How to Make Money From Music Streams (17 Creative Ways)

Making money from streaming has gotten much harder than it used to be, I can’t lie. 

This is because streaming payouts per stream are lower than ever, and there’s just so much competition now that it’s crazy.

Plus, depending only on streams for income just isn’t enough to sustain a music career these days. 

However, if you know the insider tips, tricks, and secrets, you can make some serious extra cash, and we’re breaking it all down today. 

This way, you’ll know exactly how to make money from music streams, like:

• Using multiple streaming platforms ✓
• Targeting premium streams for better payouts ✓
• Maximizing playlist placements ✓
• Crowdfunding and fan support ✓
• Monetizing live streams to earn money quicker ✓
• The perks when you sell merch ✓
• Tapping into user-generated content ✓
• Landing sync licensing and micro-sync deals ✓
• Creating NFTs and exclusive digital releases ✓
• Offering music for video games ✓
• Building subscription-based communities ✓
• Much more ✓

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to make money from music streams like an absolute boss. 

This way, you can keep your music career thriving and lock down new revenue streams that actually make a difference in your bank account.

Plus, you’ll really take advantage of all the different income opportunities available today so you’ll basically be making money as you sleep.

And there’s nothing better than that, am I right?

How to Make Money from Music Streams: Top 17 Ways

Like I said, we’re breaking down exactly how to make money from music streams like a boss. These strategies are based on what’s actually working right now, and cover a variety of revenue streams, including streaming, licensing, merch sales, and more. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced artist/producer looking to boost your music career, they’ll help you generate revenue and lock down a music career.

#1. Using Multiple Music Streaming Platforms (Like Apple Music)

Distributing your music across multiple streaming platforms is non-negotiable if you want to make money from music streams consistently. 

Think of platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Tidal, and even YouTube Music as different “income lanes.” 

Each has its own payout structure, but the more platforms your music is on, the more likely you are to earn more streams and, consequently, more streaming royalties. 

Pretty straightforward, am I right?

For example, I’ve seen firsthand that releasing music on Bandcamp (which is all about direct fan payments) brings in revenue from digital sales.

But, the great part is, it also boosts streams across other platforms like Spotify due to increased exposure. 

Working with a distribution service/distribution company like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby is key…

They ensure that your music is on every major and more ‘niche’ music streaming service 一 maximizing your potential reach. 

PRO TIP: Make sure your metadata (artist name, song titles, etc.) is consistent across all platforms to avoid lost streams and missed payouts; nobody has time for that.

Side note, if you want to learn all about the best free distribution services (including the #1 distribution service of all time), we got you.

#2. Focus on Premium Streams

Premium streams earn more than ad-supported streams, and targeting them is a great way to generate more money from music, no doubt about it.

Platforms like Apple Music and Tidal primarily offer paid subscription services, which means the average payout per stream is way higher. 

In my experience, promoting new releases during “prime streaming times” (like Friday afternoons or during major music events) helps increase premium streams. 

Also, try running exclusive campaigns on platforms that favor premium users over everybody, such as Amazon Music. 

For example, you can offer early access to a new single exclusively for Amazon Prime members, which people are actually very intrigued by.

Make sure to encourage your fanbase to go for premium subscriptions on services like Spotify, as streams from these users have a higher payout rate. 

Finally, offering exclusive content, like bonus tracks or early releases, can make your fans want to subscribe to premium tiers on various streaming services.

#3. Maximize Playlist Placements

When it comes to learning how to make money from music streams, getting your music on playlists can be one of the most profitable strategies. 

I’ve seen tracks gain thousands of more streams within days of landing on the right playlists, even when starting from scratch. 

You’ll want to focus on both:

• Official editorial playlists (like Spotify’s “Fresh Finds” or Apple Music’s “New Music Daily”).
• Smaller user-curated lists that target niche audiences, like lo-fi beats, chill rap, or workout tracks. 

I recommend using tools like SubmitHub, PlaylistPush, or even reaching out directly to curators on social media…

Just keep your pitch personal, explaining why your track fits their playlist’s vibe and make sure never to be annoying; they absolutely hate that.

 

For example, when I pitched my lo-fi track to a “Study Beats” playlist, I showed how the calming tempo and atmospheric synths matched their audience’s needs for focus music, and it went crazy.

To increase your odds, update your metadata with the proper genres, moods, and BPMs to help algorithms categorize your music correctly. 

The more playlists you’re featured on, the more streams you’ll get.

This way, you’ll secure higher streaming royalties and ultimately prove you know how to make money from music streams consistently.

#4. Utilize Crowdfunding Platforms

Crowdfunding can be a huge help for artists and producers trying to make money from music beyond just streams. 

Platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter allow fans to back your projects directly.

Personally, I’ve used Patreon to offer: 

• Exclusive access to unreleased tracks
• Personalized music lessons (like music theory)
• Even early glimpses into my upcoming music project

You should also combine crowdfunding with your regular music releases for an even more reliable revenue stream. 

It can help you lock down a more sustainable music career in the music industry, which is exactly what you’re looking for. 

Just remember, though, to keep things interesting for your backers by giving them access to fresh and exciting perks (like VIP Q&A sessions or signed merch).

#5. Monetize Live Streams

Figuring out how to make money from music streams is one thing, but monetizing live streams is another powerful method that can really turn things up a notch.

It can keep cash flowing without ever leaving your studio, if you play it right.

I’ve found that hosting themed live events, like “Album Premiere Nights” or “Q&A with the Artist,” keeps my fans engaged in a major way.

It also helps generate income through: 

• Ticket sales
• Professional tips
• Fan donations 

Use platforms like Twitch, YouTube Live, or Facebook Live to offer virtual concerts or even production tutorials that you really excel at.

Just don’t bring anything basic or amateur to the table, people skip right over that.

This not only rolls in more money from music but also increases your overall music streams as fans go back to check out the tracks you featured live. 

PRO TIP: Sell exclusive merch or offer early access to new releases during the live stream to create additional revenue streams. 

The more interactive and personal you can make these events, the more likely fans are to support financially 一 boosting both your earnings and visibility.

#6. Selling Merchandise

Selling merchandise has always been a strong way to make money from music streams, and it’s still one of the most consistent revenue streams today. 

Think beyond just basic T-shirts… Offer items like hoodies, hats, posters, and even vinyl records to diversify your merch sales. 

The more unique and obscure it is, the more people will want it, trust me.

I’ve found that bundles tied to a new release boosts both merch sales and streams at the same time, for example include:

• Exclusive artwork
• Digital downloads
• Autographed copies

Promote your merch not only through live performances but also on your own website, where fans can easily sell music online alongside the merch. 

You should also use online platforms like Bandcamp or Shopify, which let you create an online store and manage your merch sales. 

To generate even more money from music, offer exclusive pre-sale merch to loyal fans, like limited runs or items only available to your Patreon supporters. 

Keep updating your designs and adding fresh items to maintain fan interest, because, let’s face it, even the most loyal music fans want new merch to rep their favorite musical artists.

NOTE: Remember to run up your social media numbers and overall presence because nobody wants merch from a ‘nobody’ (not that you’re a nobody, but you know what I mean).

#7. Monetize User-Generated Content

User-generated content (UGC) can be a goldmine when trying to make money from music streams, and I’m not over-exaggerating.

Think about all those TikTok dance challenges or Instagram Reels that go viral… Your music could be the backdrop for one of them. 

For this to actually work, you need to register your music with platforms like Facebook’s Rights Manager, which helps you monetize when your tracks are used in: 

• Reels
• Stories
• Videos across social media

I’ve noticed that sharing easy-to-use samples from my tracks encourages fans to create their own videos, especially the super mind-blowing stuff.

This will successfully lead to more streams and, ultimately, streaming royalties. 

So, encourage your fans to use your music in their content 一 It not only brings in money from music but also promotes your music to new audiences in a more organic way.

#8. Secure Sync Licensing Deals

Getting your music into sync licensing can be a huge step in understanding how to make money from music streams on a larger scale (and lock down placements).

Sync licensing involves placing your music in: 

• TV shows
• Movies
• Commercials
• Even YouTube videos

This not only brings in upfront licensing fees but also generates streaming royalties/future royalties over time. 

For example, I landed a sync deal where one of my killer trap tracks was used in a commercial, resulting in a direct payment.

As well as an unexpected spike in music streams across major platforms… Well, thinking back I guess it wasn’t so unexpected.

Just keep in mind that this is a very, very competitive market right now, so if you want to lock something down, you really need to stand out in a major way and hustle all day.

To increase your chances, submit your tracks to music libraries that specialize in sync placements or directly pitch to music supervisors. 

Make sure your songs are registered with a music publisher or PRO to collect mechanical royalties and performance royalties from these sync opportunities. 

This not only adds another revenue stream but also exposes your music to a bigger audience, giving you more insight into how to make money from music streams.

• Pro Tip for Music Streaming

Remember, music publishing is not just about protecting your rights… 

It’s about ensuring you’re paid every time your music is used commercially, whether it’s on streaming platforms, in live performances, or within sync deals. 

Music publishing is all about maximizing your income by tapping into multiple revenue streams, from streaming royalties to public performance fees.

And even print royalties if your music is turned into sheet music.

#8 ½: Micro-Sync Licensing

Piggy-backing off of my last tip, micro-syncs are smaller-scale versions of sync deals, but they can still lead to real money from music. 

These involve using your tracks in online content like YouTube videos, podcasts, and even educational videos. 

I’ve had success pitching to YouTubers and podcasters 一 offering my music for free in exchange for credits and more streams (which actually really worked).

This strategy not only helps you make money through streaming royalties but also boosts your presence on platforms like YouTube Music.

Leading to, you guessed it, more money from music. 

The best part?… Even these small placements can create a ripple effect, leading to larger sync opportunities down the line.

#9. Engage in Brand Sponsorships

Engaging with brands can be a fun and profitable way to make money from music streams if you really go about it the right way.

I’ve partnered with everything from energy drinks to streetwear brands, promoting their products through my music videos and live streams. 

If you have a solid fan base, even smaller brands might be willing to collaborate by sponsoring a song release or video.

This will add yet another revenue stream and help enhance your music career. 

To make this happen, knock out a sponsorship deck that showcases your engagement metrics (e.g., streaming sites stats, YouTube channel views, and even live music performances).

Not only does this generate more money from music, but it also expands your reach 一 leading to more streams and a stronger fan base.

#10. Release Exclusive Music as NFTs

NFTs (non-fungible tokens) is an impressive, fresh way to make money from music streams by selling exclusive digital assets tied to your tracks. 

For example, I’ve sold limited-edition tracks as NFTs, each featuring a unique cover art and a one-of-a-kind instrumental version of my song.

This not only generated more money from composing music online but also created buzz among my fanbase (win-win, baby).

To start, you can create NFTs of unreleased tracks, VIP passes to future shows, or even personalized shoutouts, all minted on platforms like OpenSea or Audius. 

While it can be a bit technical at first, setting up NFTs offers another revenue stream that can pay off big time, especially if you already have a loyal fanbase. 

NOTE: Just remember to promote your NFT drops heavily on your YouTube channel, social media, and music streaming platforms to drive interest and streaming sales.

#11. Offer Music for Video Games

Video games are a constantly growing/evolving market for making money from music, and many independent game developers are actively looking for fresh tracks to enhance their gameplay. 

I’ve had success submitting instrumental tracks to indie game developers on platforms like Unity Connect and GameDev Market.

It upp’ed my music streams but also provided steady streaming royalties as the games gained popularity. 

NOTE: You should consider offering both full songs and loops that fit different game themes, like battle music or calm exploration tunes. 

To stand out, create a portfolio with diverse styles, including retro synthwave, orchestral scores, or lo-fi beats (which are in high demand right now).

Being featured in a game can also increase your visibility on streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music, where gamers often search for their favorite soundtracks.

#12. Sell Sample Packs and Stems 

Selling sample packs and stems is an excellent way to earn more money from music while reaching other music producers. 

I’ve personally sold drum loops, synth patches, and vocal stems from my tracks, which brought in extra income.

It also increased my visibility in music library big-shots like Splice or Loopmasters. 

The key is to focus on creating high-quality, usable samples that cater to popular genres like trap, EDM, pop, hip-hop, lo-fi, indie, etc.

NOTE: By including a link back to your original music on major streaming platforms, you can also drive more streams and encourage users to check out your full tracks. 

Not only does this create an additional revenue stream when you release music, but it also positions you as an expert in music production within the producer community.

• Bonus: Use Music Analytics to Boost Streams

To generate more streams and maximize your streaming royalties, you’ve got to dig deep into your music online analytics (it’s worth it, believe me).

Platforms like Spotify for Artists, Apple Music for Artists, and YouTube Analytics give insights into who’s listening, when, and where. 

Use this data to tweak your promotion strategies, like targeting specific cities with paid ads and releasing music when your audience is most active.

Or, pitching to playlists that align with your listeners’ preferences as we talked about earlier.

The more you understand your target audience, the more you can drive more streams and, ultimately, make money from music, pretty simple.

#13. Run Fan Contests and Challenges

Running fan contests and challenges is an exciting way to increase engagement while also generating more money from music streams. 

For example, I once hosted a remix contest where my fans could download the stems of my latest single and create their own versions. 

It turned out to be a massive success actually, which I was super happy about.

Not only did this contest create a buzz, but it also led to more streams as fans shared their remixes across social media and any streaming platform (like YouTube Music). 

You can offer prizes like exclusive merch, signed copies of your albums, or even a virtual meet-and-greet to encourage participation. 

NOTE: The key is to make the contest easy to enter and share 一 ensuring it brings in more streams and builds loyalty among your music fans.

#14. Join the YouTube Partner Program

The YouTube Partner Program allows you to make money from music videos on your YouTube channel through:

• Ad revenue
• Memberships
• Super Chats during live streams

I joined the program a while back after reaching the required 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, actually.

It quickly became an additional revenue stream for my music career. 

You can maximize your earnings by creating consistent content, such as music videos, production breakdowns, or even behind-the-scenes footage from your studio sessions. 

Pairing these music videos with engaging thumbnails and compelling titles boosts views, which leads to more streams on YouTube Music online and other platforms.

 

Remember, the more engaging your music videos are, the more money from music you can generate from both streams and ad revenue.

#15. Optimize Your YouTube Channel

You absolutely have to be on point when it comes to optimizing your YouTube channel because it’s essential to make money from music streams.

And,  grow your online presence in the process too, of course.

You’ll want to start by creating a visually captivating channel with custom banners, thumbnails, and a solid bio that includes links to your streaming platforms. 

I’ve noticed that my most successful videos have strong titles that include keywords like “new release,” “official video,” or even specific music genres.

This always helps improve visibility on streaming sites like YouTube Music. 

Just be sure to organize your videos into playlists, like “Official Music Videos” or “Live Performances,” which makes it easier for viewers to binge-watch.

As well as increase your total watch hours, which is required.

Consistency is key here, people…

So whether you’re releasing music videos or even tutorials on music production, the more regular you are, the more you’ll see more streams and ad revenue rolling in.

• Bonus: Register with PROs for International Royalties

Registering with Performance Rights Organizations (PROs) is a must for collecting performance royalties from your music streams around the world. 

Joining organizations like ASCAP, BMI, or PRS will help you earn more money from music, not just from streams, but also from radio play, TV, and public performances. 

It’s key to register each of your songs with these PROs to ensure you get paid every time your music is played in public, whether it’s on music streaming services like: 

• Spotify
• Live performances
• Sync placements in visual media

Don’t overlook international collections either…

Partner with PROs that have reciprocal agreements globally, so you don’t miss out on future royalties from your tracks streaming platform in other countries. 

This process can take a bit of time unfortunately, but it’s worth it because it adds yet another reliable streaming revenue.

Side note, if you want to learn how to take advantage of Spotify royalties, we got you.

#16. Create Subscription-Based Fan Communities

Subscription-based communities are a fantastic way to build a more predictable revenue stream, so to speak, while offering fans exclusive content and experiences. 

Platforms like Patreon or Buy Me A Coffee (love that name) let you offer fans early access to new music, behind-the-scenes videos, or even personalized music lessons. 

I’ve used Patreon to offer tiers where subscribers can access everything from unreleased tracks to video tutorials on how I produce my music. 

This not only creates a steady income but also strengthens fan loyalty, as fans feel like they’re part of a private, inner circle. 

Just remember to keep your offerings fresh; whether it’s an exclusive live stream or a monthly Q&A, keep your music fans engaged and coming back for more.

#17. Release Instrumentals

Releasing instrumentals and remixes of your songs is a pretty simple yet insanely effective way to generate more streams and make your tracks more versatile. 

I’ve found that instrumentals, especially lo-fi or type beats, often get picked up by music libraries for use in videos, podcasts, and even study playlists.

This will, of course, lead to more money from music. 

Remixes, on the other hand, allow you to collaborate with other producers and many artists around the world.

It will get you a bigger audience and enhance your presence across multiple streaming platforms (which will help you earn money quicker).

You can even submit these versions to music streaming services like Spotify or YouTube Music, creating additional revenue streams from the same source material. 

The key is to promote these alternate versions just as you would with the original release, making sure they reach your target audience and drive more streams.

Final Thoughts

As I mentioned earlier, making money from music streams is certainly not the easiest thing to do nowadays.

And, learning how to make money from music streams is no easy feat either.

It’s a super competitive field where you’re up against countless other artists, and streaming payout rates are lower than ever. 

You also have to make sure your releases stand out, land on the right playlists, and are promoted across different platforms all day.

It’s not really about one big break but rather about building multiple income streams over time.

But luckily, using these tips and tricks about how to make money from music streams will help make sure that you’re locking down some extra income consistently.

You have to stay committed and constantly hustle to shine over the competition.

To make your tracks stand out and definitely shine over anybody else, you’ve got to check out this legendary, show-stopping Free LoFi Drum Kit.

It includes over 40 premium-quality samples and loops (like kicks, snares, hi-hats, and MIDI stems) all 100% royalty-free and created by the world’s best.

This kit is an invaluable addition, designed to help your music hit that pro level of quality with sounds inspired by modern lofi and chill-hop. 

I picked this specific pack because I know I mentioned LoFi music a bunch because I’ve made a lot of money from my lo-fi streaming and I threw it in there a few times today.

Bottom line, if you want your tracks to make it onto top playlists and impress listeners (and even industry big-wigs), these sounds can really set you apart.

So, after learning how to make money from music streams with these techniques, you’ll be able to build a solid income stream from your music. 

Whether you’re just starting out or already in the game, all of the things we talked about today will help you leverage every opportunity and gain recognition.

Just don’t ever stop being motivated and spreading good music even if it’s hard to make money from it at first; the world needs it.

Until next time…