subject: Why You Should Have Download Cards [print this page] The download card is a small cardboard or plastic card that is the size of an ID and is a popular solution for artists who sell digital media. The download card pretty much resembles a standard phone or gaming card. Each download card has a unique redemption code on the back which fans will use in downloading songs, albums, or music videos in the artist's website. The artist has complete control of the prices, the number of songs, expiration date, and other specifics.
The beautiful thing about download cards is that they can be customized. They can be printed with the band's logo, they can come in 3D paper, and they can come in different shapes and sizes. This gives the artists an additional avenue for their creativity. Some bands even put a hole on the download cards and attach a silver chain so the card becomes a keychain or a necklace. Many kids love collecting download cards! I've seen a lot of guys who have download cards as many as playing cards.
Download cards are a major hit at concerts because young kids now prefer digital-much cheaper than CDs or vinyl and not as bulky on the pockets. It is one way for artists to increase their revenue. If they cannot sell plenty of CDs and vinyl, then maybe their audience is the digital youngsters who are scrimping and saving every penny from their allowance just to watch a live concert. They should cater to their needs, too. That is still a good (and probably large) market that has to be tapped. Make CDs, make vinyl, make box sets, but don't' shrug off download cards.
