More Acts Going the Independent Route

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2 responses to “More Acts Going the Independent Route”

1. 

   Gideon Marken

   August 12, 2005

   As one who has been involved with the online music scene for 5+ years, I have to say that it’s been quite interesting seeing the changes in attitude, dreams and desires.

   Years ago, I knew dozens of people who sent demos out, who were looking to get signed, who wanted ‘it’ so bad.

   Fast Forward to today… and what we have are the same artists – but most don’t care about labels or getting signed or sending out demos. The reality, is that doing those things isn’t going to get you far – and that your energy and time are better spent on your music and ensuring that it gets well distributed.

   A few artists out there pull together and start collectives – others do the same but make it their own label – and we also have Web labels popping up. The rest of us just crank out music and for the most part, make it available for free. In each case – it’s the artists taking things into their own hands – using the Web as their main tool for bringing on change.

   I think this shift of desires and goals for artists is very empowering – as you can see, the DIY principle is in full effect. The Web, digital music, the software for recording, the sites for hosting and distributing – they all serve as a catalyst – they place opportunity in the hands of anyone w/ a connection to the ‘net.

   For those who are still barking up the, “I gotta get signed” tree… they need to read up on what’s going on.

   The reality is, very few acts are supported by their labels – very few have a good budget – and if there’s no budget – then what good is the label? Distribution you say? No problem… my music is available 24-7/365 days a year – I’m a independent artist – the Web is my label – and I own the rights to my music. Granted, I’m not making a living from my music – but that isn’t a goal for me personally. Which brings us to another point.

   Can Independent artists and bands survive on their music alone? Yes. Definately. But you certainly can’t be a rockstar slacker who parties all night and sleeps all day. 🙂 It needs to be a job – your music is your product, and if you perform – you are a service.

   And hey – if it doesn’t work out, every town in the United States can support a 70’s disco cover band, a Beatles cover band and a few 80’s cover bands. You’ll be doing other peoples music – but you can survive (while wearing with a big 70’s wig).

   In closing… not all labels are evil – but I’d have to say, my favorite labels are those owned by artists. 😉

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2. 

   mikeb

   August 15, 2005

   Gideon,

   Great thoughts. ‘Getting Signed’ used to be the only way to secure distribution of any kind for your music. Only labels had the resources necessary to record, produce, and distribute an album.

   Digital audio recording technology has changed everything. Correction. It has provided the tools necessary to change everything. But things haven’t changed quite yet — for most artists, being part of a label is still their first and foremost goal. However, like you say, many artists are beginning to “get it,” realizing they now have the ability to self-sustain and self promote.

   And like you said, there’s is ALWAYS room for a 70s cover band in any town, if your own music doesn’t find any followers. 😉 Heh.

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