OVERVIEW: YOU, ME & OUR “FAN-FUNDED RECORD LABEL”
Now through November 2010, I’m teaming up with IndieGoGo.com to try to raise $5,000. I’m going to need your help to make this happen the RIGHT way. With your support, I’ll be able to release a full-length debut CD that will exceed your expectations, be worthy of your time and attention, and garner the success it deserves. All you have to do is get on board to pre-purchase the CD at whatever perks level makes sense for you.

CLICK to view Shana’s full CD project narrative

WHY AM I DOING THIS?
It’s simple: the more I perform, the more folks are demanding (yes, demanding) a CD. I’m at the point where saying, “I don’t have one…yet!” is no longer acceptable. Fans want a CD, either hard-copy or digitally. I want to be able to send you home with a little Shana to plug into your car or download, so you can enjoy whenever you want to. It’s high time.

CLICK to hear Shana’s MUSIC

JUST WHO IS SHANA TUCKER?
…and why should you care? Well, I’m an independent, unsigned artist: “ChamberSoul” cellist, singer-songwriter and guitar player. My music is a unique blend of acoustic, jazz-influenced pop and soulful, contemporary folk. Too unique, in fact, to keep to myself (which is why we’re here talking about this project).

CLICK for Shana’s BIO or SCHEDULE

WHAT’S THE PLAN?
I already have a considerable amount of personal funds lined up to throw into the kitty…almost every gig payment goes back into this project. Here’s where we are on the project timeline:
Recording: Studio sessions are well underway; I’m using a beautiful, peaceful spot in Chapel Hill, NC and a best-kept secret in the middle of Greensboro, NC. I’m getting an incredible rate on the studio time; compensating my awesome musicians will total around $3000.
Mixing: Debut CD has GOT to sound right…designating about $1500 for the capturing of all the subtle nuances that make music Music, to take place mid-October.
Mastering: I plan to master the album at the end of October, which will run close to $500.
CD Manufacturing/Packaging: Beautiful packaging is a must for this run of 1000. Graphic design has been gifted, but the packaing is going to be close to $2000.
I’m not including publicity/marketing or touring in this campaign, but things are in the works to ensure proper visibility and awareness!

HOW YOU CAN HELP
You…and your incredible Sphere of Influence. As you know, word of mouth is the most effective marketing tool. The best thing is that your referral is a gift that keeps on giving! Every contribution has choice rewards attached to it. Digital downloads, advanced copies of the album (brag to your friends that you heard it before it hit the stores!) ringtones, special request covers dedicated to you, your name in the CD liner credits…so many levels to choose from! The more you give, the more you and your friends will get in return!

CLICK to view GIFT OPTIONS

THIS IS GOOD…CAN IT POSSIBLY GET BETTER?
If we reach the $5000 goal, I will donate TEN PERCENT (10%) of album sales for an entire year to 3 arts organizations that are dear to my heart: Project MAP, an outstanding arts-in-education initiative in Durham, NC; the Salim Hylton Memorial Scholarship Fund, which sends young visual artists to college to pursue their dreams; and Community Music School, a program where low-income families can receive private music lessons for their rising stars…practically free. That’s my personal pledge to you. Supporting young artists in under-served communities is a huge deal to me. Talent and creativity is everywhere…we have a duty to encourage young artists whenever we can. Together, let’s make this CD project happen AND change young artists’ lives!*

READY? LET’S DO THIS!
Thanks so much for your support, and for telling everyone you know about what WE are going to accomplish with our Fan-Funded Record Label! Let’s get to raising these funds, sowing community seeds and moving musical mountains!

CLICK to FUND SHANA’S CD PROJECT NOW

photo credit: Eileen Francis