How a student project evolved into a major force in digital music journalism
In short: Born in a college dorm room, Consequence transformed from a niche music blog into a multimedia powerhouse. By breaking major industry news and expanding into podcasts and film, it has secured its place as a top-tier influencer in the digital landscape. Discover the evolution of this independent media brand.
Founded in September 2007 by Alex Young, the platform originally operated under the name Consequence of Sound. The moniker was inspired by a track from Regina Spektor. Early in its history, specifically in January 2008, Michael Roffman assumed the role of Editor-in-Chief, helping steer the publication toward its status as a significant voice in music criticism. By 2010, the site had already garnered recognition as the premier music blog according to About.com, a distinction earned through its consistent presence in industry rankings and online discourse.
The publication’s influence grew through strategic pivots and expansions. In 2014, it broadened its scope to include film coverage, eventually joining the Chicago Film Critics Association. The year 2016 marked a structural shift when the outlet was reorganized under Consequence Media, a firm focused on digital marketing and advertising. This period of growth continued in 2018 with the launch of the Consequence Podcast Network, which achieved over 100,000 downloads in its inaugural month, and a collaborative effort with Sony to produce the music-history series The Opus.
The brand underwent a major visual and identity refresh in 2021, officially rebranding as Consequence. This evolution has been punctuated by high-profile editorial milestones, such as the 2022 launch of its first cover story featuring the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Beyond reviews, the site has established a reputation for investigative and breaking news, including its 2009 scoop regarding the Coachella lineup, the 2015 report on the LCD Soundsystem reunion, and its 2018 coverage of abuse allegations involving Boyd Tinsley, which preceded his departure from the Dave Matthews Band.
Today, the organization continues to diversify its footprint. In 2023, its parent company, Consequence Media, expanded its portfolio by acquiring Modern Drummer. Throughout its existence, the site has maintained a consistent presence on lists of influential music blogs, including rankings by Hypebot in 2019 and Style of Sound in 2014, solidifying its role as a central hub for entertainment news and cultural analysis.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Consequence (website)
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