Supporting Artists: Does Purchase from Amazon or iTunes Yield Greater Benefits?

When making a purchase, many music enthusiasts wonder if buying from Amazon or iTunes is more beneficial for supporting their favorite artists. The answer often lies in the specifics of how the money is distributed and the direct impact on the artists' income.

The Breakdown of Digital Download Profits

Typically, when an shopper opts to purchase a digital download from a mainstream platform, the artist only receives around 70% of the sale. This amount does not factor in any fees that distributors or labels might take. For example, in the fast-moving digital music scene, labels like eMusic and TuneCore might take 20-30% of the gross sales, reducing the artist's share further.

The Reach and Payment of iTunes and Amazon

While each platform may have its advantages and disadvantages, many believe that iTunes tends to offer a higher percentage of the sale to the artist. Mark Tyler, a music industry insider, points out that ‘In Australia, the pay to the artist is much higher than in the US.’ This can be attributed to the local music store policies and agreements.

Apart from distribution channels, many artists and labels also distribute their music directly to fans through platforms like Bandcamp, MySpace, and Facebook. These direct-to-fan purchases often result in a significantly higher percentage going to the artist, sometimes as much as 90% of the sale.

Choosing the Right Platform for Maximum Support

For those looking to support their favorite artists most effectively, it's essential to consider the long-term benefits of each platform. Purchasing directly from the artist’s website or a niche music store, such as Bandcamp, offers a clear advantage. Direct support not only increases the artist's revenue but also builds a stronger connection with their fans.

Direct Support Through Artist Websites and Platforms

When making a purchase, shoppers should explore the artist's official website, Bandcamp, MySpace, or Facebook. These platforms are designed to provide a direct channel for fans to support the artist. They often come with the benefit of personalized content like lyrics, videos, and engaging with the artist through comments and messages.

Bandcamp, in particular, has gained popularity due to its straightforward and user-friendly interface. Artists can set their own prices, implement unique pricing models like tiered pricing, and even offer custom merchandise. This flexibility ensures that the artist is better compensated and retains a strong relationship with their audience.

Conclusion

Choosing the right platform to support an artist matters. While platforms like Amazon and iTunes are widely recognized, direct purchases often provide the most significant benefit to the artist. Supporting artists through their own websites or niche music platforms not only helps in building a loyal fanbase but also ensures that more of the money ends up in the pockets of the musicians who create the music we love.