How to Earn Money Making Music : 21 Proven Ways with Examples and Tips

Introduction

Wondering how to earn money making music? You’re not alone. Today, more musicians than ever are looking for smart and creative ways to turn their passion into a reliable income. The good news? There are countless opportunities out there — if you know where to look.

In this guide, we’ll share 21 proven ways to make money with your music, including real-life examples, practical tips, and insider advice to help you get started. Whether you’re a producer, singer-songwriter, band member, DJ, or beatmaker, these strategies are designed to help you build a sustainable music career on your own terms. From streaming royalties and music licensing to teaching online, selling merch, or getting paid for live shows — discover how independent artists around the world are creating multiple income streams and building a life around music.

Ready to learn how to monetize your music and take your career to the next level? Let’s dive in.

1. Perform Live Gigs: A Timeless Way to Earn Money Making Music

Live gigs are a cornerstone for musicians to earn money while connecting with fans. Whether at local venues, weddings, or festivals, performances offer exposure, build loyalty, and create income.

Examples:

• Ed Sheeran started with pub gigs before selling out stadiums.
• Local bands perform at restaurants or private events to grow their brand and audience.

Guidelines to Get Started:

• Start Small: Play at open mic nights, local events, or community spaces.
• Network: Build connections with venue owners and other musicians.
• Promote Yourself: Use social media to announce gigs, share updates, and sell tickets.
• Enhance Earnings: Sell merch or collect tips during performances.

2. Teach Music Lessons: Turn Your Skills into a Steady Income

Teaching music is a fulfilling way to share your expertise while earning a consistent income. Whether in-person or online, music lessons can provide immediate earnings and long-term passive income.

Examples:

• Teach beginner piano or guitar lessons locally.
• Offer virtual classes or pre-recorded courses online.

Guidelines to Get Started:

• Attract Students: Offer a free or discounted trial session.
• Expand Online: Use platforms like TakeLessons, Lessonface, or Fiverr.
• Build Passive Income: Sell video lessons on Udemy or Teachable.

3. Sell Merchandise: Boost Your Income and Build Your Brand

Selling merchandise is a great way to connect with fans and generate additional income while promoting your brand.

Examples:

• Taylor Swift pairs album releases with exclusive merch.
• Indie artists sell shirts, CDs, or signed posters at gigs and online.

Guidelines to Get Started:

• Start Small: Offer T-shirts, stickers, or caps.
• Use Print-on-Demand: Services like Printful or Teespring eliminate upfront costs.
• Sell Everywhere: Use platforms like Bandcamp, Shopify, or your own website.

4. Stream Your Music: Earn Royalties and Build a Global Fanbase

Streaming platforms have revolutionized how musicians earn money. With every play, you earn royalties and grow your reach globally.

Examples:

• Billie Eilish gained popularity through Spotify playlists.
• Chance the Rapper leveraged streaming to reach millions.

Guidelines to Maximize Streams:

• Distribute Widely: Use services like DistroKid or TuneCore.
• Boost Visibility: Encourage playlist adds and submit tracks to curators.
• Stay Consistent: Release music regularly.

5. Digital Sales: Keep More Profits by Selling Your Music Directly

While streaming offers exposure, selling digital downloads directly can offer higher profit margins and exclusive fan experiences.

Examples:

• Bandcamp allows artists to set their own pricing.
• Many artists offer exclusive singles, bundles, or limited releases on their own sites.

Guidelines to Boost Digital Sales:

• Offer Value: Bundle your music with artwork, bonus content, or merch.
• Incentivize Buyers: Offer discounts or exclusives.
• Promote Actively: Use social media and newsletters.

6. Monetize Your YouTube Channel: Turn Views into Revenue

YouTube offers multiple monetization options for musicians, from ad revenue to sponsorship deals and fan memberships.

Examples:

• Lindsey Stirling posts music videos and tutorials, earning ad revenue and fan memberships.
• Many guitarists post “how-to-play” tutorials attracting millions of views.

Guidelines:

• Create Quality Content: Upload regularly with engaging video and audio quality.
• Enable Monetization: Turn on YouTube Partner Program features like ads and memberships.
• Collaborate: Partner with other YouTubers to grow your audience.

7. Crowdfunding Campaigns: Fund Your Music Directly with Fan Support

Crowdfunding empowers musicians to finance projects like albums, videos, or tours by directly engaging fans.

Examples:

• Amanda Palmer raised over $1 million on Kickstarter to fund her album.
• Patreon enables artists to offer exclusive content for monthly support.

Guidelines:

• Offer Creative Rewards: Signed merch, VIP access, or exclusive tracks.
• Be Transparent: Share goals, progress, and updates regularly.
• Promote Widely: Use social media and email marketing to reach fans.

8. License Your Music: Earn by Placing Tracks in Media

Licensing music for commercials, films, TV shows, or games offers lucrative and passive income opportunities.

Examples:

• “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” has been licensed repeatedly for ads and films.
• Platforms like Musicbed and Songtradr connect musicians with brands.

Guidelines:

• Use Licensing Platforms: Join Songtradr, Musicbed, or AudioJungle.
• Create Marketable Music: Instrumentals or mood-specific tracks work well.
• Register with a PRO: Collect royalties through ASCAP or BMI.

9. Session Work: Get Paid to Record or Perform for Others

Session musicians contribute their skills to recordings, albums, and live performances for other artists and producers.

Examples:

• Studio musicians perform on pop, rock, or jazz records.
• Vocalists provide backing vocals or harmonies for tracks.

Guidelines:

• Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills with sample recordings.
• Network Locally & Online: Use platforms like SoundBetter.
• Offer Remote Services: Record from home and deliver digital files worldwide.

10. Music Production Services: Help Artists Create Professional-Grade Music

Music producers assist artists with recording, mixing, mastering, and sound design.

Examples:

• Freelance producers help indie artists elevate their songs.
• Legendary producers like Rick Rubin built careers working across genres.

Guidelines:

• Invest in Equipment: Use quality DAWs like Ableton, Logic Pro, or Pro Tools.
• Offer Comprehensive Packages: Bundle mixing, mastering, or sound design.
• Advertise Online: Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or SoundBetter are great for finding clients.

11. Write Music Reviews or Blogs: Monetize Your Passion for Music Writing

Music blogging allows you to share your opinions, support artists, and generate income through content creation.

Examples:

• Sites like Pitchfork generate revenue from ads and sponsorships.
• Independent bloggers use affiliate links for music gear or courses.

Guidelines:

• Start Writing: Use free platforms like Medium or WordPress.
• Learn SEO: Optimize content for search engines.
• Partner with Brands: Write sponsored posts or reviews.

12. Compose for Commercials or Online Games: Monetize Your Creativity

Writing music for commercials, games, and films is a lucrative way to generate income while showcasing creativity.

Examples:

• John Williams built a career composing for films like Star Wars.
• Indie game developers hire musicians for custom soundtracks.

Guidelines:

• Build a Portfolio: Showcase versatile compositions.
• Use Licensing Platforms: Join AudioJungle, Pond5, or Music Vine.
• Contact Developers: Pitch directly to indie game creators and agencies.

13. Music Therapy: Help Others Heal Through the Power of Music

Music therapy combines musical knowledge with healthcare, helping people overcome emotional or physical challenges.

Examples:

• Therapists assist stroke patients in regaining motor skills.
• Music therapy supports autism treatment and stress reduction.

Guidelines:

• Get Certified: Complete an accredited music therapy program.
• Gain Experience: Intern with hospitals or community centers.
• Specialize: Focus on specific groups like seniors or children.

14. Music Festivals and Workshops: Educate and Connect While Earning

Hosting events like workshops or festivals allows you to share your expertise while creating multiple revenue streams.

Examples:

• Songwriting camps connect musicians for collaboration.
• Workshops focus on music production, marketing, or performance skills.

Guidelines:

• Define Your Audience: Target beginners, professionals, or genre-specific artists.
• Collaborate: Partner with other experts or local venues.
• Promote: Use social media and email campaigns.

15. Songwriting for Other Musicians: Craft Hits Behind the Scenes

Songwriters provide original compositions for artists looking for fresh material or chart-topping hits.

Examples:

• “Umbrella” by Rihanna was co-written by professional songwriters.
• “Someone Like You” by Adele involved co-writing partnerships.

Guidelines:

• Create a Demo Reel: Showcase your songwriting skills.
• Network: Connect with producers, artists, and publishers.
• Use Online Platforms: Find clients through SongwriterLink or SoundBetter.

16. Sell Vintage Cassettes, CDs, and Vinyl Records: Tap Into Nostalgia for Profit

The resurgence of physical media gives musicians a chance to monetize retro formats like vinyl, CDs, and cassettes.

Examples:

• Vinyl records have seen a surge in sales worldwide.
• Indie artists release limited-edition cassettes for collectors.

Guidelines:

• Offer Quality: Use high-quality pressings or rare collectibles.
• Create Limited Editions: Sign or number items for exclusivity.
• Sell Online & Offline: Use platforms like Discogs, Bandcamp, or local fairs.

17. Host or Stream Live Music Shows: Bring Your Performances Online

Streaming performances allows you to reach global audiences while monetizing your music through tips, subscriptions, and ticket sales.

Examples:

• Artists use Twitch, YouTube Live, and Instagram to connect with fans.
• Platforms like StageIt let musicians host ticketed live concerts.

Guidelines:

• Choose a Platform: Twitch, YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram Live.
• Enable Monetization: Tips, subscriptions, exclusive content.
• Promote: Announce events early via social media and email lists.

18. Affiliate Music Marketing: Earn by Recommending Gear

Affiliate marketing allows you to earn a commission when your followers buy music gear or software through your recommendations.

Examples:

• Musicians use affiliate links on YouTube, blogs, or social media.
• Reviews and tutorials are popular formats for affiliate content.

Guidelines:

• Join Affiliate Programs: Amazon, Sweetwater, or music software providers.
• Promote Authentically: Only recommend products you trust.
• Use Analytics: Track clicks and optimize content for conversions.

19. Transcribe Songs into Sheet Music: Serve a Niche Market

Offering transcription services helps musicians, educators, and students who need accurate sheet music for songs.

Examples:

• Choirs and bands need custom arrangements for performances.
• Musicians want lead sheets or full scores of their songs.

Guidelines:

• Use Software: Finale, Sibelius, or MuseScore.
• Advertise Services: Use Fiverr, Upwork, or a personal website.
• Provide Flexible Formats: Offer PDF or editable files.

20. Play Music Mixes as a DJ: Spin Tracks and Earn Steady Income

DJing events is a popular way to earn consistent income while sharing your love of music.

Examples:

• DJs play weddings, private parties, clubs, and festivals.
• Many DJs offer custom playlists or themed sets.

Guidelines:

• Learn the Basics: Use software like Serato DJ or Rekordbox.
• Invest in Gear: Good mixers, headphones, and speakers.
• Promote Locally: Partner with event planners or advertise online.

21. Instrument Repair and Tuning Services: Earn by Keeping Instruments in Top Shape

Offering instrument repair or tuning services helps musicians maintain their gear while providing you with a steady source of income.

Examples:

• Guitar repair: string changes, setup, electronics fixes.
• Piano tuning services for schools and musicians.

Guidelines:

• Develop Skills: Take courses or apprenticeships.
• Advertise Locally: Partner with music schools or local stores.
• Offer On-site Services: Mobile repair can increase demand.