'Cd Baby' Independent Music Distribution Makes Everyone Happy
Katie Cordrey — March 26, 2009 — Art & Design
CD Baby claims that it is, “a little online record store that sells albums by independent musicians.” In fact, it is one of the largest independent music sellers on the Internet.
Located in Portland, Oregon, the staff takes a great deal of pride in the personal touch. They only sell music that comes directly from musicians. They don’t kick artists out of their catalog if the artist doesn’t make a lot of sales.
When you purchase from CD Baby, you get a great little confirmation email that will make your day - if you like to laugh.
Founded by Derek Sivers in 1998, the company was purchased, along with Host Baby, a musician-friendly web hosting site, by fellow distributor and Partner, Disc Makers in August 2008.
Several musicians that I know market through CD Baby. It’s an arrangement that’s good for the performing artist, the customer, and for independent music.
Located in Portland, Oregon, the staff takes a great deal of pride in the personal touch. They only sell music that comes directly from musicians. They don’t kick artists out of their catalog if the artist doesn’t make a lot of sales.
When you purchase from CD Baby, you get a great little confirmation email that will make your day - if you like to laugh.
Founded by Derek Sivers in 1998, the company was purchased, along with Host Baby, a musician-friendly web hosting site, by fellow distributor and Partner, Disc Makers in August 2008.
Several musicians that I know market through CD Baby. It’s an arrangement that’s good for the performing artist, the customer, and for independent music.
Trend Themes
1. Grassroots Music Marketing - CD Baby's success shows the potential for independent musicians to build their fanbase through direct online sales and personal connections with their audience.
2. Independent Music Distribution - The rise of CD Baby suggests that independent music distribution companies can succeed by providing a platform for artists to sell their music directly to fans.
3. Artist-friendly Music Platforms - CD Baby's business model of not penalizing artists who don't make a lot of sales presents an opportunity for artist-friendly music platforms to offer a more supportive environment for independent musicians.
Industry Implications
1. Music Distribution - The success of CD Baby indicates a growing market for independent music distribution online and the need for more platforms to support musicians.
2. Online Music Retail - CD Baby's direct-to-fan sales approach highlights the potential of online music retail for independent artists with a loyal following.
3. Artist Services - The acquisition of CD Baby by Disc Makers presents an opportunity for artist services companies to expand their offerings and provide a more holistic approach to supporting independent musicians.
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