Sturtz (photo from sturtzmusic.com)
As creatives, it’s no surprise that musicians are often multi-talented, masters not only of their particular instruments or voices but also of other art forms, like painting or jewelry making. This can be a real boon for crowdfunders, as these products are the kind of highly personalized backer perks that can bring in high donations. After all, who wouldn’t want to have a birdhouse built by their favorite roots musician? This month, I’m highlighting campaigns from three artists who offer handmade items as backer perks.
Sturtz – Second Album (click here to view campaign)
The band Sturtz succeeds through the differing backgrounds of its members. From classical to indie rock to jazz, the band members’ influences come together to create a smooth sound that is heavy on the tight harmonies. The band has released one album previously, and it was featured on NPR’s All Songs Considered. Now they’re working with producer Ben Wysocki (The Fray) to prepare their second album for release. For their $34,000 Kickstarter campaign, Sturtz is offering a wide variety of backer perks. The album is available for preorder in digital, CD, and vinyl formats. You can also get the “Sturtz Dirt” package of amusing videos and images from members of the band, tickets to a pre-release listening party, and a chance to have a karaoke night with Andrew Sturtz. But the most interesting perk is what they call the “Homesteader Package,” which contains a handmade candle, coffee, and grain flour, all made, roasted, or milled by members of the band.
Starling – Debut Album (click here to view campaign)
Starling began as a musical duo in 2019, but Mo Brachfield and Jared Kirkpatrick have been friends since they met at a music camp in 2012. Brought together by their love of fiddle music, the pair has toured the past five years playing contra dances and house shows. Now they’re ready to record a debut album featuring some of their favorite traditionals and some original songs in the contra dance tradition. With a $7,000 Kickstarter goal, they are offering some unique backer perks. You can get a tunebook of some of their original songs, a private music lesson, an original jig or reel composed for you, and a house concert. For those looking for a craftier option, a $75 pledge will get you a handmade mug or bowl from Mo’s home pottery studio.
Janice Burns and Jon Doran – Holiday Album (click here to view campaign)
Considering it’s sweltering outside, it’s hard to say it’s beginning to look at all like Christmas, but in the world of crowdfunding, it’s actually the tail end of the holiday season as artists rush to get campaigns finished and records recorded, mastered, and released by November, when holiday music is in demand. Burns and Doran previously released one non-holiday record, which reached the UK folk charts and received airplay on BBC Radio. Now they’ve got a $10,000 Kickstarter goal to produce and release their first Christmas album. To reach that goal, they are offering an array of backer perks that include a handmade lino print from Janice, a custom song, a house concert, and a Christmas tree ornament made by Jon.
