Published: Wednesday - December 26, 2007
Words by Donny Goines
Blog by Donny Goines (Photo: Don Michaels)
The other day I found myself putting together a gift bag to give away at a show. I put my two latest CDs, a sticker with my logo and a thank you card with a personal message from me inside the bags. People might think I'm nuts (I'm not in the best financial situation right now), but I understand the value of what I'm doing. I might be taking a loss financially, but what I will gain in return is priceless.
In this game, you shouldn't be afraid to give sh-- away. Whether it be music, promotional items, etc., you have to give before you can expect a return. You know what kills me? You ever see random people in your neighborhood or on Myspace selling their CDs? Now it's nothing wrong with selling your music (that's what your supposed to do), but here what bothers me about it. Why would I buy music from YOU??? Chances are I've never heard of you, never listened to your music, and really don't care if you're "on the grind" (that term should be banned in 08 lol). I'm not spending any money on something I have no knowledge of. Now if this same person would have given me a CD the first time I seen em, a sticker or poster or even a quick 16, maybe I would be more inclined to make a purchase the second time around.
Don't get me wrong, you have to be smart about it though. You don't want to give away everything and not be left with nothing. There is some logic behind it. For instance, a good rule of thumb would be to use percentages (for instance, if you print up a 1000 CDs, give away 10-15%, which would be 100-150 and sell the rest) or you could use some of your profits to invest in some free perks or giveaways for your supporters. Also you should give away things that may not benefit you monetarily at the moment, but will build interest in you and your music such as (like a mixtape, make one with the sole purpose of giving it away) or even verses and appearances (I've been rapping for two years straight and I just did my FIRST paid show recently). Basically you should really make an effort to give the people something on the arm if you can. It definitely will help you in the long run.
Who knows what people did with those gift bags? Maybe they threw the sh-- away when the left the club, maybe they went home and really enjoyed the gift, I can't call it. But you know what? When they see me again, they might just be willing to buy what I'm selling. Think about it.
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