Bobert,
I've found that I'll attend a festival because of the performers with whom I'm familiar and enjoy, but nearly always leave the festival all excited about someone I've just heard for the first time.
Perhaps it's due to my circle of friends and acquaintances, but I'm constantly having new acts recommended.
I'm unfamiliar with CDBaby and don't believe that I've ever been exposed for the first time to any performer via internet, except by personal emails.