Heres something that i know the artist can do for themselves, if they have either the know how or support. STREAM! Leak something on youtube, stream a few singles on your website. Then once u can say i have x many hits on my site, hit up the advertisers and sell some advertising space on your site.

Listen, I am NOT a fan of advertising at all! But if your an artist looking for ways to make some extra $$, u can't limit yourself cause as this thread has shown its getting harder and harder for the artist to make anything.

Just a quick thought on different ideas to help an artist.

I agree, it doesn't have to be either/or, multiple revenue streams are neccasary in this day and age. I'm not a fan of advertising either, but your idea ain't bad.