Jan Bossing
Aug 25, 2017 · 2 min read

PROMOTIONAL PRICE

Should events charge an entry fee, a “door?” Should albums be free?

Just yesterday, discussing events and production questions, I heard it loud and clear: “Maybe staging a free event reflects on the merit of the performers….” It gave me something to think about; it was common sense in the wonderful worlds of production and promotion. It’s one thing to create a work of art; it’s another altogether to sell it. So a band has a new album or maybe an artist of exhibiting at a new gallery space. Artists usually want to share — how can we get fans and family and friends to come out for the album release party or the opening night of the exhibition?

With the comment on “staging a free event” still fresh in my mind, I was a little wary of the row of free CDs, neatly arranged on top of the rack containing free “advertisers” at the coffee shop. The CDs were overlapping in a fan-shaped display; they were colorful and eye-catching. I noticed them as I went in. When I left, I picked one up. I knew I didn’t have any means of playing a CD at the moment, but I’d be home with “time on my hands” in a few days.

In the meantime, I went on-line to sample the CD. I found it quickly, but encountered a little confusion there; same album name, same tracks — different band name — whaaaat? whyyyyy? I down-loaded the CD so I can listen in airports and on airplanes; glad I have some earbuds.

I got a receipt from the down-load company via email, and a thank you from the band — also via email. They asked if they could put me on an email list to receive updates on albums and events. I responded “sure.” I did not mention my confusion over the name of the band. I have not been able to find a website, but the name on the band email matched a musician’s name listed by the down-load company. Gotta be some of the same group.

Bottom line — when something’s good, I don’t mind paying for it.

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