Bandcamp has been acquired by Epic Games, the video game and software developer behind Fortnite, Gears of War, and other titles. The digital retail site and editorial platform announced the news today (March 2) in a letter on its website. “Bandcamp will keep operating as a standalone marketplace and music community, and I will continue to lead our team,” Bandcamp co-founder and CEO Ethan Diamond wrote in the statement.
He continued: “The products and services you depend on aren’t going anywhere, we’ll continue to build Bandcamp around our artists-first revenue model (where artists net an average of 82% of every sale), you’ll still have the same control over how you offer your music, Bandcamp Fridays will continue as planned, and the Daily will keep highlighting the diverse, amazing music on the site. However, behind the scenes we’re working with Epic to expand internationally and push development forward across Bandcamp, from basics like our album pages, mobile apps, merch tools, payment system, and search and discovery features, to newer initiatives like our vinyl pressing and live streaming services.”
On Twitter, Bandcamp Daily editor Edward J. Keyes clarified that the company’s editorial staff is expected to carry on, writing: “Hi everyone. I just want to reassure you: Bandcamp Daily is not going anywhere. Bandcamp Daily’s editorial staff isn’t going anywhere. Bandcamp Daily’s writing staff isn’t going anywhere. We’re going to keep doing what we do, and we’re looking forward to doing it.”
Steve Allison, Vice President and General Manager, Store at Epic Games, said in a statement: “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome the Bandcamp team to Epic Games. Bandcamp has built an incredible community and business where up and coming artists can succeed thanks to the direct support of their fans, with one of the best revenue models and terms in music. This aligns closely with Epic’s approach to supporting creators across all media and enabling them to connect directly with their fans.”
Bandcamp is joining Epic Games! Read more here: https://t.co/dvLEhURZYG pic.twitter.com/4t1MRvugmG
— bandcamp (@Bandcamp) March 2, 2022
