While we have all been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, we cannot forget about artists who have been directly impacted by the postponement and cancellation of tours and shows.
In March, streaming service and music marketplace Bandcamp kicked off an initiative that will waive their entire revenue share of any music or merchandise purchased through the platform, on the first Friday of every month for the remainder of 2020. Used by thousands of record labels and hundreds of thousands of artists, Bandcamp normally collects 15% of digital music sales and 10% of merch, but on these dates that money will go directly into the hands of artists, creators and labels. The streaming platform held their first 24-hour fundraising window on in March, during which fans spent a remarkable $4.3 million – 15 times more than the typical Friday. These have continued regularly throughout the pandemic, bringing artists millions of dollars of revenues in a time of crisis – over the past four Bandcamp Fridays, artists have pocketed over $20 million.
“With such a major revenue stream drying up almost entirely, finding ways to continue supporting artists in the coming months is an urgent priority for anyone who cares about music and the artists who create it.”
Ethan Diamond, Bandcamp CEO
As we head further into a lengthy period of closures across the globe and no certain date for the return of live music, it is paramount that we do what we can to support the artists we love, whose music has lifted us in the past and present. Participating in these fundraising days can help an artist cover rent, pay bills, put food on the table, afford medications and so much more. Please visit Bandcamp today and purchase music from your favourite artists in order to support the global creative community.
“It may sound simple, but the best way to help artists is with your direct financial support…”
Ethan Diamond, Bandcamp CEO