Ultimate Guide to Making Money in Music (34 Proven Ways!)

Making money in music, despite what you may hear, is certainly not impossible. If you know the right ways, that is. 

Today, we’re breaking down 34 proven ways to make money in the music industry so you can elevate your music career and achieve financial success. 

As a musician, artist, or producer, the following strategies can help you seriously boost your income and expand your opportunities.

In today’s article to making money in music, we’ll break down different methods like:

• Making money in music quickly ✓
• Streaming royalties and digital downloads ✓
• Live performances and merchandise ✓
• Sync licensing and publishing royalties ✓
• YouTube music/ad revenue and fan subscriptions ✓
• Music lessons and masterclasses ✓
• Session musician work and music production ✓
• Mixing and mastering services ✓
• Selling your music online ✓
• DJing and composing music ✓
• Sound design and podcasting ✓
• Affiliate marketing and music reviews ✓
• Brand partnerships and music competitions ✓
• Much more about making money in music ✓

By the end of this article, you’ll have so many ideas on making money in music you’ll be ready to implement them right away and start seeing results. 

Plus, you’ll be able to diversify your income streams and build a sustainable music career while doing what you love. 

So, let’s dive in and explore these 34 ways to making money in music…

Making Money in Music Is NOT Impossible

Making money in music is not just a dream, it can become a reality. The music industry offers so many different ways to monetize your talents, so let’s jump right in so you can choose which one best fits your unique skill set.

#1. Streaming Royalties (Spotify, Apple Music, Etc.)

With the surge of streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music, artists and producers like yourself have countless new avenues to earn revenue. 

By distributing your tracks through digital distributors like DistroKid or TuneCore, you can get your music on these platforms and start earning streaming royalties fast.

Promoting your music online, especially on social media platforms and through music blogs, can seriously boost your streams on different streaming services. 

As long as you stay dedicated and persistent, that is, because you have to keep your audience engaged and it can lead to more streams over time. 

Playlists also play a key role 一 getting featured on popular playlists can skyrocket your streaming numbers and, in turn, your earnings. 

Just remember that it’s essential to understand how all the different streaming services pay out royalties, as they’re all unique. 

Remember, every stream counts towards making money in music from your own music, so promotion is the name of the game.

#2. Digital Downloads

Even in the age of streaming, digital downloads remain a viable revenue stream.

Selling digital downloads of your songs on different platforms can provide some extra income, like: 

• Bandcamp
• Ditto
• iTunes
• Even your own website

Keep in mind that exclusive content or bonus tracks can entice your music fans to purchase when you sell music online, so make sure to get creative.

Keeping your digital music library updated ensures your audience stays engaged, and high-quality cover art and detailed track descriptions can make your digital downloads really pop off. 

Plus, email marketing campaigns can notify your fans about new releases and exclusive offers 一 so don’t slack on this end either.

And bonus, this approach to making money in music not only helps in selling your tracks but also strengthens your relationship with your audience (which is key).

#3. Live Performances

Performing live music as independent musicians is one of the most rewarding ways to make money as a musician. 

Try booking gigs at:

• Concerts
• Festivals
• Corporate events

To maximize your opportunities, connect with local music venues and promoters, but always remember that, to maximize this, you’ll need some hype around your music.

This is where your social media platforms will come in 一 they’re invaluable for promoting your shows and selling tickets directly to your fans. 

Just don’t forget to register with organizations like ASCAP or BMI to collect live performance royalties. 

NOTE: Engaging with your audience during performances can boost merch sales and gain fan loyalty, so always make them feel appreciated.

Remember, live gigs are about more than just immediate income; they help expand your fan base and build lasting connections.

#4. Merchandise

Merchandise is a fantastic way to pump up your income while promoting your brand and make more money. 

From T-shirts and hoodies to posters and custom items, merch offers many different revenue streams.

Set up an online store on your website or platforms like Shopify to reach a broader audience, and make sure your products are on point and captivating.

Limited edition or signed items can drive merch sales, as fans love exclusive memorabilia, of course.

Don’t slack when it comes to promoting your merchandise on social media and during live performances to maximize visibility. 

Also, collaborate with graphic designers to create eye-catching designs that resonate with your unique music fans (as they’re all different)

Bottom line, merchandise not only generates income but also strengthens your brand identity as a whole.

#5. Sync Licensing

Sync licensing is a super intriguing lane if you’re attempting to get your music featured on:

• TV shows
• Movies
• Commercials
• Video games
• Etc.

Register your music with a music library or sync agency to increase your chances of landing these opportunities, because it definitely is competitive.

Networking with music supervisors and A&R reps who select tracks for various media projects is essential. 

Offering high-quality recordings and maintaining a diverse catalog can make your music more appealing for sync placements 一 so don’t be basic and include everything.

Sync licensing deals not only provide immediate income but also expose your music to new audiences, and these placements can lead to additional opportunities and money.

As your music gets featured, you should see a spike in streams and downloads on top of it, so that’s also a plus.

#6. Publishing Royalties

Publishing royalties come from the rights to your compositions and can be a steady income source. 

These royalties are collected whenever your music is performed publicly (hence how you collect public royalties), broadcasted, or used in other formats. 

Again, registering with a performing rights organization (PRO) like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC is non-negotiable to ensure you receive these royalties. 

Make sure to register all your songs with the PRO to track and collect royalties effectively. 

Collaborating with other artists and getting your music featured in various projects can increase your publishing royalties. 

Regularly updating your catalog with new compositions keeps your revenue streams active and beneficial.

Publishing royalties are essential for long-term sustainability in the music business.

Side note, if you want to learn all about different royalties (e.g., publishing royalties, mechanical royalties, etc.), we’ve got you covered.

#7. YouTube Ad Revenue

Starting a YouTube channel can significantly boost your income through ad revenue, and by joining the YouTube Partner Program, you can monetize your:

• Songs/music videos
• Beats
• Tutorials
• Other content

Focus on creating high-quality, engaging videos that attract a large audience. 

Consistently uploading content and interacting with your viewers helps grow your channel. 

Use SEO techniques and relevant keywords to increase your video’s visibility and drive more views to your unique songs.

Collaborate with other musicians or influencers to expand your reach and attract more subscribers. 

Leveraging YouTube ad revenue is an effective way to diversify your music career income and promote your music videos or what have you, so don’t overlook it.

#8. Online Music Lessons

Teaching online music lessons (whether in person or online) is a rewarding way to earn money. 

So, if you’re versed enough, you can offer lessons in:

• Instruments
• Vocals/songwriting
• Music production techniques
• Mixing and mastering
• Sound design
• Etc.

Platforms like Zoom or Skype facilitate online lessons 一 allowing you to reach students globally and really enhance your overall appeal.

Advertise your services on social media, your website, or local community boards to attract students. 

Offering group lessons or workshops can also increase your income potential. 

Providing high-quality, personalized instruction can lead to long-term students and positive word-of-mouth referrals (which is still the number one way to promote!).

When you teach music lessons, it won’t only generate income, but it’ll let you share your passion, knowledge, and skills with other musicians, and that’s just plain awesome.

#9. Workshops and Masterclasses

Piggy-backing off of #8, hosting workshops and masterclasses can be highly profitable and help solidify you as a true player in the music industry.

These events can be held in person or online, covering various topics like how to write songs, music production, or music theory and sheet music. 

Make sure to, as we touched upon, always promote your workshops to attract participants through: 

• Social media
• Email marketing
• Music blogs

Try offering a mix of free and paid sessions, as it can build a following and convert people into paying customers. 

NOTE: Providing valuable, expert information ensures people will find your workshops worthwhile, and with people having the attention span of a fly, this is key.

This not only generates income but also helps you build your brand and expand your network within the music industry. 

And remember, engaging with your audience during these sessions can also lead to further opportunities for your own music or services.

#10. Session Musician

Working as a session musician involves playing instruments or singing for other artists’ recordings, which can be a pretty lucrative gig. 

Networking with producers, musicians, and recording studios helps you find session work or maybe even get a record deal 一 you never know. 

Platforms like Fiverr or Upwork can also be effective in attracting clients…

Just make sure you’re constantly delivering high-quality recordings and maintaining a professional attitude are key for success in this field. 

Building a strong portfolio of your work showcases your knowledge and increases your chances of securing more gigs/jobs. 

Being a session musician not only provides income but also helps you develop your skills and expand your connections in the music industry. 

Remember, each music project adds to your experience and reputation.

Side note, if you want to learn all about different record deals or how to get signed to a record label in the first place, we’ve got you covered.

#11. Music Production

Offering music production services can be a rewarding way to use your skills and make money as a musician in the process (win-win, am I right?).

This includes: 

• Recording
• Arranging
• Effects & techniques
• Various producing tasks for musical artists
• Etc.

Setting up a professional home studio can help you offer competitive rates and attract more clients.

 

Promote your services through your personal website, social media, and music blogs to reach a wider audience and gain more fans.

High-quality work and excellent customer service can lead to repeat business and positive referrals. 

Music production not only generates income but also allows you to stay involved in the creative process and collaborate with other artists. 

And remember, building a solid reputation as a producer can open up even more opportunities and really get your name out there.

#12. Mixing and Mastering

Specializing in mixing and mastering can be a highly profitable niche within the music industry, which people are always looking for.

Offering these services to other musicians can help them achieve professional-sounding tracks and help establish you as a professional. 

Always make sure to provide sample mixes or mastering examples to showcase your skills to potential clients, as they’ll definitely want to see your work beforehand.

NOTE: Competitive rates and quick turnaround times can help you stand out in the market, so don’t be slacking off.

Mixing and mastering not only help when it comes to making money in music, but will ultimately help you refine your skills and stay updated with the latest industry trends. 

This specialization can lead to long-term client relationships and consistent work.

#13. DJing

DJing at clubs, parties, and events offers a fun and profitable way to make money with music (if you have the skills and hustle, that is).

Make sure your playlist is always diverse, engaging, and current 一 it will help attract a wider audience and hopefully open the doors in unique ways.

Promote your DJ services through social media, your website, and local event boards to reach potential clients. 

NOTE: Offering to DJ at corporate events or weddings can provide additional income streams. 

Investing in high-quality DJ equipment and learning advanced techniques can enhance your performance and reputation. 

DJing not only provides immediate income but also helps you build a huge following and create memorable experiences for your audience. 

Each event can lead to more bookings and networking opportunities.

#14. Composing

Composing original music for various media outlets can be a highly financially-rewarding way to earn money in music. 

This includes creating music for: 

• Video games
• Films
• TV shows
• Advertisements 
• Etc.

Networking with directors, game developers, and advertising agencies can help you find these opportunities, so make sure to stay super active.

Getting your compositions on music libraries can also help you with making money in music and keep your name on peoples’ radars.

You always want your compositions to be professional, high-quality, and versatile, plus make your music more appealing for different projects. 

Composing not only generates income but also allows you to express your creativity and reach new audiences through different media.

Side note, applying for music grants is also super beneficial, so don’t overlook it.

#15. Sound Design

Making money in music from sound design involves creating sound effects and sick audio elements for various media (films, video games, apps, etc.).

Offering your services on freelance platforms or through your own website can attract clients in need of unique soundscapes. 

Building a diverse portfolio of your work showcases your skills and attracts more opportunities, and make sure to always keep evolving.

You can find some pretty unique and innovative sound design gigs by linking up with:

• Game developers
• Filmmakers
• App developers

Sound design not only generates income but also allows you to contribute to the creative process of different projects and become a highly-respected contender.

Make sure that you’re staying updated with the latest sound design tools and techniques, it will enhance your appeal.

If you want to discover the #1 sound design course in the industry, look no further.

#16. Podcasting

Creating a music podcast can be an engaging way to make money in music and build a loyal audience by:

• Discussing music-related topics
• Interviewing other musicians
• Sharing your own experiences

Monetize your podcast through sponsorships, advertising, and listener donations. 

Also, make sure to promote your podcast on social media, your website, and podcast directories to grow your listener base. 

Providing valuable and engaging content ensures that your audience stays tuned in and supports your efforts. 

Podcasting not only generates income but also helps you build your brand, sell music, and connect with your audience on a deeper level. 

Consistent episodes and high-quality production can lead to sustained success.

#17. Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing involves promoting music gear/music equipment, software, and services for a commission on sales. 

Joining affiliate programs of music companies and promoting their products through your website, social media, and YouTube channel can generate significant income. 

You’ll need to build trust with your audience, which can be done by:

• Providing honest reviews
• Tutorials
• Demonstrations

Utilizing SEO techniques increases your content’s visibility and attracts more clicks and sales 一 and that’s what it’s all about.

Music affiliate marketing not only generates passive income but also allows you to share your recommendations and expertise with other musicians. 

Regularly updating your content with new products and promotions keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more (plus help you make money with music, of course).

#18. Music Reviews and Blogs

Writing music reviews and blogs is also a great way to be making money in music, but you’ll need to monetize it through advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. 

Providing high-quality, engaging content attracts a loyal readership and drives traffic to your music website, which will hopefully equal more cash.

Promoting your blog through social media and various SEO techniques increases your visibility and audience, so don’t slack on the research as well.

Offering guest posts or collaborations with other musicians and bloggers expands your reach and network. 

Music reviews and blogs not only generate income but also help you establish yourself as an authority in the music industry and boost your music career. 

Consistent, well-written content can lead to long-term success and recognition 一 if you’re not committed, this may not be the way to go.

#19. Become a Music Influencer

Becoming a music influencer on social media platforms can help you with making money in music (if you’re creative enough), like TikTok, YouTube, Twitch, etc.

Sharing your music, behind-the-scenes content, and collaborations can attract a large following 一 people love feeling like VIPs.

Again, make sure to monetize your influence through: 

• Brand partnerships
• Sponsorships
• Affiliate marketing

Providing valuable, engaging content keeps your audience interested and growing, and networking with other hot influencers and musicians helps expand your reach.

And, in turn, will help with making money in music.

Being a music influencer not only generates income but also helps you build your brand and connect with your fans on a personal level. 

Just remember, this is ALL about consistency, and will take over most of your life, so make sure you’re ready to go all in.

#20. Soundtracks

Scoring soundtracks for video games, films, and TV shows opens up a world of creative and unique possibilities. 

First, immerse yourself in the world of media production by studying the soundtracks of successful projects and understanding what makes them impactful. 

Then, create a demo reel that show off your ability to create music that enhances visual storytelling. 

Just remember networking is key, so make sure to attend: 

• Film festivals
• Game developer conferences
• Industry mixers 

This way, you can connect with directors and other producers who might need your services. 

Joining online communities such as the Game Audio Network Guild (GANG) can also help you find opportunities and collaborators. 

Offering your services on platforms like HitRecord or Filmstro can connect you with indie projects needing custom scores. 

NOTE: Always stay updated with the latest trends in sound design and music production to keep your sounds fresh and relevant.

Soundtrack composition not only provides a steady income but also allows you to leave a lasting impression on different audiences through epic musical storytelling.

#21. Music Apps

Developing and selling music-related apps can help you with making money in music, which can include music apps for:

• Music production
• Songwriting
• Education
• Entertainment
• Ear training apps
• Etc.

Offering a free version with in-app purchases can increase your revenue and user engagement, as we touched upon earlier.

And remember to keep things high-quality and include user-friendly features 一 it’s a competitive market, but people don’t like when things are too complicated.

Developing music apps not only generates income but also allows you to innovate and contribute to the music industry. 

NOTE: Regular updates, bug fixes, and user feedback can help you improve and expand your app’s features, keeping things fresh.

#22. Virtual Concerts

Hosting virtual concerts (yes, even a living room concert) can be a great way to make money in music, especially in the digital age. 

Platforms like YouTube, Facebook Live, and Twitch allow you to perform live music for a global audience, which can be lucrative if you do things right.

And, as you know, performing music live can bring in some serious cash if you have the clout, through:

• Ticket sales
• Donations
• Merch
• Sponsorships
• Etc.

Promoting your concerts through social media and email marketing can attract even more viewers and increase your earnings. 

Just make sure your audio and video is on point, because it’s all about enhancing the concert experience for your audience.

Virtual concerts not only generate income but also allow you to connect with your fans worldwide.

#23. Sample Packs and Loops

Creating and selling sample packs and loops is a great way to make money as a musician because people are always looking for new, fresh sounds.

Plus, with all these hybrid genres, the possibilities are truly endless.

Try offering your samples on platforms like Splice, Loopmasters and, of course, your own website. 

Make sure your samples are always on point and sound professional, otherwise people will go other places for their sounds.

You’ll want to do everything to attract more buyers, so don’t forget about the exclusive content or bundles that really blow people away.

You can even do holiday-themed sounds for around those times.

Sample packs and loops not only generate income but also allow you to contribute to the music business as a whole and blow the competition away.

#24. Music Licensing Platforms

Submitting your music to licensing platforms like AudioJungle can generate some extra passive income. 

They do so by connecting your music with clients looking for a certain sound, so you want to be as versatile and flexible as possible.

Each platform has its unique submission process and audience, so make sure to tweak your submissions accordingly. 

Also, make sure your music is high-quality and professionally mixed, as this will increase your chances of acceptance and selection. 

NOTE: Tag your tracks with relevant keywords and descriptions to improve discoverability on these platforms. 

Regularly updating your catalog with fresh tracks keeps your portfolio relevant and increases your chances of getting licensed. 

Additionally, consider offering different versions of your tracks (e.g., instrumental, shorter cuts) to cater to various client needs. 

#25. Brand Partnerships

Collaborating with brands for marketing campaigns can be a solid way to make money in music and get your music out there.

Brands often look for musicians to promote their products and services, and they’re looking for the very best.

Meaning, you’ll need to really up your game if you’re hoping to break ahead of the competition, so try submitting your music for:

• Commercials
• Social media campaigns
• Different events

You can get ahead if you build a strong relationship with marketing agencies and brand representatives 一 always be on your A game when talking to them though.

Bottom line, brand partnerships not only help with making money in music, but can really skyrocket your appeal and gain new fans.

#26. Music Competitions

Participating in music competitions, like remix contests, can be a great way to make money in music because many of them offer:

• Cash prizes
• Recording contracts/getting signed to a record label
• Exclusive collabs
• Studio time
• Etc.

The opportunities are actually pretty abundant if you stay razor focused and promote your participation through social media/music blogs.

You want a huge following because support (and every vote) is a way to stay ahead 一 it will increase your chances of winning and gaining exposure. 

Even if you don’t win, you can connect with other participants, or even judges, to open up some new opportunities in the music industry.

Music competitions not only generate income but also help you gain credibility and recognition for long-term success.

#27. Crowdsourcing Projects

Collaborating on crowdsourced music projects can be a fun and profitable way to make money in music, but it’s not going to help you retire any time soon.

However, platforms like SoundBetter and Kompoz allow you to collaborate with other musicians and producers from around the world. 

So you potentially have endless ways for long-term money-making, especially if you’re offering your skills for recording, production, or songwriting.

Social media and different music production forums are key here, as that can seriously help attract more clients and projects.

Also, remember to have excellent communication which leads to repeat business, positive reviews, and great word-of-mouth.

#28. Ghostwriting

Ghostwriting songs for other artists or ghost production is actually a pretty great way to make money as a musician (albeit, without the credit).

To start, build a portfolio of diverse songs that showcase your ability to write in various styles and genres. 

Platforms like SoundBetter and Fiverr are great places to offer your ghostwriting services and connect with artists looking for new material. 

Networking with producers, record labels, and other musicians can help you find ghostwriting opportunities.

It’s essential to be adaptable and willing to write in the style requested by the client, whether it’s pop, rock, hip-hop, EDM, or any other genre. 

NOTE: Remember, confidentiality is key in ghostwriting, so always respect the artist’s privacy and the terms of your agreements. 

Ghostwriting not only provides a steady income but also hones your songwriting skills and opens doors to more high-profile projects as you build a reputation in the industry.

#29. Cover Songs

This one is pretty straightforward… performing and monetizing popular cover songs can be great when it comes to making money in music.

Upload your covers to YouTube and monetize them through: 

• Ads
• Sponsorships

Offering your covers on streaming platforms and trying to sell digital downloads can also generate income.

Providing high-quality, unique covers of popular songs can make them shine and attract attention (and make sure to promote like crazy on social media and music blogs).

Cover songs not only generate income but also help you reach new audiences and showcase your talent, so it’s a win all around.

#30. Custom Songs

Creating personalized songs for special occasions can be a super fun and profitable way to make money in music. 

This can include things like:

• Weddings
• Anniversaries
• Graduations
• Etc.

Promoting your services through your website, social media, and event planning forums can attract clients looking for custom songs. 

Providing high-quality, unique songs makes your work more appealing and likely to be chosen. 

NOTE: Offering different packages or add-ons can increase your sales and visibility. 

Consistent quality and personalized service can lead to long-term success.

#31. Online Music Courses & Music Videos

Creating and selling online music courses can be a super beneficial way to make money in music and prove that you know what you’re talking about.

Offer courses on topics like music production, sound design, songwriting, using new plugins, or music theory, or even work for one of the bigger course guys.

Just make sure that you really know that subject inside and out 一 people absolutely hate wasting time and money, and you don’t want negative reviews.

Platforms like Udemy, Teachable can help you reach a global audience and attract more students (and positive reviews). 

Promoting your courses through social media and email marketing can further increase your sales and visibility. 

Online music courses will not only help you with making money in music, but also help others enhance their own careers, which is super rewarding.

#32. Artist Management

Managing other artists’ careers can be a rewarding way to make money as a musician. 

This involves things like:

• Booking gigs
• Negotiating contracts
• Promoting their work
• Securing the bag however necessary

This is a great choice for those of you who have a lot of contacts and have been in the industry for a while.

You’ll need connects to really succeed here, so consider collabing with other artist managers to see how they got started.

Networking with artists, venues, and record labels helps you find these opportunities. 

Artist management not only generates income but also allows you to contribute to the success of other musicians.

Remember, consistent, dedicated service can lead to a successful career in artist management and help you gain bigger clients in the future.

#33. Music Consulting in The Music Industry

If you’re particularly gifted at certain aspects of the industry, this one is perfect for you, which includes:

• Marketing
• Production
• Career development

Providing high-quality, personalized advice makes your work more appealing and likely to be chosen, so make sure to give all your attention to each project.

If you believe in the phrase ‘don’t put all your eggs in one basket,’ I’m fairly sure this will help you make money, because you’ll need to always be doing a million things.

Consistent, valuable advice can lead to long-term success and recognition.

NOTE: You don’t have to have a degree to become a music consultant, but some sort of certificate usually helps you exceed here.

#34. Immersive Experiences

While this one is last on our list, I find it to be one of the most innovative and creative that, when done right, can skyrocket your bank account.

This involves using virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create interactive concerts and music experiences. 

And trust me, music is (unfortunately) heading this way, so make sure to get ahead of the pack in these fields; it’ll certainly pay off.

Platforms like Oculus and Magic Leap offer tools to develop and distribute immersive music content that can make you come out on top.

Just make sure to stay consistent and think outside of the back… I mean, the music business has come a long way since you had to sell CDs to cable TV/music channels.

Making Money in Music: Final Thoughts

Making money in music is more achievable than ever with the right strategies and dedication, which you now have access to.

The 34 different methods we broke down today is the key to diversifying your income streams and building a long-term music career.

From taking advantage of streaming royalties and digital downloads to offering online music courses and creating tracks for movies, you’ll find the right choice for you.

One of the most effective ways to earn a job-replacing income and break into the industry is through the #1 Affiliate Program available. 

By promoting high-quality, unique products that have helped over 220,000 producers create their best music, you can tap into the immense $30 million+ marketing power backing it. 

With a 50% commission across the board, it’s invaluable, so if you’re looking for the quickest way to make easy money, look no further.

So, use your newfound knowledge and take advantage of these diverse methods to maximize your overall earning potential. 

You’ll not only gain financial independence but also enjoy a fulfilling career doing what you love (which is what makes life worth it). 

Start today, and you’ll soon be laughing all the way to the bank.

Until next time…