Plenty in life is free ~ but should it be? #authorRT #indie

Plenty in life is free ~ but should it be?

For a couple of years, a Craigslist ad and the response to it has been circulating social media sites. I've no idea if there’s any truth to it, but the short version goes something like this.

Ad: We are a small & casual restaurant looking for musicians to play in our restaurant to promote their work and sell their CD. This is not a paying job…but could eventually turn into a nightly event if we get positive response. …

Reply:  … I am a musician with a big house looking for a restauranteur to come to my house to promote his/her restaurant by making dinner for me and my friends. This is not a paying job…but could eventually turn into a nightly event if we get a positive response….

Being a fairly new indie author who cross promotes with indie bands, I see hard work given away FREE constantly—in the name of promotion and building a fan base.

Independent authors and bands are similar in this manner. It saddens me to see an artist or author put much time and energy into their work and then feel they have to give it away in the hopes of drawing paying fans.

No way would I say this is wrong—the twitter ‘Free Friday’ ritual is fun! However, permanent free indie work is becoming common—and even worse, expected.

I’m not frowning on the artists who go with free. I have utmost respect for those who take the indie path and the many hats they wear to get out there, get known, create a brand.

However, to consumers, I implore.

Respect the indies you love by supporting them in some way. Discover a free book or song you love? Buy another from the same artist. No money and that’s why you were browsing free? Write a wonderful review. Spread the word on your social media sites as well as word of mouth

Support Indie Authors & Musicians in whatever way you can.

It’s a new age. Unlike the past when you only heard or read what managed to get through traditional channels, you are exposed to it all and you are vital in the make it or break it stage of your favorite artists!

Looking for something free? Got you covered. (Bet you thought I didn't do free after that rant) My readers are my rock stars and for all you do, the Storm Cells series of novelettes will always be free to you. A Difficult Date is available if you don't have it yet, and June Bugs will be released next month! Here's where to sign up to stay informed.