There are millions of bands just edging for their chance to escape the garage. But standing out is no easy feat.
With countless bands vying for attention, it takes a unique approach to capture the spotlight.
One remarkable example of unconventional success comes from the indie rock band Portugal. The Man.
They’ve managed to carve their niche not just through their music but also by using a surprising platform for their website—Google Sheets.
Here’s what it looks like:
Portugal. The Man: The Website: The Spreadsheet
Yes, the entire website can be downloaded as an excel file you can open up on your office laptop. You can check out the whole site online.
But why? Well, let’s look at who Portugal. The Man are.
The band hails from Wasilla, Alaska – about as far north as you can go while still being American and not dying from a polar bear.
It rose from ashes of a previous band started by the singer and bassist back in 2001. Now, they cast their magic in the eclectic city of Portland, Oregon.
If you don’t know the band, you might know the songs:
So, what’s the deal with the website?
The music industry is known for flashy sites with bold designs, crisp photos and a lot of videos.
Portugal. The Man’s choice to run their website off Google Sheets is a bold departure from the norm.
After all, Google Sheets is a spreadsheet tool. It’s designed for data manipulation and collaboration. It’s not for building websites.
However, this website is proof that unconventional choices can lead to interesting results. And its unlikely success is a testament to the power of simplicity and authenticity in a crowded market.
Their decision to use Google Sheets for their website reflects a commitment to staying true to their roots.
By forgoing a traditional website for something as unexpected as Google Sheets, they communicate a message of authenticity that works for them.
Most artists invest heavily in image crafting and meticulous online branding. Portugal. The Man’s approach stands out precisely because it rejects the conventional playbook.
It challenges the notion that a successful band must have a flashy website with all the bells and whistles. Instead, they’ve embraced a raw and unfiltered aesthetic that resonates with fans who appreciate genuine connections over glossy surfaces.
It’s a reminder that success doesn’t always follow a predetermined formula. In fact, breaking away from the norm can be a strategic move in itself.
Your business should be unique to you. It should represent who you are and what you can do for your customers. It should speak in the way you and your customers speak.
I look forward to the onslaught on websites designed in MS Paint next year.
