Hi! I'm Mia.
I'm making a record.
I need your help.
We are raising $20,000* in 30 days to record my next album, Magicians Never Tell.
*I'd have to make about 10,745 balloon animals to get to that point. And by then, my fingers probably wouldn't be able to play guitar too well.
I'm an independent singer-songwriter. I'm not signed to a label. You can read more about me and my crazy, wonderful day jobs by scrolling down to "About Me(a)!"
Neilson Hubbard, well-respected Nashville producer, is scheduled to record the album this spring. He's awesome. Top-quality Nashville musicians will join. I can't wait!
Here are some of the songs that I plan to include on the album:
"Magicians Never Tell," a song about my dad, is the title track from the upcoming album.
"I Love You Anyway" is about a very special little girl in my life (see more info below!)
"Lucky Little Girl" was written for Steve Wisinski for Father's Day 2018.
"Science of the Glow" was written after my experience at the Kerrville Folk Festival in Texas.
I've been playing these songs out over the last few years and am often asked, "Which album is that on?" I've answered, "Oh, it'll be on the next one!"
It's time to make the next one.
The Budget
$20,000 will cover:
- Studio expenses
- Engineer and producer fees
- Paying the musicians
- Mixing and mastering
- CD duplication
- Copyright fees
- Digital distribution fees
- Album artwork
- Postage
- Kickstarter's 5% fee AND payment processing fee (3-8%)
If we surpass the $20,000 mark, all remaining funds will go towards publicity to get the music out into the world! A good, credible PR company charges between $2,000 and $3,000 per month to run an album release campaign (usually a three-month minimum).
What's in it for you?
All backers will also have exclusive access to behind-the-scenes updates and first access to the album as soon as it's finished, prior to its official release.
Plus, rewards, galore!
By donating to this campaign, you're showing me that you are someone who believes in me and my dream. I want to do more than just say, "Thank you." You are helping me fulfill my purpose and no "reward" I can give back to you is going to reciprocate that equally.
However, I'm going to try! I've come up with some fun rewards for all pledge levels.
(Please read the "Rewards" section on this page for descriptions of what these mean!)
Here's an example of a song I was commissioned to write as a gift:
About Me(a)...
I write songs, perform in musicals, direct children's theatre, and dress up like all sorts of characters on the weekends as a children's party entertainer. There are many other oddball jobs I could list... but you get the picture. One day, I might be performing my original songs on a big festival stage and the next, I'm getting punched in the leg (or worse) while wearing a Paw Patrol costume. Life is humbling but I'm grateful for flexible work and for the gift of singing and writing songs.
Three years ago, I gathered up the courage to launch a Kickstarter campaign to record my second album, Follow Me Moon. I was blown away by the overwhelming support. Talk about an encouraging experience!
Since that release, I've had many more encouraging experiences: prestigious songwriting contests, songwriting schools, touring, and attending folk music conferences.
Other things happened, too. I grew up some. I found love and became a "bonus mom" to the most incredible little girl. I've found a bigger purpose than myself. I've found deeper things to write about. These songs are about family. I've also learned to be proud of being myself in my writing -- goofy side and all.
Why am I doing this?
I don't think any of us get into this independent artist life in search of wealth or fame. Simply put, I want to create music that moves and connects people. I want to record it properly and leave it behind as my mark on this world.
I'm grateful for this platform that allows us to support each other by saying, "I believe in your dream and want to help make it come true." It doesn't matter if that's with $5 we have to spare or with an encouraging message or willingness to spread the word.
If you can't donate, but want to stay updated on the album, click here to sign up for my email list: Join Mailing List
Risks and challenges
If this campaign does not meet the $20,000 goal within 30 days, this album won't be able to happen at this time (scary, but I have faith!)
Of course, there is always the possibility of extenuating circumstances causing delay. If there is a delay for any reason, I promise to be very honest and communicative about where we are in the process.
Learn about accountability on KickstarterSupport
Funding period
- (30 days)