In an era where music streaming dominates, many fans are left wondering how they can genuinely support the artists they love. Victoria Bigelow, a talented singer-songwriter from Phoenix, Arizona, offers insightful suggestions on how to shift our listening habits to better benefit musicians. From choosing alternative streaming platforms to embracing local talent, Bigelow’s advice sheds light on practical ways to make a real impact.
Rethinking Streaming Choices
For years, Spotify has been the go-to platform for music lovers, but neglecting the artists behind the music has raised significant concerns. With many artists receiving meagre compensation for their work, Bigelow advocates for exploring smaller, more artist-friendly streaming services like Bandcamp and Tidal.
“Bandcamp can provide artists with up to 85% of sales, while Tidal offers about $0.013 per stream—significantly more than Spotify’s $0.003 to $0.005,” she explains. For audiophiles, Tidal stands out as an excellent choice, allowing listeners to enjoy high-quality sound while supporting their favourite musicians.
Switching platforms doesn’t mean starting from scratch; Tidal features a “transfer music” function, making it easy to import playlists from Spotify or Apple Music, ensuring you don’t lose your carefully curated collections.
The Importance of Merchandising
Beyond streaming, merchandise sales play a vital role in a musician’s income. Touring can be prohibitively expensive, and many artists struggle to make ends meet. Bigelow highlights that “everyone gets a cut before you do,” underlining the financial strain touring can impose on musicians. Selling merch provides a much-needed avenue for artists to regain some control over their finances, especially for those who are independently funded.
So, next time you’re at a concert, consider purchasing a t-shirt or a vinyl record instead of just enjoying the show. It’s a small act that can have a significant impact on an artist’s livelihood.
Embrace Local Talent
As the music scene evolves, Bigelow sees a growing trend towards community engagement. “There’s a movement towards physical interaction and community-driven spaces,” she notes. Attending local gigs is a fantastic way to connect with artists and experience live music. Following local venues on social media or subscribing to their newsletters can keep you informed about upcoming performances, helping to build a vibrant local scene.
Additionally, tuning into college radio stations is an excellent way to discover emerging talent. Platforms like Campus.fm help listeners find stations that showcase local artists, adding to the richness of the music community.
Sustainability in Music Consumption
While many of us are eager to support our favourite artists, it’s also important to consider the environmental impact of our habits. Bigelow’s suggestions extend beyond music to a more sustainable lifestyle, which can include everything from eco-friendly merchandise to conscious consumption choices.
By prioritising smaller, environmentally responsible brands and opting for quality over quantity, fans can contribute to a more sustainable music industry.
Why it Matters
In a world where artists often struggle to receive fair compensation for their work, shifting our habits can foster a music ecosystem that values creativity and community. By choosing platforms that support musicians, buying merchandise, and engaging locally, listeners can profoundly influence the lives and careers of their favourite artists. In doing so, we not only celebrate the music we love but also ensure that it continues to thrive for generations to come.
