How You Can Help 150+ Indie Labels Devastated By London Riots Warehouse Fire

UPDATED: The international music community is rallying around the 150 independent labels whose stock was destroyed in the Sony Music/PIAS warehouse fire during the riots in London. While insurance may eventually cover some losses, many labels have more immediate cash flow needs. There are several ways that the industry and indie music fans can help:

"The subsequent loss of income and cash flow problems that this act of mindless vandalism will bring about may well be enough to push many of the smaller operators out of business." according to a LabelLove page set up to accept donations."Our aim is to try and rally the music industry, both on the artist and the audience sides, and see if we can raise some money to see those affected through the tough times ahead." Donate here.

UK indie label trade group AIM is encouraging fans to purchase digital downloads from the effected labels (listed here). I'd add that if you can make your digital purchases direct from the label's site you are probably netting them more cash and they'll be able to use it faster than if you buy via iTunes.

A Third Way:

Apple and Amazon could show support for indie music by offering these devastated labels advances against digital sales to be paid back when the insurance money arrives.  If you like this idea, spread the word.

Donate. Buy a download. Do it now.