Ringtones08

What: Interview with Jo Lee, Founder of the Ring It On Campaign

When: June 2007

Interview Notes:

Jo Lee began a website called, www.ringtones08.com

*         Ringtones08 is the first foray into popular political oriented user generated ringtones

*         She believes that ringtones which are a consumer staple will soon become a political staple

*         The idea was inspired by the political controversy that took place in the

Philippines

in 2004. Gloria Arroyo was recorded allegedly rigging the presidential election. The sound clip spread quickly and incited public outrage.  Arroyo was forced to make a public apology.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hello_Garci_scandal

*         Ringtones and cellphone technology are much more pervasive and sophisticated elsewhere in the world - the

U.S.

is behind significantly.

*         Where is the “mission accomplished” ringtone?  Jo Lee expects any such “gem” that is uttered by a candidate to turn into a ringtone, just as gaffs are now instantly turned into Youtube clips

*         Ringtones cross the digital/ non-digital divide in that they can be heard anywhere - the supermarket, bus stop, etc.