[Cover photo credit to Jesse Justice]
Talia Keys’ album From The Ashes has become the first release under the Buy Before You Stream initiative, a new model “designed to reconnect independent artists with their fans.” Fans can purchase exclusive vinyl editions of the album before it’s available on streaming platforms, allowing them “to own one-of-a-kind art, create lasting memories, and support a model where 100% of the profits go directly to the artists who make the music they love.”
This model offers fans “a more tangible, personal connection to the music, while providing the financial support artists need to thrive beyond the digital landscape.”
For Keys, this is part of her “ongoing fight for fair compensation in the music industry.” Keys has long advocated for a more sustainable and direct way for artists to engage with their fans. From The Ashes is a reflection of that activism, with Keys embracing the Buy Before You Stream model “as both a personal and professional stand.”
Keys says:
When fans buy vinyl, they’re holding onto something real, something that ties them to the music and to me as an artist. It’s a way to share a moment, to create lasting memories, and to give fans a piece of my journey. And at the same time, it’s a way for us, as independent artists, to keep doing what we love, without having to rely on the systems that often leave us behind.
From The Ashes is a record that was a year in the making, self-funded by Keys herself, and features collaborations with a string section and longtime collaborators. The album’s title reflects her “personal evolution—from anger and protest to gratitude and resilience.”
Launched by Midtopia, Buy Before You Stream is a “community-driven initiative that enables fans to purchase exclusive vinyl editions of albums directly from the artist before they hit streaming platforms.” The initiative works by offering 0% micro-loans to artists to fund vinyl production, helping artists cover the upfront costs of vinyl production, while “ensuring they can maintain full control over their work and generate meaningful income from physical sales.” Additionally, Buy Before You Stream fosters collaboration with independent record stores through exclusive album drops and events.
Third Man Pressing serves as the exclusive vinyl manufacturing partner for Buy Before You Stream, “ensuring high-quality, meticulously crafted vinyl editions that offer a lasting connection between artists and their fans.” The partnership with Third Man Pressing, a boutique vinyl production facility, ensures that fans receive an experience that goes beyond digital, connecting them directly with the artistry behind each record.
Jessie Hartke, CEO of Midtopia says:
We believe in the power of true ownership, of creating an experience that brings artists and fans back together in a way that’s not dictated by algorithms. With Buy Before You Stream, we’re offering artists the ability to directly connect with their fans and ensure they are paid fairly for their work. It’s about creating an ecosystem where everyone thrives.
