PreOrders


Sleeves, Jackets & Other Supplies

Circle Stickers

Hole Punch

Artwork Templets




Great Lake Records: Empowering Independent Bands

At Great Lake Records, we know that independent bands often face significant financial hurdles. Our preorder system not only helps artists secure funding for their projects but also gauges demand for their music, creating a sustainable path to success.

Why Preorders Matter

  1. Upfront Funding: Preorders enable fans to support artists directly, providing crucial funds for production costs.
  2. Demand Insights: By tracking preorders, bands can better determine how many records to produce, reducing the risk of overstock.
  3. Community Building: Preorders generate excitement and foster a sense of community, with exclusive incentives like limited editions and merchandise.

Importance of Artwork for Preorders

  • Visual Appeal: Striking artwork captures fans' attention and embodies the artist's vision.
  • Brand Identity: Consistent branding strengthens your connection with your audience.
  • Marketing Tool: Leverage your artwork across social media and newsletters to build buzz.
  • Exclusive Content: Offer sneak peeks or limited editions to motivate fans to preorder.


Get Started with Your Preorder Campaign

Requirements for Local West Michigan Bands:

  1. Song Submission: Check our FAQ for details.
  2. Album Art: 3.5" circle center label with a center hole of .3125".
  3. Band Bio: 25-100 words.
  4. Band Logo
  5. High-Resolution Band Photo.
  6. Social Media Preorder Press Kit: Include preorder artwork, instructions, and social media handles for promotion.
  7. Billing Information: Provide details for payment.
  8. Drop-Off Option: Bands can drop off their artwork, jackets, labels, and any other preorder items. This ensures everything is ready for shipping when fans place their orders.

Important Preorder Information

  • Exclusive to Our Website: All preorders are processed through our official website for a streamlined experience.
  • Priceing Structure: Pricing is open to negotiation and will be tailored on a case-by-case basis to meet specific needs.
  • Payment Structure: Bands will receive payment after records have shipped to fans; records are not sent to the bands.
  • Successful Campaigns: Bands will receive one additional artist copy for their efforts.

Shipping Details

Preorders will be shipped via Media Mail, a cost-effective option for sending records and media. This keeps shipping costs lower for both artists and fans.

DIY Approach: Save Costs and Customize

Embracing a DIY approach can significantly reduce costs, allowing you to allocate more resources to your project. Here are some tips:

  • Graphic Design: Use tools like Canva or Adobe Spark to create your artwork, saving on designer fees and customizing your branding.
  • Custom Artwork Options: Choose the number of designs you want—stickers, labels, jackets—providing flexibility to control costs while personalizing your release.
  • DIY: local print shops, silkscreen, home printer, hand made, painted, recycled.

Cost Breakdown for 7" Records

You can adjust your order based on album length and desired designs:

7" Records:

  • Single Side: $10.99 each
  • Double Sided: $19.99 each
  • Material Options: Clear or Black

Artwork:

  • Die Cut Center Label Sticker (3.5"):
  • Jacket Stickers (7" x 7"):
  • Engraved Logos
    • $9.99 each

Jackets:

  • Jackets
  • Inner Slevees 
  • Outer Poly Sleeves

Shipping:

  • 7" Vinyl Mailer
  • Media Mail

Payout:

Payments will be issued via check.