Rock band in record crowdfunding success
AN ALTERNATIVE rock band from Bellville, Cape Town, has made history by raising more than R1-million from the public to fund the release of their new album directly to fans without any middle men.
“Passion. Liberation. Independence‚” was the mission statement by Fokofpolisiekar on its Thundafund appeal.
Fokof‚ known for their controversial lyrics‚ were feeling disenfranchised by the saturated South African music industry. Their last release was almost 11 years ago.
“It’s never been possible for us to release an album on our own. We are dependent on other people’s money. And dependent on an industry that is built on the exploitation of the artist‚” the band said.
The appeal resonated with music fans as Fokof has more than doubled their original campaign goal of R500 000.
On exceeding the target‚ the band was effusive in their appreciation: “Our goal was to raise the funds to independently release our first album in 11 years. With the support of various pledgers we reached our dream goal in nine days. This is amazing! A special thank you to everyone that backed us. We are now fully dedicated to writing and recording the best album possible. The new album will be released in October 2017. #FokofCrowdFunding.”
The five-man band has also promised to play a free show in Cape Town and one in Gauteng.
Thundafund said May 17 2017 was a milestone.
“A South African record was broken in Rewards-Based Crowdfunding with Thundafund.com‚” it said.
“It’s safe to say their legion of fans made it pour‚ raising over R1-million – a figure unprecedented for a South African based Rewards Crowdfunding platform.
Pre-orders of the album are available in digital download‚ CD and 12-inch vinyl. — TMG Digital