Pedestal is an iOS marketplace where independent musicians sell immersive album packages that combine audio, video, liner notes, and an interactive four‑track stem player. The platform lets fans isolate individual instrument tracks, comment on specific moments, and access exclusive visual content, while artists retain 80 % of sales revenue after a flat 20 % commission.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Artists struggle to monetize their music beyond low‑margin streaming royalties and often lose creative control, while listeners receive only passive, low‑engagement streams that lack ownership or interactive features. Traditional platforms also embed unrelated advertising, compromising the artistic experience.
Solution
Pedestal offers a direct‑to‑consumer digital marketplace where musicians sell complete, immersive album packages that combine audio, video, liner notes, and social interaction. Each album includes a built‑in four‑track stem player that lets fans isolate vocals, drums, melody, or bass, and an in‑album social layer for commenting on specific moments. Episodic video playback and downloadable digital liner‑note booklets recreate the “golden age” album experience in a modern app. Artists upload their assets via a simple WeTransfer workflow, set pricing, and retain full rights to their work. The iOS‑only app delivers purchased albums instantly, with secure payment processing and no subscription requirement. Pedestal takes a flat 20 % commission, allowing creators to keep 80 % of each sale.
Target Audience
Independent musicians, boutique labels, and creators who want to sell premium, interactive album experiences directly to engaged fans, as well as listeners seeking ownership and deeper engagement with music.
Features
- Integrated 4‑track stem player for real‑time isolation and remixing of individual instrument tracks.
- In‑album social module that enables timestamped comments, reactions, and fan discussions.
- Episodic video player for exclusive visual content, behind‑the‑scenes footage, and visual albums.
- Digital liner‑note booklets with credits, lyrics, artwork, and merch drop links.
- One‑click asset upload via WeTransfer and automated processing pipeline.
- iOS app (iOS 16+) with secure credit‑card and Apple Pay checkout, no subscription needed.
- Revenue split model: artists receive 80 % of each transaction, platform retains 20 %.
- Optional bundle creation (e.g., Passport Bundle) for premium multi‑album packages.