How to make money as a musician remains one of the biggest challenges for success. Here’s a list of eighteen ways you can make money from music.
The article provides musicians with various income-generating strategies, emphasizing the importance of diversifying revenue streams to build a sustainable career. It covers both traditional and modern methods for earning money through music, including:
1. Streaming Revenue
While streaming payouts are low, they accumulate over time. Platforms like DistroKid help artists retain full earnings.
2. Selling Digital Downloads
Selling albums and singles directly through a personal website remains a strong revenue source.
3. Physical Recordings (CDs & Vinyl)
CDs and vinyl continue to grow in popularity. They serve as excellent merchandise options for fans.
4. Live Performances
Performing in venues, private events, festivals, and universities is a key way to make money and sell merchandise.
5. Live Streaming
Though less popular than before, online performances allow artists to reach global audiences and earn from ticket sales and donations.
6. Merchandise
Selling T-shirts, stickers, mugs, and even digital products like sheet music and video lessons can be highly profitable.
7. Crowdfunding
Artists can raise funds for new projects through platforms like Kickstarter, helping cover production and promotional costs.
8. Fan Subscriptions
Offering exclusive content, early access to new music, and special discounts can generate steady, recurring income.
9-11. Royalties (Public Performance, Digital, and Mechanical)
Musicians earn from radio play, live performances, non-interactive streaming (e.g., Pandora), and physical/digital sales. Registering with PROs like ASCAP, BMI, or SoundExchange ensures proper collection.
12. Licensing Music
Selling music for use in films, TV shows, and commercials can be lucrative, with separate fees for recording and composition.
13. Social Media Monetization
Artists can earn when their music is used on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.
14. YouTube Revenue
Ad revenue from YouTube videos featuring an artist’s music can generate passive income.
15. Sponsorships
Brands and companies may sponsor artists in exchange for promotion via social media, live shows, or merchandise.
16. Music Grants
Government and private grants help musicians fund recording, touring, and other career-related expenses.
17. Session Work
Playing or singing for other artists’ projects, either in-studio or on tour, can be a reliable income source.
18. Teaching Music
Providing in-person or online lessons, as well as selling instructional materials, is a great way to supplement earnings.
Key Takeaway
Musicians should diversify income streams beyond just streaming and live performances. Direct-to-fan sales, licensing, royalties, and teaching can provide financial stability while supporting artistic growth.
