Matthewgood.org - Looking Ahead Into The Future
Sometimes you hit a wall and when you do you have to take stock of things. Over the last few days I have been thinking about the website, how much time I dedicate to it, and how much work goes into managing it. The truth of the matter is that I don’t get financial support from my record company to keep this site going – it’s something that most record companies just haven’t figured out yet with regards to marketing potential. For example, without a scrap of promotion involved, besides that found on the site, Live At Massey Hall climbed as high as the low 40’s on the US iTunes top 100 yesterday, though it has since slipped, and remains at number 2 on the Canadian store. In truth, when SoundScan is released next week I could end up having one of the highest chart debuts based solely on iTunes sales alone – with basically next to no promotion.
There is no denying that this website, and its community, play an integral role in such things. But with that also comes difficulties. Besides myself, both Dale and Duane work on the site, besides being contributing authors. Unfortunately, I don’t possess the means to pay what a normal web firm would ask for development and daily involvement, which is actually a great deal of money. That being the case, and given that Dale and Duane are working hard to get their own company off the ground, focusing on this website without fair market-standard payment is not something that I am prepared to ask them to continue doing. Therefore, I find myself in the position of having to look at the future of the site and how best to maintain its visibility while making some changes that make it easier for me to manage.
I am currently in the process of designing something that is far simpler, something that does not use Wordpress as its base platform, and something that is, unfortunately, less interactive. For example, rather than the blog being on the front page of the site it will be replaced by a graphic, news updates, and a menu. I do plan to continue writing on the site, but given the volume of registered members and the number of people that comment, I have had to make the decision to do away with commenting altogether. I simply do not have the time to moderate comments, nor will I enter into an arrangement with strangers in which they’re willing to ‘help out’ – that only leads to problems and headaches.
Another change is that there will no longer be contributing authors on the website. Those that are currently contributing will, in the future, be making guest entries, but the design of what will be called the ‘daily writing’ page is by no means in depth. Therefore, anything posted on that page will be automatically attributed to me unless stated otherwise at the beginning of an entry – such as Guest entry by Roy El Saghir.
One of the ways that I am going to try and offset the loss of community is to open my Facebook page up to friend requests from fans. I will also be importing entries made on the website, so if you want to comment on them you can do so on my Facebook page. The link to my profile is here if you would like to send a friend request. I will say now that I will delete and block anyone that starts any sort of trouble, be it on the wall or elsewhere.
Another place to connect is via Twitter. If you use it, you can find my page here. Feel free to ‘follow me’ and I’ll do the same.
Anyway, with that said I am getting back to work. I hope that everyone has a good Thanksgiving weekend.
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October 9th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Wow. I’ll be sad to see this wonderful blog downgraded. Hopefully you can still do a good job of keeping all of us connected to whats happening to whats in the world.
October 9th, 2008 at 4:18 pm
No more comments. I hate to see it come to that but totally understand.
You have yourself a great Thanksgiving weekend too Mr. Good.
Cheers.
October 9th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
Goodluck on designing the new site:). and i hope you, your family, friends and of course your dogs have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend!
October 9th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Disappointing to hear that the site will be scaled back but you’ve go to do what you’ve got to do and I completely understand. Best of luck with the changes, hopefully everything will turn out how you want. I for one would’ve been more than happy to pay a fee or donate whenever to keep the site as it is,.
October 9th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
I think it’s cool of you to compensate one thing for another in order to put yourself out there in the community despite the headaches you get. Enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday! My birthday falls on Thanksgiving in November which means I get a turkey for a present - hurrah!
October 9th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
This is sad news. I think this site is one of the better ones on the interwebs. Oh well :(
October 9th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
I too would shell out some sort of membership fee to help finance this site. Absolutely without hesitation. Where can I sign up?
October 9th, 2008 at 4:42 pm
You’ve certainly raised my awareness on a host of issues so thanks.
Hope this means you’ll be bustin out more albums then harlequin does books (oh btw wasn’t trying to draw a parallels in terms of quality…just quantity =)
October 9th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
I’ve no intention of stopping to write on a daily basis, there just won’t be comments is all.
October 9th, 2008 at 4:50 pm
I am sorry to here about the future of this site (my favourite and to me, the most addictive site I have ever been to).
You probably already thought about it but what about donations or annual fees to help pay for the site?
For example, the Goo Goo Dolls charge $30/yr for the ability to access forums, video Q&A, pre-sale, meet and greet lottery, pictures, videos/mp3 stuff, etc…
With the large number of visitors and commenters perhaps this could be a viable option?
The Goo’s website is a bit much, but perhaps $10/yr or even $15/yr would work?
Moderators would be another issue, but it is just a suggestion. I know many would hate to see the site change because of financial reasons and would be willing to help you out. You do so much for us, how about we do something for you?
October 9th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
:( This sucks. Visiting matthewgood.org has become one of the highlights of my days and always look forward posts from all contributers and reading the comments.
I would also would gladly pay a membership fee to help finance the site.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
! ! ! ! ! *Sadness* It will indeed be a sad thing to have all of this come to an end, the community and everything that has been established here, but you gotta do what you gotta do, right?
Maybe in the future, things will change…If your company ever comes to see this kind of a promotion as a good investment, perhaps they will help you build another site like the one you have at present. Who knows…as you said they haven’t wrapped their heads around that concept yet.
Anyways, if this is one of the last comments I make on here- just want to to thank everyone here for some very good reads. It was so great to read what all the wonderful contributors had written over the past, hope you all come back as “guests” often:) A big big thank you to you Matt, as well as Duane and Dale for making this one great place to visit!!! You all invest so much time, effort and feeling into mastering each little detail of this site… Huge thanks to all, change can be good though right? Everyone needs a little break, and we’ll look forward to what the future will bring!!!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
Bummer - but I totally get your reasons. I run a couple-few semi-popular sites that don’t even touch this one in terms of community members, and yeah. It’s a freaking full time job almost. (and then there’s the kids, the husband, the actual job as a web developer).
I’m sure the hosting cost alone is a nice chunk of change. (yeah, I worked on someone’s site on the grid server at (mt), which was… fun.)
Add up the cost in terms of hours spent just managing things, not even counting writing posts and then there’s the irritation factor (which I’m sure is HUGE and I would have blown a gasket), the need for at least a full time mod and one sys admin, even at “affordable” rates…..
Gah.
I for one, totally understand the non-monetary reasons, even if financing was all taken care of. When would you find time to make music?
October 9th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
If it still means you will be writing in a blog…I could not care less what it looks like! Yes it is nice, if it is esthetically pleasing but to be honest, if it was just a blank white page with your writings, I would be a happy girl. Thank you for keeping up with it after all these years! It is something that definitely makes you stand out from all the other artists and your fans appreciate it to no end!
Will the archive of past entries still be accessible?
thanks again!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
I’m sad, given my staunch anti-Facebook stance, but on the bright side, I may finally be able to get some work done.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
I certainly understand your reasons for this Matt. Although I am fairly new here I thought it was amazing that you took the time to moderate comments and put such a personal touch on your site. Whatever the changes in the future are I look forward to continuing to visit and read your great entries. If by any chance you go with a subscription model like others are suggesting I would gladly sign up and pay a fee.
Maybe with some of the extra time you can play some more shows in the Calgary area! (wishful thinking)
Best of luck with whatever route you go with on the new site!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:16 pm
Can I ask what technology you are planning on using instead?
How come you can’t use WordPress?
Also, in terms of maintenance, once this site is up, there shouldn’t be a need to do any large modifications, unless?
Sorry, just curious from a technology perspective…
I figure you must get some crazy bandwidth though!!!
October 9th, 2008 at 5:24 pm
It is a shame that the site will be scaled down, but I understand why it is. I always enjoyed the interaction per say with the people that made comments to one topic or another. You got a got a wide variety of opinions on any given subject. But just like everything that is worth a dam it comes with a cost to maintain.
So Matt, dio what you feel is the best thing to do and I am sure people will follow in whatever format you want.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:24 pm
Community is nice, but f-book is a more convenient to keep up to date with the awesome political and social blogs… good stuff.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:25 pm
April Foo… oh.. darn :/
I’ll certainly miss how it’s been, change stinks but I’ve pondered for months how you’ve been able to take such good care of this rig and keep up with your own life and all else.
What you’ve created here is something to be proud of. Congratulations Mr. Good :)
October 9th, 2008 at 5:26 pm
:(
I like reading comments. I like commenting. Meh.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:28 pm
I would also be completely willing to pay a yearly fee! Then it would also ween out any people that just register to cause shit…therefore less moderating.
I think it is a good idea, and your fans would be completely willing on supporting you to keep it going I am sure.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:46 pm
omg yay you brought back the wall… i will put another brick in it right about…………. NOW.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
k did the font just change or is that my computer?
October 9th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Is The Hub gone too?
October 9th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
Wow. I have to say that I’m glad that it’ll all still be around even if in less of a capacity. Coming from a sheltered conservative upbringing and community this has been a wonderful trustworthy source outside of what I’ve always known. Matthew Good thank you so much for that.
No matter what I think we’ll all say we support you and your decisions. You’ve worked hard for us to keep us informed and I’m sure for each of us you’ve helped us differently in ways only we’ll ever know. So you know too I think I can speak for us all in saying that you have our support in whatever you choose to do. I also agree with everyone else who has said it, I would pay to help keep this around.
I do have to add that I will miss being able to read everybody’s comments. I have made friends through the comments and I will miss everyone. I hope we all manage to keep up through facebook and by other means as I have really enjoyed the camaraderie I’ve found here.
October 9th, 2008 at 5:56 pm
Shit, this is kind of a sad day. I love reading everyone’s comments as much as reading the actual entries. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found myself laughing out loud at some things, and tearing up over others. Sounds kind of silly, I know. But there it is.
I’ve always wondered what your website must cost you. I realize that without advertising, the cost comes totally out of your pocket. I’m relatively new to the site, and I’m completely addicted. Not a day goes by that I don’t spend time here. Like everyone else here, I’d be willing to pay a fee to be a member. Just my two cents.
October 9th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
A couple thoughts,
Ever thought of an intern?
What about applying for government money? During this election a lot has been made about funding for the arts, what about digital media? As a staple in the Canadian music scene, couldn’t you apply for funding from some sort of Heritage foundation?
Do what the Cell phone companies would do. Charge 10 cents for every comment posted.
My hamster is running on its wheel right now,
I’ll keep thinking,
JM
October 9th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
I would also gladly pay to access the site…
October 9th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
Happy Thanksgiving to you too :)
October 9th, 2008 at 6:40 pm
I can’t imagine how much work goes into your site Matt, between yourself, Dale and Duane.
The posted comments were always interesting to read.
But you and the guys need your own free time to do other things rather than the constant everyday up keep of your site.
I think it was a tough decision for all involved but a good one in the end considering your limited resources for the website.
All the best in the future and have a Happy ‘Canuck’ Thanksgiving!
Michael EH!
P.S. Also a big ‘thank you’ goes out to Dale and Duane!
October 9th, 2008 at 6:53 pm
Glad to hear the new release is selling well.
Haven’t bought a single luxury item and probably won’t for a while.
Maybe Santa will bring me the live album for Christmas.
No more comments? I think that was a plus for the site. Not being able to respond and express myself stinks.
October 9th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
If you’re still going to be writing regularly then I don’t mind if the site gets downgraded to something less fancy. I understand why you’re scaling down. Blogging really is like a full time job. I always wondered how you had the time to update so often, and I hadn’t even thought of how much a cutting edge site like this must cost, and how much time must be put into maintenance and moderation.
But I can’t deny that I’m sad to see the commenting go–that was one of my favorite things about this blog, that it was not only a place to read great articles by you and the contributing authors, but also that it was a site for discussion and, in general, a central hub of the MG fan community where all of us can touch base.
I would definitely be willing to pay a yearly fee, if that would in any way help to keep the commenting function from dying, and if it would pay for Duane and Dale’s services.
Of course, you’ve gotta do what you’ve gotta do, and I hope that the new blog format–whatever it may be–makes life easier on you. :)
Happy Thanksgiving!
October 9th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
Will you still be putting boobs on the site once in awhile?
October 9th, 2008 at 7:00 pm
Sad to see the downgrade, but happy that you’ll keep writing. Been good commenting here…
As long as the content is the same, flashy graphics and comments are just icing on the cake. Pity you just recently finished this fancy new layout, though.
October 9th, 2008 at 7:03 pm
That’s a bummer, but I think everyone can understand your position. I had been wondering what the arrangement was between yourself and Dale/Duane. Considering how involving it can be trying to launch a new company, it would be pretty overwhelming to keep up with matthewgood.org on a dialy basis at the same time.
At least they got to use it as a type of “playground”, so to speak. A popular one at that. That must’ve been good experience for them I would imagine.
October 9th, 2008 at 7:10 pm
“I’ve no intention of stopping to write on a daily basis, there just won’t be comments is all.”
yeah, but we like commenting.
October 9th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
It’s too bad it has had to come to this but really I can’t blame you. Record labels need to invest in their artists and start funding these types of things. Not only does it bring the fans closer to the artist it generates additional sales. I check the site on a daily basis. I like to hear what’s new and what’s coming up. It’s a way for you to stay current with your fans. If your record label think that this website did not serve as the main source of advertising for your live at massey hall album then they are wrong. Not only did I purchase the iTunes album, I will also purchase the CD and hopefully the Vinyl. Hopefully they see the importance of the site, get their heads out of their asses and start putting the money where it needs to be.
I say, when your contract is up you should just do this on your own. However, I don’t really know what that would entail but I think you possess the skills required to make it work.
Happy Thanksgiving Mr. Good
October 9th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
I second everyone’s comments.
October 9th, 2008 at 7:21 pm
Well, we’ll still be reading. You’ve always kept yourself open to your fans, we appreciate that.
October 9th, 2008 at 7:23 pm
Are you going to allow some sort of access to the archives of posts you have written since this site has been powered by wordpress?
October 9th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
: ( Happy Thanksgiving!
October 9th, 2008 at 7:31 pm
So approximately how much money does it cost to keep up a site such as this one? I had no idea it was that expensive.
October 9th, 2008 at 7:37 pm
Glad to see you will finally be able to implement your web design!
http://www.matthewgood.org/wp-content/uploads/funny.jpg
[Taken from: http://www.matthewgood.org/2008/02/the-power-of-the-world-wide-music-web
And besides ringtones, there could also be revenue streams in advertising lifestyle drugs, dating escorts, etc.
(I’m beng silly of course… happy thanksgiving. write as long as and however you want :)
October 9th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
What everyone else said…and yeah, you probably could apply for a CC Integrated Arts grant…
If this is my last chance to comment, I feel like I should say something profound…but I got nothin’.
:-(
October 9th, 2008 at 8:07 pm
This makes me sad. Do we need to have a sit-in, camp-out or general “roughing up” with your record company until they finance this site?? Haha. It really is too bad.
Gobble Gobble. (Happy Thanksgiving).
October 9th, 2008 at 8:08 pm
Although it will be sad to see the loss of commenting on the site itself, I look forward to the changes no matter what direction things head in. It always works out in the end.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:23 pm
Like everyone else, I too will be sad to see comments gone, but there are other excellent fan communities online, like nearfantastica.com and the Matthew Good and the Band group on Facebook, both of which I would reccommend for fans wanting to keep in touch with other fans. The fan community is something that has constantly impressed me in regards to the Matthew Good experience, so you should all be proud of that.
Matt, whatever direction you choose to go in, with the website, your music, anything, please remember you have a shitload of fans who will continue to support you, no matter what.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
load it up with all kinds of crazy google advertising
October 9th, 2008 at 8:41 pm
Although some of the comments posted by the community are thought-provoking and clever, many are utterly inane and a waste of space (ie. “Well said, Matt” and “Couldn’t have said it better myself”).
Losing the comments is no great loss and if it eliminates the work required to moderate, all the better.
October 9th, 2008 at 8:45 pm
*sigh* - I don’t know what to say, I’m glad there will still be daily posts but the downgrade just sounds … depressing. If a fee was a solution to it - I’d be in for sure. Enjoy your holiday.
October 9th, 2008 at 9:22 pm
Wow, I think this has hit me harder than my last breakup. Weird…and probably not normal. I will miss reading many of your comments (I almost feel like I got to know some of you from reading your thoughts over the last couple years), but it is a pretty understandable decision.
I guess that on the bright side, I can take the myriad of hours that I normally spend reading the comments on this site and maybe start working on my thesis.
Any idea yet when the site will go under the knife?
October 9th, 2008 at 9:25 pm
though infrequent, my sometimes embarrassing participation on your blog has helped me get through/resolve some heinous mental health issues. I’m now migrating off government disability assistance and back into the workforce. not to be trite, but your blog experiment has helped me a great deal, so thanks to everyone. I hope blogs are incorporated into standard mental health treatment regimes. Perhaps you can resolve to withdraw comments temporarily until a better less onerous way to manage them is figured out. all the best.
October 9th, 2008 at 9:52 pm
:(
*
October 9th, 2008 at 10:12 pm
You`re entitled to your privacy with regards to the reasons you may no longer want comments on the site or the software you can or cannot use….but from a logical standpoint, it would make sense to charge everyone 15$, and at 10-15 thousand fans, that`s enough to pay two full time programmers.
I don`t see what the big deal is as we`re all grateful to read you, and would pay that if it meant keeping it all the same.
October 9th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
Commenting here led to discussions. Helping form new ideas and challenge old ones. Will see what the future holds, but my online commenting career is in the past :-(
October 9th, 2008 at 11:12 pm
Matt,
Not many artists communicate with thier fans to the extent that you have. Just reading your opinions on various things is more than I can ask for, and I think it’s really cool that you are still allowing your fans to comment you through other various sites. However this plays out I am sure that it will be just fine. Many other fans and myself will support you either way, and that’s one thing I am sure of for the future to come.
Thank you so much for the past experiences with this site, it has meant the world to me. I have learned so much.
Now, let’s all get ready for the new experiences to come! I know I’ll try and be there for every step of the way.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:42 pm
I have always wondered how you manage to find the time to deal with all the activity on this website and still do that other stuff, like create great music. I will miss the comments from everyone but completely understand your wanting to scale things down.
It’s great of you to think about what Dale and Duane need in order to help the business be successful. I hope you understand though that the work you all have done together is great promotion for them so don’t go thinking that you have taken advantage or something. Although you obviously feel that continuing to use them would be taking advantage.
What matters most about the website is the quality of content. You, and the other authors, have done a great job of being a teacher for all of us and since you plan to continue making entries then I don’t see a huge downside for the fans.
I would also gladly pay a fee to keep the website the way it is now but I get the feeling that your decision is far less about money than other things.
This weirdly feels like a “I have to break up with you but we can still be friends” kind of moment :-) ha ha
Take care and have a great Thanksgiving Matt.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:44 pm
It is pretty upsetting about the changes that are about to be happening, but I can deal with it. Though I was thinking about it, and though this would probably be way to much of a hassel, I will put the idea out there anyways. I thought that if you really felt like talking/communicating with fans you could make a seperate msn account, and whenever you were bored, or what have you, you could chat with online fans. It would be mostly the same as facebook sort of. I don’t know, bad idea probably, but there it is.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:46 pm
Best wishes to you in your future endeavors. As an old sideman, I can honestly say, you got the goods, the real deal. Again, i’m sorry we got off on the wrong foot, but am glad it got straightened out.
As for the rest of you guys; never lose your enthusiasm, your sense of outrage, and your strivings to make this a better world.
Vika, it was a pleasure to have made your acquaintance.
October 9th, 2008 at 11:52 pm
[my 2nd posting on this thread] I’ve been meaning to mention this for a while: Having worked in the industry both here and in Europe, I’d bet a lot that RIM would partner with you to manage your site [plus provide additional appropriate compensation] were you to commit to promoting their new consumer oriented touch screen phone. Up until now, they’ve catered to the business market. Work out a deal. Your priorities are in congruence with billionaire co-founder Jim Balsillie’s [check out his international governance centre in Waterloo]. The only catch is you’d have to give up your Apple iPhone. This is so obvious it hurts.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:55 am
I’ve been on the web for a year and a half now and luckily for me this was one of the very first sites I visited. I’ve often thought to myself that I stumbled onto the Lambhourghini of websites (sorry, I can’t spell cars). (That’s the best car, right? Anyway, that’s what I’m trying to express.)
Thank you so much for this site in all its incarnations. I’ve learned a lot about you and your music and also about (and from) the other fans who’ve commented here. I’ve learned an incredible amount about politics and social justice issues here too.
I know I’ll continue to read what you and the other contributors post on this site. To the other commenters I’ll say so long. And thanks.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:57 am
Well, the reasoning is sound. Thanks for moderating for as long as you have.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:59 am
To be honest I’m not all that sad to see it go (though it’s an impressive piece of web engineering that I think will seriously enrich Dale and Duane’s portfolio).
It’s not that there isn’t the occasional gem in the comments; it’s just that there are too many to really keep up with and most of them aren’t very interesting, at least in comparison to the actual content of what you/Dale/Roy have written. So I skim them at best, ignore them mostly.
I do hope the transition goes well, best of luck with that. It’s an unenviable job, like tearing down the fucking Louvre.
October 10th, 2008 at 4:57 am
Regardless of whether Matt does shitcan the commenting feature I still say as members of this community we at least owe it to him for the many years he’s put into this site.
Implement some kind of system where community members have the option to pay an annual access fee.
Still ammend the site if you wish and use the proceeds for whatever you chose.
If not for the site, let us finance your trip to England.
I think it’s the least we can do.
Seriously.
October 10th, 2008 at 5:19 am
It’s pretty understandable that you’ve decided to go this way with the site, it requires a lot of upkeep and without any support from your record company it’s all personally funded. Though I did want to say one thing, it seems in the past comments have been removed, then brought back, the removed again, and so on and so forth. I know there have been valid reasons each time (i.e. people abusing the privilege, threats, etc.) it just seems like it’d be easier to stick with one option and keep it that way. But hey that’s just my advice, which is worth as much as you paid for it. I love the website and enjoy reading it multiple times a day. Cheers Matt!
October 10th, 2008 at 5:41 am
My last comment (sniff, sniff). This site is a gem for many reasons. You have cultivated a following that extends far beyond your fan base as a musician, so it’s great to hear that you will still be writing. And good luck to Dale and Duane in getting Brave New Code off the ground and running!
Sounds like you have been wrestling with this dilemma a long time… One would hope this will give you more time to enjoy other facets of your life, family and friends. Happy Thanksgiving.
October 10th, 2008 at 5:55 am
As much as I hate to admit it, Blogger.com is at least a valid alternative to using Wordpress. I could never really wrap my head around Wordpress so I never used it. I had a handful of blogs at one point, all using Blogger and it was more than easy to maintain,moderate and customize those sites even with my limited knowledge of coding. To it’s credit, Blogger.com has been vastly improved since I used it last.
Just a thought, I dunno.
October 10th, 2008 at 6:03 am
Is this definately the end of the matter? Or would there be some chance to with the help of the community save the commenting function over to the new space somehow? I sort of liked daala’s suggestion of collecting money, maybe starting something like a “Matthew Good web community fund”?
I totally understand that this project is requiring just too much of your time and you’d like to reduce that down to a level that allows a normal private life. I always wondered how you were managing that huge pensum of work. Basically I am fine with your decision, meaning that you will continue writing. I am just sad for the community.
October 10th, 2008 at 6:06 am
well, as my last comment, i just want to say good luck to everyone here. don’t ever give up on your dreams.
October 10th, 2008 at 6:09 am
I am grateful for all that you share; your unique insights, honesty about world issues and this community you have brought together… it is a daily ritual of mine to read and think about what has been written…. I am grateful… thank you Matt and Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!
October 10th, 2008 at 6:20 am
Dang…
Just want to say that I do build websites in my spare time and I’d be willing to help if theres anything I could do to aleviate the development/maintenance workload. I’m not going to pretend to be the best developer out there, but its a hobby, and I have a nack for it… I mean, I’ve often looked at matthewgood.org for good ideas I could implement in my current site (please don’t sue! lol)
Also, the idea of a yearly membership fee for perks such as comments, community forums and even maybe music perks (advance sales, ticket draws, etc…) would probably work (I’d join that’s for sure).
Anywho, I’ll miss being able to state my mind without being drowned out by the ridiculous bipartisan comments you see on other news sites (thinking of CBC and CTV in particular… you know what I’m talking about… the CONServative and LIEberal comments that add nothing to the conversation…)
October 10th, 2008 at 6:31 am
Strip everything away, and what you have left is themain reason most people come to this site - it’s the words, man. Everything else is window dressing.
Hell, you can write your entries on pieces of toilet paper, it doesn’t matter.
KISS - Keep It Simple, Stupid. That’s what my profs used to say :)
October 10th, 2008 at 7:19 am
It was a hell of a run in this format, Matt. I’ve enjoyed it. I look forward, as with every other redesign, to whatever comes next.
Shoot for the Turkey Coma, and tell the folks we all say hi. Have a good one!
October 10th, 2008 at 7:23 am
Talk about me changing my daily routine! LOL
I look forward to visiting your site [old habits are hard to break] and reading what’s on Matt’s mind. As for the commentaries, while I did not always agree with the others, I truly enjoyed reading their ideas and opinions. I have learned from the various authors, but I have also learned a great deal from the commenters.
Well, with all this free time, I can actually start reading your book which I bought a couple of weeks ago!
I wish you GREAT HEALTH and thank you for your time! Happy Thanksgiving to you and your Family!
As a sidenote, thanks to Mr. Smart for his guidance on Canadian History ~ you set a spark my friend and I am grateful.
Best of to All!!
October 10th, 2008 at 8:01 am
Dear Mr. Good,
I shall miss the “regulars” who comment here - will not be following to Facebook or Twitter - prefer the op ed. page format, and so will gratefully continue to read. To be honest Sir, I would never devote the time you do to this endeavour unless the payoff could be monitized…….. or perhaps made tangible in the form of greater happiness or fullfillment.
Change is good, especially if you are freed up to be more creative in other ways.
Happy Thanksgiving weekend - am heading to Muskoka for one final swim before winter….I understand the leaves are changing colour too.
October 10th, 2008 at 8:11 am
To the regulars ’round here…
I’ll really miss reading everyone’s points of view. Facebook, Flickr and Twitter don’t really allow for much insightful conversation but, well, it’s better than nuthin’, so I hope to see you all around there… feel free to add me if you see me.
Cheers, all. :)
October 10th, 2008 at 8:19 am
Wow, this is a shock. This has become a daily routine for me - I’m really going to miss the comments. I have learned so much from the experiences shared by the people here. You all have helped open the eyes of a 50 y/o to new ideas and a better consiousness of the world we live in. I think i’m a better person for it. I’m going to miss you all.
Thank you Matt for everything you have put into this site, and thanks to everyone else who contributed.
If there’s a way to keep this going, please do it. As others have said, I’ll pay for the privilege of using this site.
Best wishes to all,
John
October 10th, 2008 at 8:30 am
It has been a privilege to read and respond to the comments of others on this site. The level of discourse is exceptional, and I have learned SO much in a brief time, not just from Matt, Roy, Pat, Duane, Dale, et al but from the community of posters as well. Thanks for your support, humour and intelligence. Matt, Duane, Dale, etc. you guys run a great site.
And Matt, you gotta do whatever promotes your health and happiness. I am sure these changes are not easy for you and will be questioned, but the primary factor is your own health–mental and physical–and still being able to do what you love. Your passion for music, social justice and people is exceptional. It has been such an honour to read your words and to learn from you, which I will continue to do. I hope you will always look back at this site, and your ability to bring together a community of diverse individuals who would take a bullet for you, as a proud accomplishment. It is so much more than the music. Perhaps when you are old you will consider politics…I think you are a born leader with the ability to inspire.
Happy Thanksgiving to all…and to our friends in the US.
Susie
October 10th, 2008 at 8:44 am
Well that sucks!
October 10th, 2008 at 8:47 am
Damn
Well, like most of you I have enjoyed your comments and commraderie here. I don’t do Facebook anymore.
I hope good things for all of you.
Be well Matt.
October 10th, 2008 at 8:52 am
Completely understandable, but extremely sad as well. It’s true….others have put it so much better than I ever could but, in a world where I’ve isolated myself and have zero friends, I feel like I’ll be losing a bunch of friends here. As ket said, there are ways to stay “connected” (although I don’t accept flying pigs or zombie bites. I’m a killjoy).
Matt - you’ve extended yourself above and beyond and it is truly appreciated. The time, effort and $$ you put into this site have made it an exceptional one. I feel I learn so much here and you sometimes have me look at things from a different angle. You really reach the people and what you have to say is important - however you present it.
While I feel I’ve added very little in the comments in the way of “substance”, I still felt like I’ve had a wee little voice here. And I truly thank you for that.
To the wonderful people here - sounds soppy, but you’ve restored my faith in humanity. It can be an ugly world out there and I’d pretty much shut down…you’ve all shown me that there truly are still good, caring people out there. I wish you all the best and hope to cross paths again.
Much love to all of you.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:01 am
hey matt, was just curious if you’d considered other options that would fund dale and duane in their efforts… for example, you could have a line of merch which is sold exclusively on the website and the profits go towards the site’s maintenance. or you could webrelease a special three track ep of b-sides on iTunes, with the profits also ear-marked for the website. it seems to me these items would get a lot of community support…
October 10th, 2008 at 9:08 am
I will certainly miss the comments as well - I did not think I would enjoy communicating with other people, whose names and faces I don’t know for the most part, using the magic box on my desk and at home, so much. I look forward to the various articles that appear on here daily, and just as much to the thoughtful, passionate, silly, hilarious, and often either heart-wrenching or heart-warming perspectives of the folks that visit this site like me. Certainly some of the coolest and most interesting people I have never met. That’s my real name up there - if anybody’s ever in Whitehorse - look me up - cold Chilkoot lager on me.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:15 am
I too would be willing to pay and annual membership to keep the community up and running but I fear that this wouldn’t solve all of your issues- the amount of time required to maintain the site to the standard which you are comfortable with. Q- will you still be posting on Dear San Diego?
You have certainly given us fans more than has ever been expected and I’m sure we will all continue to follow your writings and music- in whatever form they may appear. I think we will all miss the camaraderie that existed on this site, but ever forward we all march…………..
I wish you the continued success that you deserve.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:22 am
Ket, Deb, Brian, etc…. I second all that you said- It’s weird saying good bye to everyone here- it is a strange, kooky, often dysfunctional but always thoughtful and sometimes funny as all hell little family. I will miss many of you! My blog is http://www.repliderium.com would love to have any of the old gang drop in and say hi.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:41 am
I’m very greatful that I’ve been able to be a part of a fantastic community here. I’m sure this was a tremendoulsy hard thing for Matt to do. Thanks to all the authors who contributed. I’ll miss Dale’s entries. I wish you and Duane much success building your business. You deserve it!!
Matt, your health and happiness comes first. I’m just relieved that you will still be writing. I’m going to take some time to read your books, which has been on my to do list. I have a facebook account, mainly to keep up with my son, which I haven’t used much. I’ll have to use it more often now.
Oh, and by the way, you were right. That pic was at Cemetary Ridge. Was there on Tuesday. The new museum just opened in September and includes the new cycloroma. It is absolutely awesome, and what a beautiful fall day it was to visit.
October 10th, 2008 at 9:43 am
[...] grand community that is matthewgood.org is going through some changes and will no longer be as it currently is. It’s a phenomenal [...]
October 10th, 2008 at 11:00 am
I haven’t been very up on the website for the last year or so due to family and personal issues, but I just wanted to say thank you, before the comments close. This website and its community have had ups and downs and redesigns, but the essence has stayed the same - a wonderfully designed, interactive platform to share information, entertainment and thought-provoking discussions, as well as providing updates on new shows, merchandise and releases. As far as I have ever been able to tell, from visiting the websites of other artists - even those that are personally maintained by the artists themselves, and not the management company - this site has been unique in its scope, size, and committed contributors and commentators. There has been a common passion here that arches over everything else, including the occasional comment-related dispute and upset.
As wonderful as it is, I realize that such an endeavour is a resource drain, both in the time and money mentioned in Matt’s post, and in the emotional and intellectual investment required to keep abreast of the daily changes in world events and politics, and to monitor discussions about those events. This blog has been, for the last few years, pretty much real-time in terms of reaction. While I will miss reading the comments and miss this interactive format of daily posting/discussion, I think that the changing of formats is not necessarily a defeat or failure - rather, the last few years here have been, from where I am sitting, a grand social experiment, and one that has ultimately proved successful, due to the vision of those who make the content and the input of those who received it. I have learned a great deal from some of these discussions, and have had my worldview considerably enriched by the writings of Matt and the many wonderful guest contributors.
Best wishes to everyone in the community and on Matt’s team, and I wish Dale and Duane good luck in their new business endeavour. Sometimes we need to prioritize where to expend our time and energy, and all good things must come to an end as people necessarily grow apart and/or need/want to fulfill different obligations. Life happens! May interesting times lie ahead. I look forward to reading Matt’s writings in any form, and am excited about the Live at Massey Hall album, and selfishly hope for many more releases in the future :). Thanks again, for everything.
October 10th, 2008 at 11:23 am
So sad to hear, but understandable. I rarely comment, but I still do visit the site daily and enjoy reading the posts and the comments. I think it is the community aspect of the site that keep so many people coming back day after day. It is something that I would be willing to pay for.
I would also like to wish Dale and Duane the best for their future.
Either way I’ll still most likely be on the other end of the screen…
All the best!
October 10th, 2008 at 11:50 am
I’m going to miss the comments. :( They taught me how to put together coherent political comments, which has come in handy over the past few months.
October 10th, 2008 at 12:32 pm
I would be echoing what everyone else has said, but it’s sad that the comments may be lost. I will still read every day. I always check this site before I check BBC news. I always feel I learn more reading your site.
October 10th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
To Robert R:
With mutual respect. As somebody said once - “hope it was as good for you as it was for me” :)