Seriously dude, my twelve year old daughter can come up with $40 when she wants to. The only reason you don't have the money to protect your music is because it's not a priority to you. Make it a priority and the money will manifest itself. Most people are unable to sell the music they make for a multitude of reasons. If money is an issue for you today, believe me, it will continue to be an issue tomorrow. And besides, if you don't have two twenties to rub together, you shouldn't even be focused on making music.
It cost money to make music, even if you own your own gear, because time is money. Get your head in the game and start working your a*s off for money. Once you have money, you can apply it to music; not the other way around. Think about it... You can't afford proper packaging, marketing, promo, or any other cost associate with releasing music. Why would some one buy from you when they can buy from some who can display their professionalism?
Here's an idea you can use to make money right now, and I'm serious about this. Ask a friend or family member to borrow the money, and pay them back once you've made it back. Sell the stuff you rarely use, wear, or the stuff you're not using at all. And, if this doesn't work for you, stand on the street with a big a*s sign that says, "Please donate $2 so I release my music, instead of giving to a bum for alcohol..." I'm positive it will work because I've seen bums get money from holding up signs that say, "I'll be honest, I just need a drink."
How bad do you want to be successful, huh? Come on bro, get it together... Get what you need so you can move forward without being forced to look back.
