Beyond Spotify: Musician Victoria Bigelow's Guide to Supporting Artists
In an era dominated by digital streaming, many music enthusiasts are questioning how to truly support the bands and artists they love. Phoenix-based singer-songwriter Victoria Bigelow, who recently performed at Last Exit Live in Phoenix, Arizona, offers invaluable insights into making small changes to your music-listening habits that can have a big impact on artists' livelihoods.
The Streaming Dilemma: Finding Fair Compensation
Music streaming has revolutionized how we consume music, but it's not without its flaws. Critics have long argued that platforms like Spotify often fail to compensate artists fairly, with rates as low as $0.003 to $0.005 per stream. Bigelow suggests exploring alternative streaming services that offer better payouts. Bandcamp, for instance, directs 80% to 85% of sales to the record label or artist, making it a favorite among musicians. Meanwhile, Tidal pays about $0.013 per stream, significantly higher than Spotify's rates. "If you're an audiophile, Tidal is the best place to start, and it's amazing for supporting artists," Bigelow said. Plus, Tidal's "transfer music" feature allows you to easily import your playlists from Spotify or Apple Music, so you don't lose your curated collections.
Merchandise: A Crucial Revenue Stream
Bigelow emphasizes that merchandise sales are vital for artists, especially given the financial challenges of touring. "Everyone gets a cut before you do. And financially, [touring] can put people in a really rough spot. So I think merch is one way that artists actually get to have control, unless they're fully independent," she explained. By purchasing t-shirts, vinyl records, or other items directly from artists, fans can provide a more substantial and direct source of income.
Supporting Local Music Scenes
Engaging with local music communities is another powerful way to back artists. Bigelow advocates for attending live shows and following local venues on social media or through newsletters to stay updated on events. She also recommends tuning into college radio stations, which often spotlight emerging local talent. Websites like Campus.fm can help you find stations that align with your musical tastes, fostering a deeper connection to your community's artistic landscape.
Sustainability and Lifestyle Tips from the Filter US Newsletter
In addition to music advice, the Filter US newsletter, which originally published this story, offers practical recommendations for living better. This includes sustainability hacks like using heated laundry drying racks, which dry clothes in about four hours and consume less electricity than traditional dryers. For home cooks, glass containers are highlighted as a plastic-free solution for storing leftovers, ensuring meals stay fresh and reducing waste. The newsletter also features product roundups, such as favorite laundry products and children's games, encouraging smarter, more sustainable purchases.
By adopting these strategies, music fans can move beyond passive streaming and actively contribute to the success of their favorite artists, creating a more supportive and vibrant music ecosystem.
