We’ve all heard about the wave of layoffs and changes that Songtrader has made since the recent acquisition of our beloved Bandcamp. I started using Bandcamp relatively early, I think opening an artist account back around 2011 for use with the Lighten Up Sounds label, and the site has evolved and changed quite a bit since then, growing to become probably the most used and accepted form of artist-run websites for selling and streaming of digital music. It’s never been my exclusive focus, but obviously I appreciate all that that Bandcamp has to offer and the community that’s grown around the platform.
After reading about some of my favorite writers getting laid off and having their columns canceled, I’ve been unsure of the best way forward, and wondering what a potential dream space might actually look like. I’m not planning on leaving Bandcamp anytime soon, but I do think it’s worth exploring other options and consider myself totally open to new platforms as they might appear and evolve.
So, here’s a link to the new official Hiram Artcore artist page.
This might be particularly of interest for friends in the EU and UK, acting as a host for high-quality audio files for all Hiram music. The story of the platform is cool, designed with DJs and electronic artists in mind, and holding extensive metadata for searching and discovery. Please check it out when you have a moment.
Artcore is still pretty new, and has been making small improvements regularly, but it’s a simple solution to the ethical dilemma of “how possibly else?”, and at the very least provides a ray of hope in this chilly November morning. Your support through Artcore goes to me directly, it’s high-quality, easy to use, and seems like a nice alternative worth exploring. Here’s a personal referral link to sign up if you’re interested in setting up an artist account.
I’ve seen a few folks using Ninaprotocol recently as well, and I’m curious, but how many hours are there in a day? I also removed a radiator this week btw. It’s all just another way for folks to hear the music, which is the whole point.
So please take a moment to acknowledge your place in the present, try to stay calm, and thanks for listening.
