Free Music Downloads are Boon to Local Bands

Side Dish is representative of thousands of independent bands that face the challenge of getting their music heard by the right people.

(PRWEB) October 19, 2004 -- Its all about getting the music to the people," according to Kent Vorkink, manager of Utah-based rock band Side Dish. Vorkink added that the Internet is rapidly changing the way that music is being distributed. Bands are no longer at the mercy of record company politics."

Side Dish is representative of thousands of "local" bands that toil in relative anonymity throughout the world. They have played over 60 shows in Utah since forming in 2001 and have recently self-released an album entitled "Truth or Dare." The band made a decision that they wanted people everywhere to have access to their music more than they wanted fame or fortune. They took their most popular song, Maracas, a fast-paced "rock with horns" number with a Latin flair, and made it available on their website (http://www.sidedishband.com) as a free mp3 download. Ever looking to improve their fan base, Side Dish was seeking an additional avenue to distribute Maracas.

"There are so many great distribution channels for Side Dish such as PureVolume.com, Download.com, SoundClick.com, and Garageband.com," Vorkink states. "Maracas is listed right next to songs from more well-known performers on all of those sites. We believe our band is as good, if not better, than many of the bands that are currently on the radio. Sites like these allow our music to be heard and downloaded to a much larger audience than we would have been able to reach on our own."

By providing free downloads of Maracas on the various websites, Side Dish is hoping to increase sales of their new full-length album, "Truth or Dare", which can be purchased via their website for $6. "We can sell our CD for less because we don't have to factor in massive promotional costs and record company overhead," Vorkink said. "We want people to visit our site, post a review of Maracas, vote for their favorite Side Dish song, and get to know the band by viewing photos and videos."

The increasing accessibility to free music and band information via the Internet is opening up the door of opportunity for Side Dish and other "local" bands to take their show on the road, without ever leaving home. Only time will tell how much of an impact free mp3 downloads will have on the record companies. But for now, reach for your mouse instead of a dial and get ready to rock!

Website: http://www.SideDishBand.com

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