A little while ago, someone was giving me their insight on the state of the music industry and music in general. They explained how the digital age has changed things and some things that were accepted as normal before, are no longer a “given.” One of those things he “enlightened” me on was the fact that I should get use to giving my music away for free. “Times have changed. Everything is readily accessible. People are just going to find a way to get it anyway once it is out on cyberspace.” Hmm. Very profound.
I suppose, if musicians could get this fact solidified in their heads, they would not have to strive so hard to make a living by using their passions for artistic expression. If they only knew how absurd it was to attempt to sell their music to someone who has had no hand in their blood, sweat, tears, and financial investment of the recording process.
Furthermore this person assured me, with much conviction, that I shouldn’t worry about the order of the “tracks” because the majority of people don’t sit and listen to a record in its entirety anymore. Most people purchase singles after they hear a 30 second sampling of it and determine if it is a good song or not.
This of course led to the inevitable topic of packaging. In an effort to be efficient and deal correctly with the formats that are most popular for the sale and distribution of music, I don’t need to put as much into the album art. I just need a good “cd cover visual” and maybe some photos to use for websites and reviews. Most people don’t even get cd’s made anymore.
He then asked how my album was coming along and when he would be able to hear it. I said he could get a copy for $10 and also buy it at most online stores once I finish the artwork, get a song order I like, pay the printer, compensate the studio and mastering guy, and then pay the fees for online distribution.
