If you want people to download your next record, start giving them a string of free downloads now. Groom them.
People are used to listening for what feels like free to them: Youtube, Spotify, Apple Music, etc.
So when you release your new record and you throw up a bunch of stuff online about “Go Download My New Record!” it throws a wrench in the norm of day to day listening.
You are not Adele.
Adele isn’t throwing you a bone by not having her record on streaming right now.
She’s throwing herself a bone, millions of them. But 25 will be on streaming soon enough. Just like the stars and whoever else who was sticking it to the man by not having their music on iTunes ten years ago. Every single one of them does now.
As for you “Go listen to my record” sounds a lot more hip than “Go download my record”. Downloading is old. Listening is forever.
But if you want the downloads, it must become part of the culture of your fanbase and you need to start early early early in solidifying that element.
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I’m always interested in your perspective, whether affirming or dissenting. Continue the conversation anytime: gabethebassplayer@gmail.com