Bandcamp
Contents
Features
Multi-format Downloads
Bandcamp requires that the artist upload their music in lossless formats. This way they can provide the option of multiple lossy formats (e.g. MP3, AAC) to the downloader. The effect of providing a myriad of formats for download is that people with varying preferences will have the opportunity to make a purchase.
Flexible Pricing
One of the defining features of the Bandcamp service is the "Name-your-price" downloads, which allows the artist to give away music for free, set a fixed price or allow the buyer to choose their own price.
Creative Commons
Bandcamp allows each artist to choose whichever licensing options suit their preferences best, and these include Creative Commons licenses. In 2009 they increased the number of licensing options to the amount available today.
Ethical Aspects
Bandcamp assists artists in getting exposure that they would've otherwise had to obtain by creating their own pages or hosting somewhere else. Creating a streamlined service by which someone can buy and sell media, as well as listen to it, assists in making those things more accessible. While Bandcamp is not the only company that offers these types of services, Bandcamp and its peers are contributing to a music consumption culture free of filtering.
Bandcamp also serves as an outlet for artists who prefer to release their music under a Creative Commons license. It also educates artists who are unsure by giving them a summary of the aspects of each licensing choice as well as links for more detailed explanations. The site also allows an artist to choose the more well-known 'All Rights Reserved' licensing for those who want the most intellectual property protection.
