Bandcamp has announced it will be holding more Bandcamp Fridays after the events have earned artists over $120m.

Bandcamp Fridays are returning in 2024, continuing their role as a crucial financial lifeline for independent musicians. Originally launched in March 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, these events have since generated over $120 million for artists. On Bandcamp Fridays, the platform waives its revenue share, allowing musicians to keep 100% of their sales, a rare and valuable opportunity in today’s music industry.

Bandcamp has announced three more Bandcamp Friday events in 2024. The next event will take place on September 6th, with the next two taking place on October 4th and December 6th. You can keep an eye on when Bandcamp Fridays are taking place via isitbandcampfriday.com.

For independent artists, this is more than just a day of increased revenue. It’s a chance to build deeper connections with their audience. Fans are more inclined to make purchases on these days, knowing that their money goes directly to the artists they support. This direct connection fosters a sense of community and loyalty, which can be vital for musicians trying to make a living without the backing of a major label.

The success of Bandcamp Fridays highlights the shifting dynamics in the music industry, where independent artists are increasingly relying on direct-to-fan sales. By participating in these events, musicians can not only boost their income but also increase their visibility on the platform. Bandcamp often promotes these events heavily, giving artists a chance to reach new listeners who are specifically looking to support musicians during these times.

Tips for nailing Bandcamp Fridays

Bandcamp has offered some advice to artists on how to get the most out of Bandcamp Fridays.

  1. Post your music in the days before Bandcamp Friday, so that you don’t get lost in the shuffle. Your music will already be featured in our search and discovery tools, and the viral nature of our fan community will be in effect.
  2. On Bandcamp Fridays, fans are on the lookout for special items like limited colorway vinyl, signed merch, warehouse finds, and one-off releases including demo tracks and between-album singles.
  3. Try using the “Name Your Price” feature on Bandcamp Fridays, when fans are feeling even more generous than usual. You might also consider doing a flash sale, or discounting your catalog for the day to attract new fans for your next new release.
  4. Ask your fans on social media to follow you on Bandcamp, so that when you announce special releases, they’re automatically updated and will be first to know.

For independent artists, the return of Bandcamp Fridays is a reminder of the power of community support in the digital age. It’s an opportunity to engage directly with fans, grow their audience, and, crucially, keep more of the money they earn from their art. As the music industry continues to evolve, initiatives like Bandcamp Fridays show that there are still ways for independent musicians to thrive, even in a crowded marketplace.