Max HeyraudSpotify Wrapped has arrived, the annual viral trend that gains more steam each year, based entirely on your personal data. While it’s fun, Spotify is responsible for unfairly paying artists and weakening the connection between music and its creators, and Wrapped fuels this year after year, but there are better ways to support artists, which we’ve outlined.
Spotify Wrapped feeds into our egos and the desire to flaunt our listening habits, turning personal music choices into a competitive display of identity. Even worse, it supports a company notorious for underpaying artists year after year. Instead of participating in this cycle, consider supporting artists in more meaningful ways through the solutions we’ve outlined below.
Purchase Music on Bandcamp
Bandcamp is the best platform for supporting independent artists and labels’ work. Purchasing music directly ensures that a larger portion of the revenue goes to the artist, particularly on Bandcamp Friday.
Buy Merchandise from Artists and Labels
Purchasing merchandise like T-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, and posters directly supports artists and is often more sustainable than mass-produced corporate items.
Buy Tickets to Gigs
Buying tickets to an artist’s shows supports the artist and benefits local communities, venues, and promoters. Purchasing in advance helps ensure these events can continue.
Share Artists’ Posts on Social Media
Engaging with artists on social media helps them raise their online profile and maintain high visibility. Liking, sharing, and commenting on their posts increases their reach while following them on multiple platforms keeps you up to date on their latest work.
Support Artists on Patreon or Crowdfunding Platforms
Many artists use platforms like Patreon to connect with fans and raise funds for their creative projects. This allows fans to directly support artists they like while knowing their money is going straight to them.
Support Independent Labels
Supporting independent labels helps artists by providing resources and a platform to advance their careers. Independent labels provide more personalised attention and more equitable revenue splits, allowing artists to keep a larger portion of their earnings.
Shop at Local Record Stores
Buying from independent record shops helps to give back to the community. Since both the artist and the retailer rely on the community, this is hugely beneficial to both parties.
Share Their Music on Social Media
Share links to music on SoundCloud, Bandcamp, and other platforms on your social media to boost streams and encourage purchases. Adding music to Reels and TikToks is also a great way to help reach a wider audience.
Subscribe to Streaming Services Like Mixcloud or SoundCloud Pro
Support artists with better revenue-sharing models by subscribing to streaming services like Mixcloud or SoundCloud Pro. These platforms provide higher-quality audio, exclusive content, and guarantee that artists receive more money from streams.
Photo Credits: Conor Beegan