this seems absurd to me. i just saw someone on facebook posting how they needed $2,500 to do their first tour and it was a big deal cos the person in question needs to try and sell records in order break even with their label. well, maybe i am old and cynical here, but that’s the whole point of putting a record out. you play shows to promote it and then people buy it if they like your show or what they have heard of you or your band. i wish someone would start a kickstarter so i can pay my rent, cos if i dont give my landlord money i wont be able to live here! oh no! i think kickstarter is a great thing when used for good projects or interesting and fun ideas - my friend wes asked for a small amount of money for help promoting an excellent one man show recently and those extra funds made it a resouding success, giving him the opportunity i am sure to grow as an artist - but to get money to go on tour? and $2,500?! so basically they are wanting to cover gas, hotels, small guarantees, food etc. but thats why you work hard to play good shows to pay for these things. pretty sure black flag didnt ask for money from their friends to go on tour. i know i never asked for a penny and i have managed to break even and - shock - even make money off playing shows. i just think it distorts the whole idea of what being a musician at a grass roots level is about, and what kicktarter is for. heck, i may even do one myself on day for my little label. but thats about art and not commerce. going on tour is a job and not a paid vacation.