In a world where physical records may eventually become obsolete, the impact of touring and local music needs to become more prominent.
Right now, tixdaw.com reports that touring is currently the fastest growing sector of the music market but, with records sales declining each year, the industry is taking other measures to stay afloat.
Thus, the rise of the 360 deal, a contract signed by the artist or band that lets the record label tap into money earned from concerts, merchandise sales, endorsement deals and anything else that uses the artist’s music or brand.
In exchange, the label supposedly spends more time helping the artist. At the same time, the label also knows all the ways of making their money back in case an artist were to fail.
I remember the first time I heard about the 360 deal. I was surprised that some artists were signing them and I’m even more surprised today as it’s said one-third of artists now sign these deals.
However, today I don’t feel like there’s anything wrong with the deal, as it is an attempt to keep the record business alive and maybe even a step into making some music free—which also spurs event sales.
So, in a world where everything is changing, the tours and local shows can become even more important not only to the artist but the record labels, as well.
Whether it’s because the industry is down, they do it because they love it or to see small venues fill up, there’s nothing like seeing a band play live.
Also, there’s nothing like spending time in line, outside the venue, sweating and swearing with people in 90 degree weather, only to feel it was all worth it once the lights shine down and the music begins.
Lawrence, 30 minutes from Ottawa, is one of these places where small clubs downtown pack the crowds in each day.
Jackpot Music Hall, located on Massachusetts Street, has music playing almost every day of the week. Some of these are local bands who have a spot each week and others are on the ticket of some bigger names.
Even if a crowd is not familiar with every band that’s playing the show, there isn’t one show I’ve been to where an opening band isn’t thankful for being a part of the lineup.
They’re just glad you’re there to listen and hoping to gain some fans, or maybe that you’ll pick up their record. This, in my eyes, isn’t any different than bigger artists—they’ve just built a fan base already.
When you find that smaller band you love, it’s often hard to find their records in stores or online, but have you checked the local record store?
Dozens of locations across the country were forced to close shop this year alone. Even larger places, such as Virgin records, have decided to pack up. Those people in the record store can also help tailor your music tastes because they care, they’re friendly and each know the local scene.
You can blame this on technology or the industry for not adapting to change, but you can also blame it on the people. It may be hard to accept the industry is declining but I also believe that shows are a way to pick it back up—which could be a way of starting the cycle all over again.
Be the first to comment on this article!