Maybe instead of "Google Week" on LawMeme it is alternative business models week.
Gordon Mohr's Gojomo: Let's just call it a "Chronolog" has an interesting post about a possible revenue stream for bands ... subscriptions (2002-12-12).
A yearly subscription might be just $30 and include:
- unlimited access to downloadable back-catalog
- unlimited access to downloadable new releases
- online newsletter
- access to special online events
- priority access to concert tickets
- a once-yearly collectible trinket confirming membership
- automatic annual rebilling until cancelled
I like this idea. There are a number of bands that I would subscribe to, since I essentially already do by buying every CD they put out. Most of these bands put out only 1 album a year for which I pay $17. Of those $17, of course, the artists themselves likely get a small percentage. I would be glad to pay $20-$30 year for access to the band's works, especially stuff that might not have made the album cut, such as live performances or alternates. I would also be happier to know that more of my money is supporting the band.
I think this would be particularly good for up and coming bands. For example, when I hear a band at a local hall that I like, I will frequently buy their CD (usually $10-$15) on impulse. However, if they don't get signed, I won't hear about them again. If they had a subscription available for a similar price to their CD (or heck, buy a subscription and get the CD for free), they might be able to keep me as a fan. Emails about their upcoming gigs is nice, but quickly find my bit bucket because they aren't playing near me (can someone help these bands target their email based on zip code?). Emails that notified me of new music would get my attention.