Beyond the Stream: Why Bandcamp is a True Friend to Independent Artists (and Why It Matters to You)

Our debut EP is now available as a digital download, via our Bandcamp page;

https://jokersflight.bandcamp.com/album/maybe-shangri-la

And since you asked I’ll tell you a little bit about why Bandcamp is cooler than Spotify.

As independent artists we pour our heart and soul into the music we create. It takes time and money, some of us do it for a creative outlet from our day to day, and for many others it is a crucial (sometimes only) source of income. Having worked for many years as a freelance writer, I knew securing my next gig, was the difference between, paying the rent or not (when things were really tight), or being able to take a short holiday in the UK (when things were at their best). So, as I venture into the world of releasing music independently I’ve been reflecting on my experiences as a writer, my friends experiences as working musicians, and how our music reaches you, the listener.

In today’s digital world, platforms like Spotify and YouTube are unavoidable, offering (often Quixotic) reach and discovery. But when it comes to truly supporting the artists you love – the ones grafting independently, fueled by their dreams, raw talent, gigs in front of a handful of drunken souls, and your connection – the platform that stands head and shoulders above the rest is Bandcamp.

You might be thinking, “Isn’t all streaming the same?” The truth is, when it comes to putting money directly into the hands of the artists who create the music you cherish, Bandcamp operates on a fundamentally different ethical level.

Here’s why it matters, not just to me, but to the entire independent music ecosystem:

Real Revenue, Real Impact:

Let’s talk numbers. On Bandcamp, artists like myself receive a significantly larger cut of every sale – whether it’s a digital download, a vinyl record, a t-shirt, or any other piece of merch. We’re talking around 82% of the revenue in most cases, compared to the fractions of a cent per stream offered by platforms like Spotify.

Think about it: that £4 you spend on my album on Bandcamp directly fuels the creation of more music, helps go towards recouping recording costs, and allows artists to make some money from sharing their art with the world. To earn the same amount on Spotify, my tracks would need to be streamed thousands upon thousands of times – a feat that’s incredibly challenging/near on impossible for most independent artists.

Direct Connection, Genuine Community:

Bandcamp describes itself as an online record store and their stated objective is to help musicians build their own community; your genuine engagement helps me and helps get our music noticed in a way that is more real than on other platforms, as it takes a bit more effort and time to consider, and wander the digital shelves finding the music that speaks to you, rather than let an algorithm recommend content. It also allows me to connect with you directly. I can send messages to our followers, offer exclusive content, and even see where in the world my music is being enjoyed. This direct line fosters a real sense of connection between artist and fan, something often lost in the vastness of streaming libraries.

You, the listener, become an active participant in my journey. You’re not just a number in a streaming algorithm; you’re a supporter, a collaborator in keeping independent music alive.

Ownership Over Access:

While streaming offers convenient access, Bandcamp champions ownership. When you buy our album on Bandcamp, you own it. You can download it in various formats, burn it to a CD, and truly possess a piece of our art. This might seem old-fashioned, but it reinforces the value of music beyond mere fleeting access.

Transparency and Artist Control:

Bandcamp is generally more transparent, let’s call it what it is, they are more honest, about its revenue sharing and its overall agenda, and provide artists with clear insights into their sales and fan engagement. We have more control over our pricing and how our music is presented. This level of control and transparency is empowering for independent creators.

Initiatives That Truly Help:

Bandcamp has consistently shown its commitment to artists through initiatives like “Bandcamp Fridays,” where they waive their revenue share entirely, putting 100% of the sales directly into our pockets. These events have been a lifeline for countless independent musicians, especially during the pandemic. They also run awareness campaigns, for example recently raising money for those affected by the Californian wild fires.

When you buy music on Bandcamp, you’re not just getting the music; you’re directly investing in an artist’s future. You’re becoming a vital part of the independent music ecosystem, helping to keep diverse voices alive and thriving.

Why not head over to our Bandcamp page https://jokersflight.bandcamp.com/album/maybe-shangri-la to purchase our new record.