Bandcamp
Many musicians have discovered a world of potential through the internet. The virtual stage gives lesser known artists a place to grow and become something more. Bandcamp is another tool in the musician’s arsenal. This application allows users to sell music and merchandise directly to their fan base. Fans, on the other hand, can discover [...]
Many musicians have discovered a world of potential through the internet. The virtual stage gives lesser known artists a place to grow and become something more. Bandcamp is another tool in the musician’s arsenal. This application allows users to sell music and merchandise directly to their fan base. Fans, on the other hand, can discover new music that they otherwise would not have and can support those musicians through Bandcamp. Bandcamp also gives users many convenient features, like automatic file conversion that can take a .wav or similar file and convert it into Apple Lossless, AAC, FLAC, Ogg Vobis and any other audio file imaginable so that serious fans are satisfied. The musician also retains control over pricing. The user can price their music on a per set price, let fans name their price (with a minimum starting price chosen by the user) or offer up music for free. Bandcamp.com also offers search engine optimization, real time statistics, the ability to offer discount codes and bonus items that can be packaged with an album download.
Bandcamp was founded in September of 2008. Today the team consists of fewer than five individuals, including board member Toni Schneider. Bandcamp was intended to give musicians more power and the ability to make some money while reaching out to their growing fan base.
What really makes Bandcamp appealing is the way the application gives the musician complete control. Users can sell their music and merchandise, even include bonus items in music downloads. The user names their price and determines which bonus items are included or opts to offer discount codes to their loyal fans. There is no record company making the choices for them, so they can do what they feel is best for their music and the fans.
