I believe it's necessary for me to find a cofounder that understands music, so that we can understand each other on a common level. Having a common understanding and goal is very important to the sucess of this idea(startup.)
The web has allowed so many unknown artists to reach fans they would have never been able to reach before, but it has also made them more vulnerable.
3 thing's are for sure: 'People' love music, love the internet, and love sharing. If we can successfully incorporate these 3 things to a music service, the DIGITAL AGE OF MUSIC will rise to it's full potential.
Free music is totally feasible, it only depends on the artist's approach to pursuing revnue (ie: freeing themselves from the lables.) Another thing is ad-supported alone is not feasible; neither is selling T-shirts...As long as people still want to store mp3 files on their music players, there's no reason why people won't want to pay for them. (Only if their demands are met)
To mikebo: "I don't see flocks of people giving up on mainstream music."
Music is music, mainstream music is no sweeter than indie music; they just have more marketing behind them. If the same marketing opportunities that are provided to mainstream music can be accessed by indie musicians, people will discover that Indie music is actually worth listening to.
From what I've observed, YC would be the most enjoyable place to be, in comparison to others; but it depends on the type of person you are, and what exactly you are looking for.
You're right, Artists still feel they have to sign "that" contract, in order to make it BIG. This is because of the misconception the music industry has put out there, knowing too well that artists will fall for it.
Good analogy on comparing record labels to VC firms, but I believe one is still more evil-er than the other.
"I think most artists simply want to know the easiest quickest way to make money for themselves doing what they enjoy doing (the smart ones anyway). Fans just want a powerful escape."
It has been proven time and time again that fans will pay for music, if the price is right, and their demands are met.
I think artists both want to get paid, and ALSO reach more fans that enjoy their music.
Copyright needs to be reconsidered, especially in this ever changing digital world we live where, copies can be made in the blink of an eye.
On the other hand, Record Labels are evil. They continue to rip off artists by claiming ownership of (the artist's work) through copyright, while giving the 'Content Creators' very little.
"No one will ever be as excited about your [product, service, business] as you are."
This is so true. It is sometimes very hard for you to transfer the excitement of your idea or product onto others. That's why it's important to find co-founders that 'share' your vision, or you might risk loosing interest in own project yourself.
My start up idea doesn't have anything to do with the Record labels, but it does have everything to do with bringing artists and fans together, and allowing artists to control their own careers instead of signing their souls away to record labels.
I plan to differentiate myself from other music startups by NOT having anything to do with the 4 big labels or their music, but instead bring new talents to light!
I used to be a local music producer, and most of the people around me are musicians.
I don't just have a random idea, I really want to dedicate my life time to music, and solving this problem. I believe if artists and fans are brought together, we can reduce piracy, and promote creativity in the music industry.
I mean a hacker that understands the current problem facing the music industry today. (eg: Piracy, declining music sales...etc. Someone that has an interest in solving these problems)
OMG, I've been battling this issue too, especially in regards to the music industry.
For now, it is still unclear how customers can safely and conveniently pay for digital goods, without credit/debit cards; especially now we are not in a digital currency world.
But these are all interesting models you've posted here.
But, just by looking at the homepage, It could be difficult for a NEW user to understand what's actually going on, especially pertaining to the description where you say "decide the price"
POST YOUR QUESTION
1. Type your question
2. Decide the price*
3. Choose the best answer
I'd also suggest that the tutors themselves be verified some way or the other, because anyone can claim to be an expert.
I really do like this, because you are trying to please TWO user groups; Users (students/'askers') and Tutors. That can always be a challenge.
I have to disagree with some portions of this article. Working as a musician is waaay different from working at a corporate sweat shop. This whole "work ethic" rant is a little misleading, especially pertaining to music.
let's keep in mind that Spotify is still Europe-only for now, But...
If someone with as much world-wide fame as Lady Gaga could get this much for a million plays, then what about the less known artist(s)?
And who actually gets to see and keep this $167?...RIAA bosses, Label Bosses, or Lady Gaga
Great post BTW!