Jim Alfredson

Hey Jim:

A question -- I know that in the past you have used google ads and at one time I recall that you embedded an Amazon link, but have you considered using other methods to obtain sponsorship for the site?

For example, reaching out to Mosaic to pay an amount to have a sponsored topic where it could post its weekly gazette.  When Mosaic was in financial trouble last year, members of this board did their part to purchase sets.  I would be surprised if there is another community on the internet--or anywhere else--which provided a stronger show of support.  

When Legacy announced the upcoming release in the new Miles Davis bootleg series, I found out here and purchased a set from Amazon UK based on information on the board.  It would make sense if Legacy could post an ad on the site. 

I just received an obscene shipment of SHM Blue Note cds from CD Japan based on the Blue Note SHM thread.  This is not the first time I have ordered from there based on information I received on the board.  It could sponsor a topic as well.  There are other labels and establishments (Squidco, Clean Feed, Downtown Music Gallery, etc.) that might consider paying to communicate on the site.

I am in the NYC area.  With the state of the music industry being what it is, many artists are crowdfunding releases.  However, a lot of them have issues finding an outlet that reaches interested listeners who might consider supporting their projects.  Some would pay a modest fee to sponsor a topic on their projects. 

I do not post a lot, but I do lurk and have been around since the BN board and the beginning of this one.  Like many of us, we appreciate the work you have done to keep this place running.  But more importantly, this is the best place on the internet to obtain information about the music and has the most knowledgeable users.  I literally can post a topic about any type of music on this site and receive an intelligent, knowledgeable reply during the course of a day.  That must be worth something. 

I am certain that several other members and I would be willing, free of charge, to reach out to potential sponsors.  I know advertising can be distracting, but If done properly with new board software, it could be a good addition. 

Best,

Sonnyhill