i’ll hopefully be looking in more depth later at the issue of “free” music and who’s really paying for it… but till then, 8 simple (and hopefully obvious) ways you can support your local music scene.
1. ATTEND SHOWS. actually attend the shows of the local bands you like. don’t just say you will, and never turn up… bands need moral support as well as financial!
2, BUY DIRECT. buy the records of the artists you like… from them direct, if possible. don’t forget – although convenient — buying an artist’s record online usually deprives them of up to 50% of what they would otherwise earn.
3. JUST BUY. buy the records of the artists you like. that’s right… BUY. never ever (however tempting) copy an artist’s CD without their permission or download it illegally.
4. TIP. bands earn next to nothing for playing shows… how about tipping them? seriously! we’re used to tipping in other service-related industries… why not? especially after a particularly awesome performance! or if you’re too shy to contemplate throwing money at your favorite band… offer to pay a few dollars more for their latest record… or entire back catalog (that’s been bundled with a t-shirt) for only $5!
5. DON’T BE TIGHT. that’s right,”tight” as in: mean, miserly, niggardly, close-fisted, parsimonious, penny-pinching, cheeseparing, Scroogelike, cheap and mingy etc! just because you know someone in the band doesn’t mean you should expect (or ask) to be put on the free list… how about showing them some love by stopping your whinging, shutting up and agreeing to pay the measly $3 at the door?! only a suggestion mind you… 
6. BE GENEROUS. if you’re in a band, offer to pay guest musicians on your next recording… don’t just ask (or assume) they can do it for free. even if you can’t afford industry rates (whatever they are!)… something is better than nothing!
7. THINK LOCAL. if you’re in a band, consider raising money on “Kickstarter” or “IndieGoGo” to pay a local, professional recording studio to operate the boards. not only will you end up with a much better sounding record… studios (as much as musicians) struggle to make a living doing what they love!
8. NO ROCKSTARS. if you’re in a band, treat your fans really, really well! take the time to get to know them, both online and in person after shows. buy them a beer every now and then! invite them to house parties. don’t just contact them when you want something. and please don’t be the guy that only ever tweets or updates his artist page with: “we’re gonna be rockin’ & kickin’ some at the [insert venue name] friday night! bring it people, bring it!!!”
