Hey All, wanted to put out this idea for member feedback. Brian would have to OK this first, of course. Anyways, here's the idea (UPDATED):
  • Funding the JPF Music Awards is expensive and we need to support Brian's efforts.
  • So, let's create two themed compilation albums that feature 20 songs each, contributed by JPF members (1 song per member).
  • Mixing/Mastering contributed by JPF sponsors or experienced members.
  • These two albums would be used as exchange merchandise on crowdfunding site Kickstarter, to help raise funds for the JPF Music Awards e.g. One regular strategy used by bands successfully funded at kickstarter is to offer placing the crowdfunder's name in the album notes, along with a tangible copy of the album.
Say for example that on Kickstarter, the offers to crowdfunders are:
  • For USD20, you get your name listed on one of the compilation albums + a tangible CD.
  • For USD35, you get your name listed on both the compilation
  • albums + tangible CDs of the albums.
  • For USD50, you get your name listed on both the compilation albums + tangible CDs of the albums + a JPF t-shirt.
  • For USD100, you get your name listed on both the compilation albums + tangible CDs of the albums + a JPF t-shirt + a guaranteed ticket to the awards show.
JPF has around 50,000 members, past and present. If 10% of members invest in the USD20 offer, that's 5,000 x $20 = $100,000.
  • Also place these two albums for sale on iTunes, CDbaby, etc. + limited edition tangible CDs, with funds raised going towards the costs of running JPF activities and the JPF Music Awards.
  • Songwriters agree to give all CD sales profits and mechanical song royalties to JPF, for running its activities and Music Awards event.
  • Publishing rights (minus mechanical rights) of the song remain with the contributing songwriter--the songwriter retains all performance, sync, special use (ringtones, etc.), and print royalties/licensing rights.
Here are some ideas for the two albums:

COMPILATION ALBUM 1: CHRISTMAS WITH JPFOLKS
Christmas-themed one, featuring 20 Christmas tunes by JPF members. It's too late for Xmas this year, but never too early to produce and make available for Christmas 2011. Rationale: most likely to sell, especially during Christmas holidays.

COMPILATION ALBUM 2: JPFOLKS SONGS OF HOPE
Hope-themed one, featuring 20 inspirational tunes by JPF members. Rationale: 2010 has been tough on everyone. The world really needs some hope and inspiration in 2011. I think an album with songs of hope is what people need right now.

I believe this idea is win-win for everyone--we raise funds for JPF and the JPF Music Awards while getting our music heard by a wider audience. If we're lucky, some of the songs might even get picked up for song placements. Remember: the publishing rights (minus mechanical rights) for each song remain with the contributing songwriter, meaning that if your song from one of these compilations ends up on TV, a movie, radio, or an advert, YOU get the full check for the performance royalties (make sure to register the song with your PRO).

Let's do this people! We already have the songs, we just need to pool them together! Let's show our support for Brian and JPF with our music.

Merry Christmas and God Bless smile ian