ARTIST FOR SALE: HOW PATRONAGE MAKES MUSIC MORE REAL

After leaving a major label in 2008, I turned to crowdfunding: first on my own site, then by breaking records on Kickstarter. I built a team and sold albums directly to my community. This session is going to dive deep into the trials and tribulations, and hidden time-sinks of using crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Patreon; but also the hidden gold. Over time, my use of crowdfunding and lack of reliance on the "system" has meant an unexpected freedom in art-making which has, in turn, kept my connection with my fanbase alive and authentic, with less focus on what I'm Selling and more focus on what I'm Making. And, more importantly, on the connection between artist and audience as a transcendent - and necessary - part of this strange ride we call Life.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.