How to Make Money as a Musician
Upload Music on Streaming Services
Streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music and Google Play are a great way to make money as a musician. By uploading your music to these platforms, you will be able to reach more listeners and get paid for every stream of your songs. Depending on the streaming service, you can also generate income with ads or subscriptions. When it comes to distributing your music, work with an established distributor so that your tracks are available in all the major streaming services.
Sell Merchandise
Selling merchandise is another popular way for musicians to make money. You can offer t-shirts, hats, stickers and other branded items featuring your logo or artwork related to your music. Put up a store page on social media or create an online store where people can purchase your merchandise. You can also sell physical copies of your music such as CDs, vinyl and cassettes.
Live Performances
Live performances are a great way to not only make money but also promote your music. Playing gigs at local venues or festivals is one of the most direct ways to monetize your music by getting paid for each show you play. Additionally, many artists offer exclusive VIP packages with special benefits for their fans who attend live shows.
License Your Music
Another option to make money as a musician is by licensing your songs for use in movies, TV shows, video games and other projects that utilize music. To reach out to potential licensors , attend events and network with industry professionals who may help you get placements in projects.
Start a YouTube Channel
Creating a YouTube channel is an effective way to promote your music and make money from advertising revenue. You can upload videos of you performing your songs, behind the scenes footage, tour diaries and much more. Additionally, set up a Patreon account to get funding from fans who are willing to donate money to support your work.
Start an Influencer Brand Like Mr. Beast & Logan Paul
Building an influencer brand is a popular approach to making money as a musician. Like YouTubers such as Mr. Beast and Logan Paul, you can create content featuring your music alongside vlogs, challenges, tutorials and other kinds of videos to reach out to a larger audience. Additionally, secure sponsorships from companies that want to associate their brands with yours and generate income through ads or endorsements.
Become an Influencer on TikTok & Instagram
If you’re looking for a more visual approach, consider becoming an influencer on popular platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. You can create music videos featuring your songs or use trending dances or audio to go viral and reach out to new audiences. Additionally, collaborate with other artists to build your presence online and secure sponsorships from brands that align with your style of music.
Sell on Beats Websites
Beats websites such as Airbit and BeatStars are great platforms to showcase your music and sell instrumentals. Upload your beats on these websites and set up a store page where interested buyers can purchase your tracks. Additionally, many artists partner with labels to get additional exposure for their work.
Coach on Music Platforms
If you’re experienced in the music industry, another way to make money is by coaching others on music platforms such as Sidetrain. You can offer advice on songwriting, production, mixing and more to help aspiring artists succeed in the business. Additionally, many of these platforms connect you with potential clients who are looking for services related to the music industry.
Affiliate Marketing
You can also use affiliate marketing to generate extra income as a musician. Partner with brands that provide products or services that appeal to your fan base and promote them through your social media channels or website. Each time someone makes a purchase through your affiliate link, you will earn a commission from the sale.
Potentially Sell NFTs
Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have recently become popular as an alternative way to monetize music. They are digital assets that can be bought and sold on the blockchain, similar to cryptocurrency. As an artist, you can create NFTs of your songs or other artwork and potentially make money from their sale.
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of building relationships and promoting your music. Having a strong social media presence is a great way to reach new fans and keep existing ones engaged. Additionally, collaborate with other artists who may help you get more exposure for your music. By leveraging all these resources, you will be able to make money as a musician.
