3 mobile calls for video downloads in singles chart

The surprise move is based on the high number of videos downloaded that are currently unrecorded in mainstream figures. Video downloads make up 55% of downloads from the 3MusicStore, while audio sales account for 45%. The mobile operator is arguing that since videos are a more popular choice with music downloaders, there is a discrepancy in the charts.
“The current singles charts are not a real representation of the music people are buying,” Graeme Slattery, head of music at 3 says. “There is very little difference between our top 10 audio chart and our top 10 video chart. This should make you question why the purchase of a track from a legitimate digital outlets such as the 3MusicStore is not included in the charts simply because it has visuals to accompany it.”
A statement from 3 adds: "Artists are potentially missing out on huge radio and TV exposure opportunities because their video sales are not influencing their chart positions at the moment.”
This is a view echoed by Terry Cullen of Waterford act Dae Kim who have just released the single 'Sticky Fingers'. He believes there is a benefit for homegrown acts.
"We've spent a lot of money on videos in the past and not been able to get them shown anywhere. If 3 dealt directly with bands and made it easier to get exposure, it would be a real help. Although that said, I'd be more likely to look at a video on YouTube"
When asked whether it would disadvantage unsigned acts who have limited financial investment, he remains pragmatic.
"They can be a lot of money to make - two years wages in some cases - but it's like recording: if it's important to a band's success, you'll find ways and means to do it."
Ronan Cunningham of SuperJimenez, who are set to release 'Faye', agrees. "Any band can do a video for next to nothing. There's things like the Hot Press/Tisch video competition and you can also just got to local students. We did that, and they were mad keen - they had all the equipment too so the cost was minimal for us. If videos are more popular than audio as a format, it should be included."
If 3's campaign is successful, it would account for 24.9% of the music charts. Already its 13% contribution is as much as all high street shops combined.