The art of asking | Amanda Palmer

Don't make people pay for music, says Amanda Palmer. Let them. In a passionate talk that begins in her days as a street performer (drop a dollar in the hat for the Eight-Foot Bride!), she examines the new relationship between artist and fan.
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[@codakose4877]

Was hoping Amanda Palmer would be the first person to crowdsurf a TED audience

[@nattitilahun9718]

Nardwuar already did

[@TranquileEngendre]

lol

[@anitasseo]

Jan Terri did also.

[@shylathiel]

Codakose your so awesomely funny I agree she could pull that off

[@JohnSmith-vy4lh]

The art of poncing by freeks

[@amitnagpal1985]

She looks so comfortable in her own skin, such a refreshing opinion and personality. I am Wow-Ed.

[@ginaurrely5407]

I love her way of juice been a real human being

[@shylathiel]

amit nagpal it's awesome I love that about goddesses

[@michaelscofield1970]

Hi Ed, I'm dad

[@josiecameron3395]

She's incredible isn't she?

[@emixox8404]

@@josiecameron3395 no

[@natashapearson2773]

When you ask for a photo with her, she smooshes her face against your cheek and grabs you like your best friend. She does this to everyone who asks and it makes you feel like she loves you.

[@52hello25]

She seems like the sort of person who probably does love everyone she meets.

[@dmacrolens]

Makes?

[@AP-jz1eh]

i wish i were like her

[@AwkwardSilence22]

I'm sure she actually does :)

[@izzyfox7575]

This is such a lovely comment.

[@NicholasSmith-mu9lk]

I work at a rehab center and every time i watch this i think of how much i would love to show this to my clients. with addiction it is so hard to ask and accept help and i believe that once i find a way to show this to my clients, i may be able to really get them thinking about how asking is stronger than just trying to do something on their own.

[@isatthere]

Your comment made me stop and think....

[@NicholasSmith-mu9lk]

well as an update, i did show my clients, and they were all amazed by how well she presented herself and her ideas. I plan on using it every month when I have new clients to show the video to.

[@renzowu9909]

Clients or patients?

[@NicholasSmith-mu9lk]

Clients, we do not call them patients. They explained it to me once, but the short of it is that they are not in a hospital so they are not patients. Something weird like that.

[@RepeatedFails]

God man, this post is right on. Nobody wants to ask and they feel they are a burden to call at 12:15 at night because they want to drink. No man, I had to ask people for help and it was terrifying. If you NEED to call I WANT to answer.

[@BrightBlueJim]

The important take-away: if a record label only sells 25,000 CDs, it's a failure. If an individual gets individual support from 25,000 people to make a CD, she's a money-grubbing villain. Thank you Amanda Palmer, you make the world a better place.

[@janedoh1648]

I used to like Neil gaiman

[@motherhood234]

😭

[@irrevenant3]

@@janedoh1648 Why don't you like him now? What happened?

[@shiteyanyo1111]

"Thank you, nobody ever sees me." I can't tell you how impactful that is. Like, even working as a waitress in a nursing home I'd have moments like these with the patients when in reality my job is to bring them food. It's crazy how much kindness really does it for you especially when you're very low.

[@HiKasandra]

Thank you. XO

[@robpickering1348]

I just used this TED Talk to teach my students how to be critical viewers. They identified these assertions: asking creates a human connection; the difference between corporate success and artistic success is marked, and crowdfunding may be the new standard given state of the music industry. I was proud of how they interpreted and reacted to the footage, and I think you now have some new fans.

[@carpexomnis]

Rob Pickering stealing this and using it with my students next semester thank you!

[@sophieszobonya3175]

Three years late, but hey... it's still an answer: as a student, I wish I had more teachers like you. Even as a stranger, I would like to say thank you because you've showed them _this_ video, so they could become _critical viewers_ and you are _proud_ of them.

[@shumeister1059]

Nice one Rob!

[@765LT_]

You might have censored the part when she stripped

[@8055jayesh]

her passion made this talk awesome it was in her eyes, voice and body language.... just amazing...

[@JakeBroe]

She has spent a lot of time on stage! She nailed this talk!

[@geema2281]

When she told the story of the Honduran girl and her family, I couldn't stop the tears coming down my face. This was beautiful.

[@jamesmynott7558]

I was crying from when she talked about the prolonged eye contact with strangers as a statue. When she said 'My eyes would say thank you, I see you and their eyes would say nobody ever see me, thank you' I just lost it!

[@riotatthetop2227]

I cried when she said she let them write on her nude. I also got a stiffie but don't judge me.

[@SaeleeSaan]

@@jamesmynott7558 that was so powerful.

[@harisadu8998]

She should not have accepted the beds. Should have insisted that they sleep on their own beds while they use the couches.

[@lavenderrose4962]

@@harisadu8998 yup

[@RalphDratman]

This may turn out to be one of the most important Ted talks ever given, because it points to a new kind of economy, an economy based on abundance rather than scarcity.

[@jammintoast]

Very true I like this perspective

[@safardebon9720]

+Ralph Dratman Yes Ralph - exciting stuff - Saw a movie recently called "Sita sings the blues", excellent film and totally crowd funded. Found her talk (on youtube) even more compelling

[@bezdelnicar]

+Ralph Dratman Watch "The Venus Project".

[@RalphDratman]

Pankaj Duggal Started watching Sita. Like it very much so far! Thanks.

[@illriginalized]

+Ralph Dratman Uh.. how? This lady will have to do this for the rest of her life lol.. no 401k. No savings. Living off of dollar bills per day.

[@LeafShade]

It's kind of sad that even hearing someone talk about humans being kind to other humans is so touching. Shouldn't that be standard?

[@bastianrivero]

Leaf Shade should be

[@deadskrillaskrit2078]

To reward good is to enable good, to provoke it. So...

[@LegendaryWoke]

Not in this satanic world

[@joejoeington6899]

It should be both

[@2126Eliza]

It probably would be without capitalism

[@nouraal-hazzani9615]

Her honest tone is captivating and her eyes are haunting. Quite interesting and weird, so wild and unique. I don't agree with her on many choices, but her message "Don't be ashamed of asking for help and support" is well presented. She is intimidatingly free of all strings of society, witch has it's own benefits and downfalls, but it seems that she's brisking in the good side of it the most. She is definitely unforgettable, and her path luckily resulted in such pretty views of the world. Take care of yourself Amanda.

[@judylou1338]

I love that you disagreed in a beautiful and thoughtful way.

[@beedle1565]

She's living the lux elite life, she is most certainly taking care of herself.

[@SuzyMontalalou]

*witch* ❤

[@Animalluver784523488]

I love how bold, bright, and creative she is. I'd definitely be her friend if I met her. She seems like someone up-beat and outgoing.

[@SakuraKaay]

+Meilani Cheung If you go to one of her gigs there's a 98% you'll meet her! :)

[@Animalluver784523488]

Khey Andou Ooo! I have to.

[@t-rexrobertson7106]

Absolutely beautiful TED. I always said if someone is bold enough to ask me directly for what they wanted then I become bold enough to give it if it is within my power to do so.

[@LindsayCatherine]

T-Rex Robertson Happy one year anniversary on your KZbin comment! I like your comment. Best Wishes, man! :)

[@genericname9199]

GIMME 10k $

[@williegates627]

@@genericname9199 LOL, yes. Sounds so beautiful but is completely meaningless.

[@lolalariscy3692]

This made me cry a little. I get that "I don't deserve this" feeling, too. Also, it's hard to trust.

[@buttonsf3293]

IKR?!

[@kingkylie9655]

its called imposter syndrome and almost everyone goes through it

[@neilmorbs82]

For all her flaws she really tries to be open, honest, real and humble. I don't dig her music but I am inspired by her efforts and vulnerability.

[@shylathiel]

Neil Morbey what flaws I see zero flaws authenticity is true perfection

[@hotscottrulz]

Shyla Thiel Authenticity is learning that you have flaws, and so do your idols. While I dig what you’re saying - I love her too! - she has made it clear that she doesn’t want to be put up on a pedestal. ♥️

[@rphanmurphy8385]

What are all her flaws? Oh wait, is this one of these moments where you didn't actually think about what you were saying so you opened the comment with just another overused staple? Once upon a time etc. we all fall down.

[@brianhiebert9826]

perfection is an illusion, flaws are everywhere if we look for them

[@shaikhaali7447]

@@rphanmurphy8385 Her open racism, for one?

[@vitsavicky]

"I didn't make them, I asked them." More people should embrace this.

[@so-nali]

Just genuinely asking What does I didn't make them means?

[@morenoramonvictor]

@@so-nali she didnt think of a way to be most profitable. she didnt seek out money or fame, but it would still be nice to have that. i think thats what she means when she says she didnt make them

[@shiteyanyo1111]

@@so-nali She was attacked, still is, viciously online for "robbing stupid teenagers of their parents money"; but she never once guilt tripped or begged. She asked for help and ran a campaign, and continues funding music through Patreon. She simply advertises herself and what she wants to do, and people who are able help out. They pay her with resources, she pays back with art. Kind of like the olden days where rich people sponsored artists like Michelangelo.

[@hawkstrike18]

@@so-nali I see you, too, have mastered the art of asking :p Btw. Companies/ppl force ppl to pay for a product (or for mere sets of pixels -appearances/"skins", etc- these days, in videogames). She basically said that the payment should be optional (as it *is* in many content creators' cases lately). Most ppl do feel they have to reward artists, etc anyway. I bet my explanation isn't quite complete, and I'm missing something, but I'm sleepy atm xD

[@beedle1565]

@@shiteyanyo1111 It's much deeper than that. Amanda is problematic for several reasons which you can easily find online. She's a bit of a sociopath and certainly not afraid to "ask" for anything.

[@ritapita6400]

She is the mother of crowdfunding and I don’t think anyone has ever given her the credit she deserves. The world changed after this. Every KZbinr that has a patreon owes her their living. She is the best.

[@SakuraKaay]

I downloaded her CD for free at her webpage. I then went to one of her gigs, she is an AMAZING performer, very talented and a true artist. In the show she really connects with her audience and aftershow stays if she can to meet them. Needless to say after the show I bought her CD there for $10 even though I had it...she deserves more.

[@wloriganbrady]

should have been $20, after her inspiring story.

[@beedle1565]

She's extremely wealthy, perhaps split the difference with a human statue who needs it more.

[@rickwyant]

I was totally taken in by this talk, what a wonderful person she is and how true her words. Awesome!

[@shylathiel]

Richard Wyant and you are wonderful for noticing

[@MikeBrowne]

Truly inspirational Amanda. And I so agree with you. I teach and inspire photographers to achieve their personal goals - mostly online. I too have many stories similar to the guy who gave you $10 because he burnt your CD from a friend. People are, and love to be amazing when we just open up, trust and give them the opportunity to be that.

[@Lunathiel_]

It's people like her that we need in any art industry. I'm a fellow creator - one of those art school dropouts who never made a great career, but also didn't completely abandon what they love in order to "get a real job". I'm painting, sketching, I'm making and altering clothes too, I'm kinda into miniatures, jewellery... and a lot of other stuff. And I always made those things just for art's sake, not sharing with anyone and not ever trying to sell it, because of this deeply-rooted belief that making not-useful-stuff isn't an actual job. But recently I tried. I shared a painting on a facebook group. And people actually loved it. They were commenting, saying it looks very nostalgic, and that they want to see more. I was quite shocked, in a very uplifting way. And I realized an important thing: that for years, I never even asked. Even for an opinion, let alone for money. And listening to this talk (more like a performance, I'd say) reminds me that it's an essential skill for every artist - asking, and putting yourself out there :)

[@Michael-NZ]

For sure. I’m the same…. Working on it….

[@pianoonparade]

I remember watching this last year when I really needed the help. The way she talks to you is amazing.

[@fefhjkcthimikaniflbbfwehhc983]

xfjfun

[@MrLednard]

+M.R. Yan It's my video against depression, work pretty good

[@paola4uchi]

Ugh, god damn... she's such a fucking poet. I love her.

[@eterista3868]

Looking back - almost 10 years after this TED talk - it feels so strange that she experienced set-back from people about her kick-starter campaign, to "get a job", stop stealing money from fans etc. So alien in this new participatory economy, which is going on for couple of years now. Her TED talk was truly unique, predicting wide-spread of patreons and online support for youtubers, content creators, artists, film-makers, game developers world-wide and rise of "the creator economy". Those haters were really short-sighted and quite stupid.

[@katec9893]

This video has just come up on my recommended, what happened with her kick-starter campaign? I was thinking if reading her book on this topic.

[@glennkeppel9836]

@@katec9893 Read her book, it's great. I'm a 60 year old bloke who bought it for my daughter many years ago and just read it this week. Brought me to this talk.

[@letsgobrandon5800]

The haters were right……..people are sick of patron and other electronic begging. It’s better to just honestly ask.

[@Bastogne1944]

I was wondering where she was headed with her conclusion, but her final question was brilliant.

[@RobinJohnson]

That was just everything. EVERYTHING. I'm speechless.

[@keyboarddancers7751]

You took no words out of my mouth and yet you've said what I feel!

[@nicom4996]

Yhea just Mind Blowing

[@StephanieManley]

Brilliant. This holds true for any content creator. We have to build trust with our audience, and then ask for their support. I think she summed it up very well about that feeling you get when someone looks at you and doesn't realize what you do as work and the value that it has. Thanks TEDx for putting this one together.

[@IainGalli]

Stephanie Manley the kindness of strangers

[@IainGalli]

Groups are the future

[@shylathiel]

Stephanie Manley I love this to smart lady.

[@SquirrelMonkeyCom]

What is so brilliant about this? I couldn't finish her TED talk. There is nothing wrong with artists with a business mind. There is nothing wrong with asking people to buy your stuff or to subscribe. But if you present a commercial relationship as some kind of real, magical love relationship between the artist and the "fans", it's in my opinion wrong. It doesn't make her a true artist, but a parasite, who is playing strangers. She takes advantage of people's generosity, compassion, and courtesy. She puts people in an uncomfortable situation. She puts a huge social pressure on them, when she creates a scene where she expects people to give her money. Actually, this is not her invention, but one by the Catholic Church, who started with collection trays. Her higher level of begging is unlimited. She even undresses and lets people touch her butt...to sell her music. All thousands of pity/politeness-dollars she made, are not because of her creativity or talent, but because of her subliminal begging. She does make people pay for her music more than any street artist I've seen, but wrapped in a layer that apparently blinds people. The worst thing of this story is that many introverted talented people, lose money over this clucking attention sponge. In the time of Vincent van Gogh, there were also Amanda Palmers who slithered their way to the top. But people like Erik Satie or Van Gogh were unnoticed because they just wanted to make art.

[@StephanieManley]

@@SquirrelMonkeyCom I didn't see the connection of the Catholic Church here. We may not see eye to eye on this one. Again, as content creators, there should be an exchange of something of value for something of value. If you don't like buskers don't listen to their music, don't watch their magic shows, walk on. For those who enjoy it, do your part.

[@venussamady4735]

Nearly made me cry , How honest she is and I really wanna look at the world the way she looks

[@spencerhale2756]

We can, just ask to see it that way. Take the chance.

[@madelyntoday7093]

I love she's real. Most people that talk about stuff like this seem so phony, but she really believes in it.

[@jeremyhunt001]

People want to help. Very beautiful. I have never thought of "asking" as a way to connect. It has always seemed like a way to take. I will have to try this in my personal life.

[@mlowie29]

"For most of human history, musicians, artists, they've been part of the community; connectors and openers, not untouchable stars. Celebrity is about a lot of people loving you from a distance..." This phrase kind of remind me of the difference between a leader and a boss.

[@DahrkMezalf]

Amanda Palmer is one of those rare artists, and people in general, that don't focus on capitalizing, but rather focus on personal connection and the rich environment it creates when a celebrity isn't afraid to be a part of the crowd. Her music is deep and heartfelt, and she is the most down-to-earth person when it comes to living life. She isn't ashamed to share anything and everything (she stripped down and let strangers draw on her, for God's sake). - Her method is a beautiful step in the right direction. We do it in our everyday lives, so why is it looked down on in other aspects? People want to help each other: that's human nature. We can achieve so much more if we ask rather than demand: everyone wins.

[@gdionwood]

Amanda Palmer, I don't really know why I haven't discovered you until your rant on the Daily Mail got posted, but I am glad that I did! You are a sensational talent! A sensational & beautiful pioneer at a time in history when it is damn near impossible to stand out for good, music & humanity!!

[@delaneynelson526]

I had not heard of her until today when I purchased her book. I was not even five pages into it when I realized how amazing she was and how much I connected to it. Now I am looking into her and realizing I haven't even scratched the surface with her and I think she will be able to help me a lot with understanding myself and my fear of opening myself up to people.

[@nahbirdie4773]

🌼

[@urbnwitch23]

🌺

[@yoghrut]

As a drunk german guy, I am not even offended

[@Javo_Non]

Im not german, but im drunk and I approve this

[@susettehorspool2646]

😂🤣😅🤣🤣

[@OfftoShambala]

this is one of the best ted presentation ever ... and I've watched probably 200 if that means anything

[@ashash8]

+OfftoShambala AGREED

[@jerilpineda2]

+OfftoShambala OMG IT'S TRUEEE

[@eclecticari9485]

Yeeeeee Shambs! Have fun on the farm

[@johnkim7802]

Amy Palmer's methods are things many businesses and salespeople can definitely stand to learn. We live in a world where the consumer is in charge of buying decisions with many alternative channels even though the products and services may differ. The consumer has become so powerful that free trials and samples are required to even bring a prospective customer to consider; and returns are encouraged to be processed even if the customer is very wrong. The key to marketing & sales is no longer all about trying to force a product down people but asking them while they're in a driver's seat as well!

[@OfftoShambala]

John Kim I am glad that you see how powerful the consumer is... so many people in the US believe they are powerless and manipulated, however, that is just not the case. People just tend to conform so if we create an uber non conformist consumeristic society... people who we currently believe have power wouldn't stand a chance LOL

[@Outbreax000]

It’s funny how this was posted 10 years ago yet it still resonates! Thank you so much AP!

[@Sinan97082]

There were moments where I noticed that Tears want to come out ... amazing person

[@thomassoesman8003]

I believe in the intrinsic goodness in people, but fear is such an obstacle in having the faith to believe that that goodness will be reflected towards me, and it is so ingrained in me not to ask for anything. I am inspired by you talk, thank you Amanda.

[@rubenoblitas665]

I usually don't comment on videos, but this was an amazing TED presentation. It was insightful, it felt genuine, and it spoke towards what has made our name our virtue. Humanity isn't about BEING civilized; it is about the connections that come with civilization. Beautiful presentation. Thank you, Amanda Palmer.

[@alejandra51550]

the only TED talk that never fails to make me cry, no matter how many times I watch it. love the ideas and her voice!

[@LynneJordan11]

Amanda Palmer - a true troubadour. Amanda was the girl who raised over a Million dollars on Kickstarter a couple years back. She's still out there singing and living the life of an artist and sharing the art of asking and Trust. The relationship between artist and audience. Love it!!

[@syd8668]

Didn't know much about her before this talk only that she is married to the amazing Neil Gaiman but she seems really cool, quirky and creative- can definitely see why they are together

[@sandragraves1177]

Syd didn't hurt her career either

[@b.sylphaen]

In her book you can read how they met and fell in love. It's a really sweet and deep story.

[@quixotiq]

Now divorced. With Gaiman in trouble with five and counting females alleging sexual assault/abusive relationships...

[@QuirkyGirl12345]

Still makes me cry. Such a beautiful and inspirational message. :)

[@phoeberabino9739]

I love Amanda Palmer since I first heard Coin Operated Boy in 2004. And this, I loved her moooooore. I love you, Amanda!

[@brendanpelly493]

Beautiful Amanda, I am at the ancient age of 46...haha...but I actually have heard of your bands (I think through Triple J)...but I cannot recall your music offhand...sorry! Now I MUST!!! You had me teary eyed from the first few minutes. You are a beautiful human being and to me, define...what it is to be HUMAN!!! I have now fallen in love with you...and now I MUST listen to your music...or should I say...listen to...'your message through art'? I instinctively recognize this human connection that you speak of! I feel it and cannot deny such experiential moments throughout my life, even if they be transient! You truly are BEAUTIFUL!!! And I thank you for talking to us! At 13 minutes and 6 seconds, you say..."I think people have been obsessed with the wrong question. Which is how do we MAKE people pay for music?! What if we started ASKING...'how do we...LET...people pay for music'..." I must tell you that I have interpreted your message in a broader context, by replacing the word 'MUSIC' with the word...'KAIZEN'!!! XOXO I must now listen to your music :-x

[@BarclayElissa]

thank you, people starting giving me 10 bucks at shows as well, bc they thought the promoter at the door was taking it all and waiting to make sure I recieved something. it was very kind. it makes my heart burst. thanks for this talk

[@LadyGameLyric]

Every musician and artist has to see this.

[@Deepakmtg]

I was crying watching this video and then I questioned myself what made me cry so badly. Then I realized your talk has given me this speical hope, that this life is so abundant and there is so much of beauty around, it's just that we should never give up and stay genuine to everyone and plunge ourself to help someone who needs us. Thank you so much for ur contribution.

[@FrankMansuetto]

I had never seen this until just now, and I've never heard of this musician before. But I spent the last 15 years of my life creating an album. It cost me a ton of money and time. But when it was done, money was not on my mind. Just the fact that I wanted everyone that I care about to hear what I spent the last years of my life creating. So I just posted on my social networks that I had an album, and to get a copy, all they need to do was send me their address. Within a week I received enough money, without asking for any, to pay for all the manufacturing costs. People WANT to support art. They don't need to be forced. I was just shown this and it only solidified my opinion further. I'm glad musician much more popular than me are doing the same.

[@ChadWilson]

This was a fantastic TedTalk. I very much like her philosophy on making connections with people and how she trusts her fans to give back...because it is fair.

[@FawnDrewNB]

Amanda, I can not put into words how amazing this video made me feel. I've always been a fan of yours but this is the first time I've seen this talk. You are truly a great public speaker and an amazing person. I hope I can one day meet you in person and show you how much I love you (I don't mean that in a creepy way. I mean it like by trusting her and all the stuff she says in the video).

[@lauramanning6922]

When I was a young, single mom, I had to ask for a lot of help. It was hard because sometimes people offered help and I struggled to accept it. Then I realized by accepting their offer to help I was allowing them to give. Being allowed to give is as much as a gift as receiving a gift. Giving is a choice. Receiving is a choice too! It's an agreement to fill each others needs. Thank you for sharing, Amanda.

[@rachaelbarnum9265]

She deserved a standing ovasion. This made me cry several times. Partly because that's what i get as a massage therapist and some of the conversations we have. That's what i love about my job. It's not work. I am so thankful for people looking to be seen. Thank you Amanda.

[@NganHoang-dy8el]

I dont know why but I cried a little after watching this. Her talk moved me a lot.

[@wandawaaa7974]

I give NYC tours for pay-what-you-want ... and I love it. It's delightful to experience people paying me what they want. Today, a lady had to go, she didn't pay, yet I was so grateful that she didn't hide (unlike most people who may feel bad about giving me "too little" or don't want to. -- I love sharing, and letting people pay me.

[@suburbanhermit7]

I keep coming back to this video over the years. Amanda and her music got me through high school, and I've loved her ever since. This video is especially interesting now, with the rise of patron funding programs by content creators. Amanda proved the art of asking made good business sense, and created a close knit community for people to a part of. I hope her name, music, and legacy continue to grow.

[@kassidyatkins5087]

this is hands down the most genuine Ted talk completely natural effortless talk

[@DrBitchcraft.]

I really like the "realness" in her :) I hope there are more people with as positive mind as her.

[@mrandiboy101]

ScoutiverTTV she does her eyebrows on purpose like that

[@miroslavhoudek7085]

+ScoutiverTTV They are. Those are eye bros, expressed in bro code.

[@edwardcullennavy8809]

friendly witch u

[@shylathiel]

friendly witch I love your realness to. Your screen name is awesome

[@superterminator1991]

join couchsurfing - you'll meet plenty :)

[@lisaakuahmusic]

I've only just watched this now, while in the process of changing my life for music. Started reading her book, got my mind blown on page for without ever having listened to any of her music! This is truly inspiring. Thank you!

[@veerchasm1]

Awesome. The connection she makes with her fans is revolutionary. As a “failed” musician this inspires me. I had too much pride “to ask” for help

[@inescapablyhuman6348]

I enjoyed this talk so much. Amanda, if you read these... thank you. You really got me thinking about some deep stuff. The bits about connecting with people were particularly inspiring, at least to me. And the no fixed ticket price stuff... I relate to you there. This year I started giving horsemanship lessons with no fixed price and it's been amazing. I love the way it makes me feel, and I love that nobody has to miss out just because of money. I think more people should consider working for donations rather than charging fixed prices.

[@whoareyou1332]

When I used to live in London, the neighbourhood I lived in was pretty friendly (the kind where strangers would say hello in the street, you'd stop and chat, and the following week one of you was at the other one's house having coffee, or snacks and wine), and we had a sort of trading system. If someone had a skill to offer (say gardening), then the other person might 'pay' them by babysitting their kids for free, or doing their ironing or something like that. No money was ever exchanged and it was the art of asking principle. Word would go around that someone was in need of maybe some shelves putting up, someone would offer to do it, and then a trade in skills etc. would be discussed and things just got sorted. It was so nice. I'd babysit kids, do art with them, bake cakes or cookies for people, walk their dog stuff like that, for a lift to the shops, or help with moving some furniture. I was a trained masseuse before I became ill and could no longer work at all, so I used to give a free massage or reflexology treatment for larger favours. I love that kind of connection with people - asking for help without shame or fear. I miss that neighbourhood.

[@centrifugalmuse]

This is why Neil Gaiman married her. She’s so hauntingly real and beautiful. Love her soul.

[@MandaTheMoonChild]

Still cry every time. Thank you Amanda

[@Lunaa_613]

Love this talk watched it twice. She's really pretty inside and out

[@WorldsOfWalsh]

Came here after I watched the Between The Sheets episode featuring Amanda F***ing Palmer.

[@snormax7691]

YEAH

[@TobiCatsith]

Hello, fellow Critters :)

[@babycthulhudreams]

🖤💜🖤

[@timmytoms__]

Heyyy i go there after reading this comment! Thank you for your recommendation, sir!

[@YusefRhymer]

The problem I think people have is with "begging". Being seen as not willing/able to pull their own weight in the world. A lot of the world including and maybe especially North America has a negative view of weakness. We have learned to dislike it and people associated with it. Someone who begs you for stuff or needs help is seen as a burden to society and to the individual. There are other ways of looking at life though, For instance, it's not really anyone else's responsibility to contribute, especially in a society where so many people do, people can do whatever is true to them. Shame is someone else' way of controlling others instead of taking responsibility for their own lives. What Amanda Palmer is doing isn't begging. She isn't saying please you have to help me. She isn't pushing responsibility for her life onto others like people on world vision commercials try to do(although they do it mostly for the kids) Amanda could get a job if she really needed one. She didn't though. She asked, not begged, people to support a vision that she wouldn't even set out to achieve if no for the hope others would find enjoyment from it. So this isn't begging. I think begging, expecting others to help you get through life, is unhealthy, or at least comes from someone who is unhealthy enough to need to do so. Amanda isn't unhealthy in this way. imo.

[@765LT_]

It’s hard to argue with your assesment

[@Madfattdeeb]

And this is why she is one of my biggest real-life heroes💜💜 This talk reminds me of the all the talks I have shared about going back to a barter and trade system. It would connect the world and different groups of people. As well as resetting the scales. so that the people who do more work receive more credit. No more CEOs sitting around doing nothing receiving all the glory and goods.

[@EmpressOrchid]

I just started reading her "art of Asking" and she is AMAZING... thank you Amanda for putting this in perspective for me

[@maiwei]

My buddy showed this to me last night and I am so thankful. Amanda gave a wonderful talk and is a beautiful being. Thank you.

[@foxgloveaeagle6569]

Wow! Such an amazing talk. I think we can all learn a lot from Amanda Palmer and that this message goes beyond the music industry to just having the ability to ask and give and receive openly in our lives. Thank you Amanda!

[@Tlyne10]

she speaks to me. her raw energy is so vibrant

[@poohbearrocks2008]

I love this. i think what she is really sharing is love. the power of love and honesty will get you so far. I'm a struggling college student and I always feel like my struggle is my own. This semester i didnt have enough money for my books and I finally got the courage to ask a small group of family and friends to just donate 5 to 10 dollars to help me and the response i received was wonderful. everyone said of course we would love to help fund your education. I wonder if I could take it bigger so I could study abroad but we will see.

[@lim6718]

One of my favorite TED speeches. Almost the one. Back to then, the quality and value of TED speeches hadn't started depreciating. Now dozens of TED speeches have been watched by me, but few of them left a scratch in my memory. This one is one of these few. Glad watching it again.

[@theoxperience5474]

So eloquently spoken. Please never judge a book by its cover. Phenomenal talk. Thank you!

[@VEE3RDEYE]

This gives me hope

[@rupadatta8808]

We never know what inspires us. I used to do crowd funding a lot. But, nowadays...I don't feel to ask people. I lost my confidence in people. Her speech giving me room to think and I find some inspiration. Thank you to encourage people to ask.

[@lexi-zt9vw]

I've loved Amanda's music for a while, maybe two years, now, and I had no clue she had a TED Talk! I barely knew her personality, and I love that she encourages sharing and downloading her music for free. It's very generous of her. What an amazing person.

[@colleennikstenas4921]

Perfection. Amanda, the old ways of patronage of the arts were this way though with a lot of rich people telling one how to do their art. Sounds familiar! The new way is to be the bard. That is you!

[@virtualcat5581]

This is about so much more than music! Thank you for putting yourself out there to share such amazing experiences!

[@EvilEves1]

I just had a conversation in the last 24 hours about this. Today this popped up on my KZbin. This is the universe showing me my heart is right. ❤️

[@primarytrainer1]

Though I have heard her name, I'm not familiar with Amanda. I am so glad that youtube recommended this to me. By far one of the most touching and beautiful talks I have watched. So powerful!!

[@mandypac2854]

Sounds great but few people are willing to actually live or experience this because it sounds crazy. I have though and she is not kidding how awesome it is. I am glad someone as articulate as her did this video.

[@goddessmelania]

I love her so much.. This made me cry!! So touching to the soul.. ♥ M

[@foxgloveaeagle6569]

Made me cry to!

[@ChaoticGoodDeeds]

+GoddessMelania Adding myself to this list. It made me cry happy tears.

[@Attrowoods]

Very touching.

[@foxgloveaeagle6569]

Just read her book 'the art of asking', it's amazing! One of the best books I've ever read.

[@MichelleJacobshistoryrepeating]

Ask, give and receive without fear.

[@baconandeggs80]

I come back to this every now and then. Still love it. If I were to write on her body as she asked her fans to do --I think I'd write, "Thanks."

[@ChrisTian-ox5nr]

very powerful and emotional. Love it.

[@mattisons19]

This woman has been my idol since I was 8 years old. I turn 18 in 2 months and she is still my idol.

[@765LT_]

And I’m 13 :D

[@prathamrawal5757]

You are 23 now , how's life?

[@smartdameful]

A simple but profound advice - that actually improved my social / professional life. Best Ted Talk ever! I wish I had seen this when I was younger 🤩

[@francescaerni1972]

Yeah, people get so obsessed with producing self-sufficient, independent adults that they forget that everyone needs each other.

[@Lulu-mj2fi]

What's up with his eyebrows??

[@danemeow8]

This was really inspiring, as a traditional media artist who is afraid to open up to people, afraid to even try, and who struggles with motivation in my work because of it- I think I really needed to hear this. This has opened a new way of thinking about the value of my art, but not just the finished product; it's the value of my process, my inspiration, my creative decisions, my struggles, and the connections and history that brought me to that finished piece of art as a person. And to let people see that process and that person, I now understand, has always been an integral part of what you are bringing to the world as an artist. I never thought of my art as being community and communication. Thank you Amanda.

[@jeffreyreynolds3572]

Amanda Palmer loves you. She really does.

[@chryssoulable]

On a positive note, she really is experiencing life in all it's senses. That's beautiful.

[@rileylovesbedcover]

Amanda is a beautiful person. She is willing to step out of her comfort zone and do whatever she needs to for her art. That's what art should be about, not money but people who love something who create and enjoy together. She has been an inspiration for me and my love of music and creativity.

[@aryastark3148]

Yup, but musicians and artists have to pay the bills too, as much as we love to create :)

[@carlottathefriendlyperson7710]

I've known her music for about half a year now, and I always kinda admired her from the music videos (from her own and the Dresden Dolls). First time seeing here like this, her personality, talking. I am awestruck. I think this is the most wonderful person I've ever seen. I've always been fascinated by hearing peoples stories, and sometimes find myself wishing, that I could just travel from place to place, stay with people for a day, a night, a week, and just talk. It's not exactly what she's getting at, but it reminded me of that dream.

[@TheChopperFTW]

there are truly truly some unique people out there. so many times in this speech my jaw was hanging low from what she was saying. and also at some points i was skeptic of what she was saying then immediately she proves me wrong with the results that came from her action. wow. not many people could do this that's for sure.

[@dawndruid]

As an artist myself....you are so inspiring - I would like to adopt this effort as well.

[@ThePinksparkle101]

Eyebrows on fleek.

[@Americansikkunt]

Really?

[@ThePinksparkle101]

Yes really.

[@williegates627]

If fleek means flawless, that's NOT anything close. It's like someone that is blind drew her eyebrows for her. Lord have mercy they are terrible.

[@Ceares]

Beautiful talk. Genuinely breaks my heart that I could never be that trusting or the person that asks, makes that connection and exchange.

[@Zireael83]

this is my favourite ted talk, watching this at least once a year since it was released :)