Local startup and smart commercial music streaming platform Qsic, is launching an Australian music initiative for the month of August, which sees a local, hyper-curated playlist played on rotation across many of Qsic’s customers, which cover over 2,000 physical locations nationwide.
Supported by UNIFIED Music Group and Mushroom Group, the initiative is open to all record labels who represent local talent looking for more airtime. The 100% Australian playlist, which includes 16 hours of content, is being played in place of regular playlists across customers’ time slots, depending on their brand identities.
Qsic’s curation team already embraces a strong local music strategy but is thrilled to be upping that count to help local artists impacted by Covid-19, according to Qsic CEO and co-founder, Matt Elsley.
“While lockdowns have had a devastating impact across the country, the music scene has continued to feel the deep weight of restrictions. At Qsic, music is a core part of our service offering and culture,” he said.
“We’re in a unique position of influence to actively help Australia’s most prominent retail and hospitality businesses play a bigger part in assisting the industry recover. We’re now deep in rallying mode to bring our business partners onboard and are receiving great support.”
7-Eleven kicked off the initiative in its 700-plus stores at the beginning of August and general manager of customer, Julie Laycock said the convenience retailer is proud to support it.
“We’ve made some immediate changes to include a higher volume of Australian music in our in-store radio playlists, and will be looking at what’s possible for our playlists ongoing,” she said.
UNIFIED Music Group CEO and founder, Jaddan Comerford added, “Thousands of gigs have been cancelled in the last year and artists are feeling it from an income, creative and mental perspective. That said, we know Australians love Australian music.
“Despite not being able to see their favourite musicians in person, there is a huge appetite to support the sector. We’ve worked closely with Qsic for a while and know they’re genuinely intent on helping however they can. This initiative is a wonderful start that’s warmly received by UNIFIED.”
Qsic has over 26 million unique listeners every month across 70 brands Australia-wide, spanning retail, quick service restaurants and hospitality, grocery, and petrol and convenience. Founded in 2012, the platform uses music and audio to create more engaging customer experiences.