Buying Music from the Artists

[pinkgraffiti]

So, the premise for this thread is that I normally download all my music. But recently I've started feeling guilty and I've decided that albums that I love and listen to on repeat well, I should reward the artists for them. St. Vincent comes to mind. Her new album is phenomenal, I've listened to it so many times and I've enjoyed so, that it's correct for me to give her some of my money.

OK so, what's the prob? Well, I don't like to accumulate objects (they make me feel less free) so I don't want a physical CD. So I went to iTunes to get a digital copy...but then I stopped myself because I don't want to give money to a big corporation. Actually, I don't want to give money to iTunes knowing that it probably takes, what?, 80% of the price value and only 20% go to the artist. Or so (i don't know the details).

OK, so now the punch is: is there any way to buy music DIRECTLY from the artists? I guess maybe at their shows....but what about online???

Thanks.

 

[Tiger Owl]

First, I applaud your attention to pangs of conscience. Second, you just get in touch with the artist if possible through their facebook, myspace, twitter etc. and see where you can send a money order or paypal etc. ultimately, some of your money will always be going to a big corporation unless you hand the artist the cash yourself. If you are going to download it anyway than decide how much that music is worth to you and if you cannot find a way to get the money to the artist than let the artist know that you appreciate them and donate that money to a charitable cause that the artist supports or that you would like to support. Better yet, buy the CD, burn it and give it to someone who would otherwise never get a chance to hear that music (maybe donate it to a women's shelter or orphanage as long as the music is suitable).

 

[pinkgraffiti]

thank you for replying. those were great suggestions

nevertheless, unless the artist is quite modest and obscure, i think it's quite difficult to get to speak to them directly. for instance, allison miller's album "5 AM Stroll" is not available anywhere, so i sent an email to her record label....didn't reply. sent an email to allison miller herself...didn't reply. added her on Facebook, she accepted the request super fast, sent her a message...didn't reply. god, it's like: who do i have to kill do get this cd?!

so, i mean, for example with st vincent i could try to contact her record label i guess. ...and ask them what the best way is to maximize profit for the artist. what do you...think!?