Yesterday, I posted a blog about about a guy who said, “I don’t pay for music!”. I got a lot of great responses. I want to clarify a couple things.
First, the guy said specifically, “I don't pay for music” not for “CDs” like I mentioned in the post. If it was CDs, that'd make sense. More and more people are moving towards digital downloads.
Second, I'm not angry at the guy . My music career was started on the premise of free music. I want people to hear my music because I believe it will result in more sales in the long run. I still believe if that guy actually sat through one of my shows or listen to one of my albums, he would become a fan and eventually buy my CDs.
I know a lot of people, especially younger folks, don't have money right now. Our lives are filled with peaks and valleys of financial stability. I've been known to give people CDs because they were broke right now, but they loved my music. I tell them to mail me a check if they love the CD and when they get some money. I don't follow up. I trust.
I do believe musicians should be paid for their art. I prefer to support indie musicians too. If I love an artist, I will buy their physical CD. If I like 'em and want to support them, I'll sometimes order just the downloads.
But much like U2, who just released their latest album to the entire iTunes network, I just want my music to be heard. That's why I tell Gunn Runners all the time, PLEASE PLEASE SHARE MY MUSIC. If they only listen to one song, but they love it, I'm okay with that.
So find a Doctor Who fan and share “Doctor of Gallifrey“.
Find a Star Trek fan and share “Romulan Ale“.
Find a Steampunk fan and tell them you found the original Steampunk song that was written in 1904 and share “Come Take a Trip in My Airship”.
Give them the MP3. Then casually mention, “It is on Marc Gunn's newest album Sci Fi Drinking Songs“.
People will take notice. And many will be inspired to listen some more. If not, that's okay.
Now, that said. Not every musician is as free with their music as I am. For them, I strongly encourage you to respect their art, and buy.
I have problems CEASING to sing the airship song!!
By the way, my sister now wants your Irish drinking songs for cat lovers!!!
I hope I didn’t upset you, Marc. I can’t stand the idea of your family going hungry and that’s what motivated my rage.
I am grateful for all you do for us!
No. Not a big Maria. I appreciate it. A LOT. I just also want you to know I don’t hold onto that anger because as crazy as it is to me, and you, I think he’s in the minority. So thank you!
I just DO NOT understand how some uninspired person could listen to your songs & not be cheered afterwards.. The songs Danny Boy the the Lullaby are among the best ones.. People will look at me wen I tell them it’s about a cat…I NEVER close MY EYES when you sing lullaby since I want want to see their faces when you get to the chorus on either the original or the new Firefly version…the audience is sitting there quiet & peaceful then blam here comes the chorus>>> what a riot… LOve it…K. Dobie…