5 Ways to Support Artists Right Now

The music industry’s been turned on its head as record sales have fallen by the wayside and touring has become the main source of income for musicians. And thanks to our current situation, thousands of tour dates have been canceled and artists of all calibers are facing uncertain financial futures. They’ve also been some of the first to act, planning live streams of intimate, acoustic online concerts and even mini online weekend-long festivals immediately after tucking themselves into quarantine, bringing much-needed light and comfort during a dark time. Music adds so much richness to our lives, so how can we support artists and make sure that they can continue to share their art going forward?

1. Buy from Bandcamp
   If you don’t have a direct line to your favorite artist, buying their music or merch on Bandcamp is one of the most direct ways to make sure they get paid for their work. Friday, March 20th, Bandcamp is foregoing taking their cut of revenue so that musicians get 100% of the proceeds. Bandcamp also allows you to tip, offering a name your price option with or without a price minimum. If you have it, consider throwing in a few extra bucks. Another cool thing about Bandcamp is you can send music as a gift. Sending a friend a band shirt you’ll know they love or even just one digital track can help an artist and lift your friend’s spirits.
   
2. Give to MusiCares
   The Recording Academy’s affiliated foundation MusiCares provides services and relief to musicians year-round. Due to the pandemic’s impact, they’ve extended their services to include those facing lost income due to tour date cancellations, venue closures, and travel restrictions. Musicians can apply for grants of up to $1000 (for now.) The more we give, the more musicians will be able to apply for more grants if necessary. Donate here.
   
3. Sign the Recording Academy’s Music Advocacy Action Petition
   Take a minute to sign a letter urging Congress to provide relief to musicians or include them in relief packages. While you’re at it, take another minute to sign a similar letter for the behind-the-scenes peeps who make all the magic happen for us.
   
4. Share Their Music
   If your favorite artist is streaming a concert, let your friends know and invite them to join. Even if you can’t pay, an audience, words of encouragement, and moral support go a long way. But if you can, please tip! Broadening a musician’s audience can make a huge difference.
   
5. Send Them Money
   You don’t need to wait for an online concert or an album to drop to help out your favorite artists. If you already have their full collection, don’t need any more records (just kidding of course), or just want to help out, send a tweet or a DM letting them know you want to support them and ask for their PayPal or Venmo info. This is when the whole “community” thing becomes really important. Reach out to the people closest to you, even if all you can lend is an ear. If you can’t send money, send some love.