Google+ Hangout Feature Powers Virtual Concert

Singer songwriter Daria Musk recently used the new Hangout technology on Google plus to promote a 6.5 hour virtual concert around the globe. The entrepreneurial artist ultimately reached thousands of viewers from Norway to Argentina to Australia.

According to Google, each Hangout can have a maximum of 10 participants so Musk urged her fans to stay for a few songs and then make room for others to jump in. Google Director of Engineering, Chee Chew, attended the Hangout and provided technical assistance throughout the concert.

“For us on hangouts, it’s about really connecting small groups together face to face, bringing people together from around the world in a new way,” says Chew. “We all have a human need to connect and communicate.”

“Google’s new Hangout technology is a real game-changer for the music industry,” said Sean Wolfington, owner of Tier 10 Marketing, whose digital marketing and public relations agency represents Musk. “Traditionally the record labels dictated which artists get exposure; however, this cutting edge technology introduces a whole new platform that talented artists like Daria can leverage to take control of their exposure.”

The story has already been picked up by CNN and Reuters. A second concert named “Gl+bal G+thering of G+niuses” has been set for July 23 at 7 pm ET. To accommodate Daria’s ever-increasing global audience, members of the Google+ fan community created www.HangoutParty.com, which will stream Saturday’s concert to an unlimited number of fans around the globe. As a result, Daria’s performance and interaction with those in the “Hangout” will remain intimate, while thousands in the overflow crowd watch the broadcast live.