Mr Smith started out in 2005 with the idea of giving their music away for free in a bid to attract fans to their social media-website. At the time the idea of unsigned bands giving away their music was unusual, as selling CD's at gigs would be the main course of income. Mr Smith's idea was to create a fan base by providing everything for free in the hope that their fans would purchase merchandise and, most importantly, tickets for shows.

The idea was reasonably successful and at its peak their old website had well over 6000 members who interacted with the band and each other on a daily basis. Mr Smith provided content such as music, videos and articles - the fans provided content in forum posts, reviews, pictures and comments.

Musically, the band have enjoyed some success playing many sold-out shows across the UK. They became known for a style of melodic guitar-based pop with lyrics relating to every day life, in an amusing style. When playing live this was often interspersed with cover songs that were considered unusual for a guitar-based group but fit with the style of lyric and melody.

Members of the band often comment that they were slightly too late with the social media idea, and way too early with the free music. The success of subscription-only music services such as Spotify might support their view.

2020 was a bitch of a bitch. wasn't it?

www.MrSmith.co.uk

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