Bandcamp launched in 2008 and quickly became the go-to platform for independent musicians who wanted to sell music directly to fans. Unlike streaming-first platforms, Bandcamp’s model centers on purchases — fans pay for albums, tracks, and merchandise, and artists keep the lion’s share of every sale.
The revenue split is straightforward: artists get 82% on digital sales and 90% on merch after payment processing fees. There’s no gatekeeping — anyone can set up a Bandcamp page and start selling within minutes. Artists set their own prices, and many offer “name your price” options that let fans pay more than the minimum.
Bandcamp Friday became a cultural institution during the pandemic. On the first Friday of each month, the platform waived its revenue share entirely, sending 100% of sales directly to artists. These events generated tens of millions of dollars for independent musicians.
Epic Games acquired Bandcamp in 2022, which worried many in the indie music community. Those concerns proved partially founded when Epic sold the company to Songtradr in 2023, resulting in significant layoffs. Despite the ownership turbulence, the platform’s core mission has remained intact.
Bandcamp’s editorial team publishes daily articles highlighting new releases across every genre imaginable. The platform’s recommendation engine surfaces music based on what fans actually buy, not just what they stream. For artists who want a direct-to-fan relationship without algorithmic middlemen, Bandcamp remains one of the most important platforms in music.
