. It makes a difference. Readers should not worry that music blog endorsements are being purchased. There have been instances of undisclosed influence -- mainly in political blogs -- but the music blogosphere (so far) understands that its credibility depends upon its independence. I have read of companies that seek to match label with blogger and pay for a positive write-up. Rather than offer readers a hyperlink, I decided not to give the companies any publicity. It is a road best not travelled.