We are kicking off a short series of Q&A's with the directors of a new generation of world music labels. We start with Jacob Edgar, president of Cumbancha:
1. How do you describe your label in five words or less?
Presenting exceptional music from around the globe (“from” and “the” don’t count as words, right?).
2. What’s different today about running a label than running one ten years ago?
Ten years ago there were things called record stores. Ten years ago, when you wanted to let customers know about something, you had to send it to them with bulk mail. Ten years ago, people were just starting to be overwhelmed...now they are completely inundated and can’t handle the information overload. Ten years ago it was possible to spend money on marketing and advertising because you knew that it would likely lead to sales, especially if you partnered with retailers.
3. What do you offer that artists can’t do themselves?
Experience, connections, knowledge, financial support, global distribution both physical and digital, a respected brand, knowing who to call and who not to call and how to get calls returned, a partner to brainstorm with, accounting, credit, legal advice, shipping and handling, invoicing, collecting, registering, partners around the world...
Luisa Maita, “Lero-Lero” coming out July 27th. Tony Q Rastafara, Indonesian reggae star. Something after August. More in the works, but can’t tell you yet.
5. When it comes to marketing strategies and tools, what are you most excited about these days?
Bandcamp, partnering with NGOs, media junkets to exotic locales, television, massive amounts of touring, digital EPs, Shazam, community outreach, direct to consumer sales, neighboring rights, collaborations with big stars.
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