The digital era has opened countless opportunities for musicians to make money online. Whether you’re an independent artist, producer, or songwriter, there are multiple ways to monetize your music. Here’s how you can start making money by creating and selling music online.
1. Sell Your Music on Streaming Platforms
Uploading your music to popular streaming services allows you to earn royalties every time someone listens to your track. Use digital distribution services like:
- DistroKid
- TuneCore
- CD Baby
- UnitedMasters
- Amuse
These platforms distribute your music to Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, and other streaming services. You get paid per stream, with Spotify paying approximately $0.003 – $0.005 per stream.
2. Sell Digital Downloads
While streaming is popular, some fans still prefer to purchase music directly. You can sell digital downloads on platforms like:
- Bandcamp – Allows you to set your price and receive direct payments from fans.
- Sellfy – An e-commerce platform where you can sell digital files, including music.
- Gumroad – Lets you sell digital music directly to your audience.
Selling music as downloads gives you full control over pricing and profits.
3. License Your Music for Sync & TV Placements
Music licensing is a great way to make money. You can license your music for:
- Movies and TV shows
- Video games
- Commercials and ads
- YouTube content
Websites where you can submit your music for licensing opportunities include:
- AudioJungle
- Pond5
- Songtradr
- Epidemic Sound
- Artlist
Sync licensing deals can generate hundreds to thousands of dollars per placement.
4. Sell Beats and Instrumentals
Producers can make a steady income by selling beats to artists. You can sell beats on platforms such as:
- BeatStars
- Airbit
- Traktrain
- Soundee
You can offer different licensing options, such as:
- Non-Exclusive License – Sell the same beat multiple times.
- Exclusive License – Sell a beat to one artist only for a higher price.
Prices for beats range from $30 to $500+, depending on exclusivity and demand.
5. Offer Custom Music and Jingles
Many businesses, podcasters, and YouTubers need custom music for branding. Offer your services on platforms like:
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- PeoplePerHour
You can create intros, outros, theme songs, or background music for clients. Rates vary from $50 to $1,000+ per project.
6. Monetize Your YouTube Channel
Create a YouTube channel where you upload your music, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes content. Monetization options include:
- Ad Revenue – Earn from ads displayed on your videos.
- YouTube Music Royalties – Get paid when people stream your music.
- Memberships & Super Chats – Allow fans to support you directly.
- Affiliate Marketing – Promote music gear and software for commissions.
7. Start a Patreon or Crowdfunding Campaign
Patreon allows fans to support you through monthly subscriptions in exchange for exclusive content. You can offer:
- Early access to new music
- Behind-the-scenes content
- Exclusive live streams
- Personalized shoutouts
Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and GoFundMe can help you fund your music projects.
8. Sell Merchandise
Create and sell music-related merchandise such as:
- T-shirts, hoodies, and hats
- Vinyl records and CDs
- Posters and stickers
Websites like Printful, Teespring, and Shopify make it easy to sell merch without handling inventory.
9. Teach Music Online
If you’re skilled in music production, songwriting, or playing an instrument, you can teach others online through:
- Selling Online Courses – Platforms like Udemy and Teachable allow you to create and sell music courses.
- Live Lessons – Offer one-on-one lessons via Zoom or Skype.
- YouTube Tutorials – Earn ad revenue by teaching music skills on YouTube.
10. Offer Music Subscriptions
Instead of selling single songs, offer a subscription model where fans pay a monthly fee for access to exclusive music. Platforms like Bandcamp Memberships allow you to do this.