How to Sell MP3's Online

Selling your music is another one of the rewards for musicians doing what you love. Online MP3s sales expand your fan base and attract more people to concerts and other live performances. Individual digital MP3 sales can also increase your CD sales both online and off.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. Record a quality MP3, and remember that 192k is almost CD quality. MP3s recorded at a lower rate than this will sound muddy and distorted. Price your MP3 competitively.

2. Secure your MP3 against music piracy. This problem plagues the major labels, as well as independent publishers. Spend wisely to protect your music. MP3Guard is an example of a program that encrypts your MP3 and prevents consumers from copying it. You'll find MP3Guard at the Exefind website. (See link in Resources.)

3. Research websites where your MP3 can be sold. Not only do you want to find a website that provides a number of good services for musicians, you want one that consumers can find easily. Browse websites like SoundClick, where you can market your MP3, post a video and even sell digital albums.

4. Market MP3 both online and off line. Include websites on your business and personal stationary, press releases and all marketing materials. Brainstorm new ways to reach consumers. Purchase and attach a magnetic sign to your car that displays your website, so you can advertise all over town.

5. Expand your Internet marketing program to non-musical websites. The Lulu website is a good example. Musicians can sell individual MP3, digital albums and CDs there.

Resources

• Secure your MP3s with MP3Guard from Exefind website.
• Sell MP3s at musician websites like Soundclick.
• Sell MP3s at non-musician websites like Lulu's.