Artists Raise Money and Awareness with 1% for the Planet Album
1% for the Planet, a global network of 1,200 companies that donate 1% of annual sales to environmental causes, has released a digital music compilation: 1% for the Planet: The Music, Vol. 1, the world’s first music compilation dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations working to create a healthy planet. The album aims to accelerate the 1% movement by engaging more people and inspiring more companies to join.
In early January the album hit #1 on Amazon.com’s MP3 download chart, and broke into the top 50 on iTunes’ bestselling album list. Featuring more than forty tracks for only $9.99, the album can be found on the 1% music web site, and on all major music download sites.
More than 40 musicians have donated music to the album and are featured on the 1% music site. Leading artists, including Jack Johnson, Jackson Browne, and Grace Potter, gave rare and exclusive tracks. “The artists are amazing. They have been incredibly supportive of the project from the beginning, and their passion is infectious. Fans hear the artists’ music and are inspired to get involved themselves” says Melody Grote, VP of Marketing and Acquisitions, 1%.
In the spirit of reducing waste generated from the distribution and disposal of traditional CDs, the album is an all-digital release. At the new 1% music web site, fans can sample and buy the music, see what the artists are saying about their involvement in the cause, and spread the word online. Supporters can visit the site to get a web badge to display on their site or blog, or use social media tools like Facebook and Twitter to spread the word.
Though the release is all-digital, the compilation is also available to offline purchasers. With a greater number of consumers buying CDs only to store them after they’ve saved the music digitally, 1% for the Planet offers consumers and retailers a more earth-friendly option in purchasing music. Eco friendly download cards allow the music to be merchandised in retail stores alongside regular CDs. The download card evokes the look and feel of a CD but is made entirely of recycled paper. Consumers purchase the download card with an enclosed access code which allows them to download the music. The new format is available now to retailers worldwide.
“1% for the Planet: The Music, Vol. 1 is an easy way to make a difference for anyone who loves good music,” says Grote. “Listeners can share the music online with their friends, family and colleagues in order to exponentially increase giving to the environment.”
Details on all 41 tracks can be found at music.onepercentfortheplanet.org.
