What can we do as fans, listeners, and supporters to help our favorite artists stay afloat during this pandemic?
Buy Merch
There’s no better time to add to your collection of CDs, tapes, and LPs. Get some new cozy band tees to wear at home with your sweats. These things directly support the artist during this time – and don’t forget to purchase directly from bands rather than third party retailers!
Musicians and live performers generate most of their income by touring. If you bought tickets to a live performance that has been canceled, check with the artist to see if they’re doing any virtual performances. Consider offering the amount you would have paid for a live performance to purchase anything that the artist offers online.
Bandcamp
Bandcamp will be waiving their revenue share on sales this Friday, March 20th and asking the community to get behind this initiative by purchasing songs from their favorite artists. All proceeds will go directly to the musicians. You can read more about Bandcamp’s initiative here.
Tune Into Online Content
And Attend Virtual Events – Cherie Hu has compiled a virtual music events directory that lists existing and upcoming events, explains how to hold your own virtual events and also links to emergency funds for artists affected by COVID-19’s impact on the music industry.
Additionally, in the coming weeks, our friends at Dublab intend to utilize their online radio platform to share resources and initiatives that will aid artists and local community members who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus tons of continued music programming to tune into while you’re working from home.
Artists around the world have started streaming live performances online – show your support here too!
Share The Music You’re Listening To
Word of mouth goes a long way and is extremely valuable during a time when we’re all locked in online. Share music on all social platforms to give musicians extra visibility (especially if they had a show cancel recently). Plus you’re sharing new amazing music with your friends and followers who may not have heard of them otherwise!
Fundraising & Crowdfunding Campaigns
Check to see if a local business, venue, or artist is fundraising online right now. Whether it’s Patreon, GoFundMe or Kickstarter, contributing to these campaigns is a great way to show your support.
More ways to support here: https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/9337908/coronavirus-resource-guide-music-professionals-help
Freelance Artists & Covid-19
This resource list was compiled with freelance artists (ranging from visual arts to music, to film, and beyond) in mind. Here you’ll find links relating to advocacy, emergency funding, and so much more. Click here for more information. Stay healthy, stay home, stay informed, stay involved.
