This site was created by Dr. Brian Felix’s Music Business II class at UNC Asheville in the spring of 2020. We are committed to creating a well-researched and useful resource for musicians and music business professionals as they navigate the Covid-19 era. Class Members: Joey Harrington, Quinn McKearney, Kayla McKinney, Frances Mehlenbacher, Dean Merritt, Jennifer Walls

How to Support Performing Artists During Coronavirus

With Coronavirus restricting gatherings, the performing artists are struggling to create ways to stay employed. Many music industry professionals have lost their main source of income due to the virus, but there are ways we can continue to support them through these hard times. 

Many artists are offering merchandise on their websites. Make sure if you want to purchase merch to do it directly from the artist, and not a second party seller, so you can make sure the artist is getting as much of that money as possible. 

Donate to local or national organizations that are offering relief to music industry professionals like Musicares.

Hold onto your rescheduled concert tickets. Don’t ask for refunds, and if you are able, buy tickets to future shows. Many artists are even getting creative by hosting virtual tour experiences that you can buy tickets to!

I know many of us are struggling financially, but one way you can help that is completely free is by continuing to support artists online. Share your favorite band on your social media and encourage others to stream their music. Watch their live streams and don’t hesitate to tip them through paypal or venmo links if you are able! Every little bit helps. 

Remember that while we are all stuck at home, it is the artists that are getting us through these hard times. 

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