JimHarrington wrote:
We wanted to give you an update about where we stand with the Sound Choice® ADVANCE program.
Despite the extension we provided, we are still well short of the minimum number of reservations required in order to justify making a new Digital Album, and we aren't likely to reach the goal. We're keeping the campaign open just in case.
Additionally, while we are moving steadily through the process of new blanket licenses with the major publishers (and we have been in discussions about specific songs with independents), our licensing has not progressed to the point where we feel comfortable identifying potential new tracks.
So, here's what we're going to do, assuming we don't hit the minimum of 320 reservations by the Friday deadline.
1) We are still committed to making new music. Our production timeline is getting stretched out for reasons beyond our control (licensing, which is always an issue).
2) Assuming we can make the numbers work, we'll be putting some of our own money into the production process, but not until we've got licensing nailed down.
3) We're planning a crowdfunding campaign that we expect to kick off next month, with at least some of the proceeds going toward new production. We're planning to have some cool premiums in return for contributions--more on that later.
4) Most importantly, since we won't be moving forward with the project on the contract terms, everyone who bought in will be entitled to a refund.
On that last point, however, there's a twist. If you want a refund, you'll get it, no questions asked. But if you don't mind letting your money ride for a little while, we'll give you 12 credits toward future songs if you forego your refund (that's assuming our credit system is 1 credit per track; if it's something else, you'll get the equivalent). Those credits will never expire. And if you change your mind at any point before we announce final plans for the start of actual production--and we'll give you a heads-up when that happens--you can still request a refund, no questions asked.
Since we're planning for tracks to cost about $3 each, getting them for $2.50 will be a bargain.
We'll post more details once the campaign is officially over, along with a link for you to make an election as to what you'd like--a refund or 12 credits per reservation.
Despite the extension we provided, we are still well short of the minimum number of reservations required in order to justify making a new Digital Album, and we aren't likely to reach the goal. We're keeping the campaign open just in case.
Additionally, while we are moving steadily through the process of new blanket licenses with the major publishers (and we have been in discussions about specific songs with independents), our licensing has not progressed to the point where we feel comfortable identifying potential new tracks.
So, here's what we're going to do, assuming we don't hit the minimum of 320 reservations by the Friday deadline.
1) We are still committed to making new music. Our production timeline is getting stretched out for reasons beyond our control (licensing, which is always an issue).
2) Assuming we can make the numbers work, we'll be putting some of our own money into the production process, but not until we've got licensing nailed down.
3) We're planning a crowdfunding campaign that we expect to kick off next month, with at least some of the proceeds going toward new production. We're planning to have some cool premiums in return for contributions--more on that later.
4) Most importantly, since we won't be moving forward with the project on the contract terms, everyone who bought in will be entitled to a refund.
On that last point, however, there's a twist. If you want a refund, you'll get it, no questions asked. But if you don't mind letting your money ride for a little while, we'll give you 12 credits toward future songs if you forego your refund (that's assuming our credit system is 1 credit per track; if it's something else, you'll get the equivalent). Those credits will never expire. And if you change your mind at any point before we announce final plans for the start of actual production--and we'll give you a heads-up when that happens--you can still request a refund, no questions asked.
Since we're planning for tracks to cost about $3 each, getting them for $2.50 will be a bargain.
We'll post more details once the campaign is officially over, along with a link for you to make an election as to what you'd like--a refund or 12 credits per reservation.
This is a good post, despite the bad news...
You are willing to throw your money behind the project, and that give me some confidence about eventually seeing some product from you.
A complete refund plan that gives people who kicked in options. Good to quiet some people down.
The crowd funding idea is worth a shot... I do believe you need to reach your market better. I wasn't even aware you've returned as SC/PEP until recently. I'm sure others out there are in the same place as I was.
$3.00 for a track isn't bad. Worth it to people who cherry pick, a bit expensive for people who want the entire CD. Might I suggest something like what KaraokeDownloads has, a tier system with the more credits you buy, the more discount the tracks are?
Good luck, and looking forward to seeing some product
(Edited: I really need coffee somedays)
