Jill Sobule [ tickets ]'s new album, "California Years," which is scheduled to be released April 14, was financed via a year-long campaign during which fans could donate money in exchange for "gifts" ranging from a free digital download of the album ($10) to a private concert in your home ($5,000).

In November 2007, Sobule launched a dedicated website, jillsnextrecord.com, and by March she had met her $75,000 goal through donations from more than 500 fans and non-fans, according to a press release. Sobule said one person told her that he didn't really like her music but was donating to the recording fund because he liked the idea. The person who made the largest donation, $10,000, was "gifted" an opportunity to sing on the album.

Through the donations, Sobule ended up raising $85,000 to finance the recording, mastering, pressing, distribution, advertising and marketing of "California Years."

She also was able to enlist top-notch talent to work with, including producer Don Was and drummer Jim Keltner. The album was recorded at Henson Recording Studios, which is the former A&M Studio where Carole King recorded "Tapestry" and Joni Mitchell made "Blue."

Sobule is expected to spend much of next year on the road. Tour dates will be announced soon.