[show_avatar email=jess@iwenttoashow.com align=left avatar_size=62] Recently, a large number of musicians, photographers, and other artists have been using Kickstarter as a way to generate funds for independent projects and to connect with fans more personally. In essence, Kickstarter is a website that allows pledging to a particular artist’s venture. Fans, in turn, receive access to downloads, merchandise, advance copies of albums, and other perks that might not be available otherwise. If said artist reaches their goal, pledges are cashed in, art is made/distributed/etc., and the world is left a bit more beautiful than before.

For example, indie rocker Jenny Owen Youngs turned heads when she raised over $20,000 (her goal) in 28 hours for her new upcoming album (which this author eagerly awaits). Jenny’s campaign ended recently, and it rode into the sunset to the tune of $38,543.00 and 646 supporters. That, my friends, is how to use the Interwebs. 

Photo: Jenny Owen Youngs playing at 3rd & Lindsley in Nashville earlier this year.

Here in St. Louis, singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Beth Bombara is using Kickstarter to fund the pressing and release of her first full-length album, on vinyl no less. Beth sat down with a camera, Chris Bay of KDHX, Jeremy Miller of The Mud House, and Mike Glodeck of Foam as they talked about the advantages of owning and playing vinyl in an increasingly digitized world.

Bombara performing as part of Cassie Morgan & the Lonely Pine, opening for Mumford & Sons. Photo credit: Kate McDaniel

Kickstarter is just one more way musicians are taking advantage of modern technology in an effort to preserve more traditional means of production.  If you’re a local artist of any kind, what are some ways you’ve employed or are currently employing to support your creative ventures?  We’re interested in hearing from you.