Bing Crosby was the first person to use a microphone to croon.  Bing realized the microphone allowed the performer to deliver an intimate performance.  You didn’t need to shout to be heard at the back of the hall.   Tone trumped volume as Bing  sang like he was in your living room.

FDR harnessed the power of the radio and the “fireside chat” to bring intimacy and a new connection to your government.

Brando was the first actor to embrace the medium of film (contrast with the early talkies who simply shouted vaudeville style into the camera.).  Brando delivered intimacy and dramatic range.

Barack Obama’s YouTube weekly address, not to mention his social network and Twitter account  brings another level of  intimacy with an on-demand relationship with your government.