How To Become a Music Artist and Make Money

Introduction.

Becoming a music artist is a dream for many people who have a passion for music. However, making a living as a musician can be a daunting task, and requires a combination of talent, hard work, and business savvy.

In today’s digital age, there are more opportunities than ever before to get your music heard by a wider audience, but the music industry is also highly competitive.

To become a successful music artist and make money, you need to be strategic in your approach and have a solid understanding of the industry.

In this article, we will explore some essential steps you can take to become a music artist and start earning a living from your music.

Who is a Music Artist?

A music artist, also known as a musician or a singer-songwriter, is a person who creates, performs, and records music.

They can be solo performers or part of a band, and they may specialize in a particular genre or style of music, such as pop, rock, jazz, or classical.

Music artists use their musical talents and skills to create and share their art with others, and they often have a passion for music that drives their work.

Music artists can also have a significant impact on culture and society, with their music serving as a means of expression and communication for people around the world.

Why Should I Become a Music Artist?

Music is an art form that has the power to touch people’s hearts and souls in a way that few other things can.

If you have a passion for music and are considering pursuing a career as a music artist, there are many compelling reasons to take the plunge.

In this article, we will explore some of the top reasons why you should become a music artist.

1. Express Yourself Creatively.

As a music artist, you have the opportunity to express yourself creatively and share your unique voice with the world.

Whether you write your songs or perform covers of your favourite artists, music provides a powerful outlet for self-expression that can be incredibly rewarding.

2. Connect with Others.

Music can bring people together in a way that few other things can. As a music artist, you have the opportunity to connect with others through your music, whether it’s by performing live shows or releasing your music online.

Music can help you build a community of like-minded people who share your love of music and can support you throughout your career.

3. Make a Difference.

Music has the power to inspire change and make a difference in the world. Many music artists use their platform to raise awareness of important social issues, promote positive messages, and inspire others to take action.

As a music artist, you have the opportunity to use your music to make a positive impact on the world around you.

4. Experience Personal Growth.

Pursuing a career as a music artist can be a challenging and rewarding experience that can help you grow both personally and professionally.

As you work to develop your craft and build your career, you will encounter new challenges and opportunities that can help you learn and grow as a person.

5. Make a Living Doing What You Love.

While pursuing a career as a music artist can be challenging, it is also possible to make a living doing what you love.

With the rise of digital music platforms and social media, there are more opportunities than ever before to share your music with a wider audience and build a successful career as a music artist.

How do I Become a Music Artist and Make Money?

Becoming a music artist can be an exciting and fulfilling career path, but it can also be challenging to make a living from your music.

With the rise of digital music platforms and social media, there are more opportunities than ever before to get your music heard by a wider audience, but the music industry is also highly competitive.

In this article, we will explore some essential steps you can take to become a music artist and start earning a living from your music.

1. Develop Your Musical Skills.

The first step in becoming a music artist is to develop your musical skills. Whether you play an instrument or sing, it’s important to spend time honing your craft and developing your unique sound.

Take lessons, practice regularly, and listen to a variety of music to broaden your musical horizons and inspire your work.

2. Choose a Music Genre.

A music genre is a category or classification of music that shares common characteristics, such as rhythm, melody, instrumentation, and cultural origin.

Examples of music genres include classical, rock, jazz, hip-hop, country, electronic, and many more.

Genres can be based on a variety of factors, such as the period in which the music was created, the geographic region from which it originated, the instruments used, the vocal style, the lyrics, and the intended audience.

Music genres often evolve and change over time as new styles and sounds emerge and existing genres merge and evolve.

3. Write and Record Your Music.

Once you have developed your musical skills, the next step is to write and record your music. Write songs that reflect your unique voice and style, and record them in a professional studio or with high-quality equipment at home.

You can also collaborate with other musicians to create music that is both unique and commercially viable.

4. Build Your Online Presence.

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for music artists. Create profiles on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and use them to share your music and connect with fans.

You can also use platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud to share your music with a wider audience and build a following.

5. Perform Live Shows.

Performing live shows is a great way to build your fan base and earn money as a music artist. Start by performing at local venues like coffee shops, bars, and clubs, and work your way up to larger venues and festivals.

You can also collaborate with other artists to create joint performances and events that can help you reach new audiences.

5. Use Music Distribution.

Music distribution refers to the process of getting your music out to listeners through various channels, such as streaming platforms, digital downloads, physical sales, and radio airplay.

Music distribution can be done independently or through a distribution company or record label. The distribution process involves getting your music to the right platforms and making it available for purchase or streaming and then promoting it to reach as many listeners as possible.

With the rise of digital music platforms, music distribution has become more accessible to independent artists, who can now reach a global audience with their music without the need for a record label.

However, artists need to choose the right distribution channels and marketing strategies to ensure their music reaches its intended audience and generates revenue.

Present-day music distribution platform utilises the same business model but on modern platform like iTunes, Spotify, Tidal, etc. Instead of mass-producing CDs and physical Album covers, Songs are taken to the platform mentioned above in just a few clicks.

Royalties are paid when your song is bought or heavily streamed. There are many music distribution services out there. Therefore, keeping 100% of your royalties is critical.

Please educate yourself on all their fees and what you’re getting into before deciding. Some say they don’t take a cut, but there are hidden fees in some cases. Do your research very well.

Below are some platforms you should explore.

1. Landr.

Landr is an online platform that provides a range of tools and services for musicians and audio professionals, including automated mastering, distribution, and sample packs.

As an AI-powered mastering service, Landr is particularly notable for its ability to quickly and efficiently master tracks with high-quality results.

One of the main advantages of Landr is its ease of use. The platform’s automated mastering process is fast and intuitive, requiring only a few clicks to upload a track and select the desired mastering options.

Landr’s AI algorithms analyze the audio and apply adjustments to enhance the sound quality and balance of the mix, resulting in a polished and professional-sounding track.

The mastering options can be customized to suit the specific needs of the track, such as adjusting the loudness level or applying EQ settings.

In addition to its mastering service, Landr also offers distribution services that allow artists to upload their tracks to popular streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal.

This can be a convenient and cost-effective way for independent musicians to get their music out to a wider audience and potentially generate revenue.

Another notable feature of Landr is its extensive library of sample packs, which can be used by producers and musicians to add unique sounds and textures to their tracks.

The sample packs cover a wide range of genres and styles and are produced by a team of experienced sound designers.

Landr is a valuable tool for musicians and audio professionals looking for an easy and efficient way to master their tracks, distribute their music, and access high-quality sample packs.

While there are limitations to automated mastering and some audio professionals may prefer more hands-on control over the mastering process, Landr’s AI algorithms and user-friendly interface make it a great option for anyone looking to improve the sound quality of their tracks with minimal effort.

TRY IT NOW – Landr.com

2. TuneCore.

Tunecore is an online music distribution and publishing platform that allows independent musicians and artists to distribute their music to a wide range of streaming platforms and digital retailers, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more.

The platform also offers publishing administration services, which can help artists collect royalties and manage their music copyrights.

One of the main advantages of Tunecore is its simplicity and ease of use. The platform offers a straightforward upload process for music distribution, with step-by-step guidance for artists to get their music onto popular streaming platforms and digital stores.

Additionally, Tunecore offers transparent pricing and no hidden fees, allowing artists to keep 100% of their royalties and earnings.

Another notable feature of Tunecore is its comprehensive distribution network. The platform partners with over 150 digital stores and streaming platforms worldwide, ensuring that artists can reach a global audience with their music.

Tunecore also offers valuable tools and resources to help artists promote their music and increase their visibility on streaming platforms, such as social media integration and access to analytics and data insights.

In addition to its music distribution services, Tunecore also offers publishing administration services, which can help artists manage their copyrights, collect royalties, and ensure they are being paid accurately for their music.

This can be a valuable service for independent artists who may not have the resources or expertise to manage their music publishing and royalties on their own.

Tunecore is a valuable platform for independent artists and musicians looking to distribute their music to a wider audience and manage their music publishing and royalties.

With its comprehensive distribution network, transparent pricing, and user-friendly interface, Tunecore is a great option for anyone looking to take control of their music career and reach new fans around the world.

TRY IT NOW – Tunecore.com

3. CD baby

CD Baby is an online music distribution platform that allows independent musicians and artists to distribute their music to a variety of digital retailers and streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more.

The platform also offers a range of additional services, such as physical distribution, music promotion, and sync licensing.

One of the main advantages of CD Baby is its comprehensive distribution network.

The platform partners with over 150 digital retailers and streaming platforms worldwide, ensuring that artists can reach a global audience with their music.

CD Baby also offers physical distribution services for CDs, vinyl, and other physical media, which can be a valuable option for artists looking to sell merchandise at live shows or through their website.

Another notable feature of CD Baby is its music promotion services.

The platform offers a range of promotional tools and resources to help artists increase their visibility and reach new fans, including social media and email marketing, playlist promotion, and press release distribution.

CD Baby also offers sync licensing services, which can help artists get their music placed in films, TV shows, commercials, and other media projects.

In addition to its distribution and promotion services, CD Baby also offers valuable resources and education for independent artists, including webinars, blog articles, and other educational materials.

This can be a great resource for artists who are just starting or looking to improve their music career.

CD Baby is a comprehensive and valuable platform for independent musicians and artists looking to distribute their music, promote their brand, and grow their fan base.

With its extensive distribution network, physical distribution options, music promotion services, and educational resources, CD Baby is a great option for anyone looking to take their music career to the next level.

TRY IT NOW – Cdbaby.com

4. Record Union.

Record Union is a digital music distribution platform that allows independent musicians and artists to distribute their music to a variety of streaming platforms and digital retailers, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more.

The platform also offers a range of additional services, such as music promotion, data analytics, and sync licensing.

One of the main advantages of Record Union is its user-friendly interface and straightforward distribution process.

The platform offers an easy-to-use dashboard that allows artists to upload their music and manage their distribution settings with ease.

Additionally, Record Union offers transparent pricing and no hidden fees, allowing artists to keep 100% of their royalties and earnings. Another notable feature of Record Union is its music promotion services.

Record Union also offers valuable data analytics and insights to help artists understand their audience and track their progress over time.

In addition to its distribution and promotion services, Record Union also offers sync licensing services, which can help artists get their music placed in films, TV shows, commercials, and other media projects.

This can be a valuable revenue stream for independent artists and a great way to increase their exposure to new audiences.

Record Union is a reliable and comprehensive platform for independent musicians and artists looking to distribute their music, promote their brand, and grow their fan base.

With its user-friendly interface, transparent pricing, music promotion services, data analytics, and sync licensing options, Record Union is a great option for anyone looking to take their music career to the next level.

TRY IT NOW – RecordUnion.com

5. Amuse.io

Amuse.io is a free digital music distribution platform that allows independent musicians and artists to distribute their music to a variety of streaming platforms and digital retailers, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more.

The platform also offers a range of additional services, such as music promotion, data analytics, and royalty tracking.

One of the main advantages of Amuse.io is its free pricing model. Unlike many other digital distribution platforms, Amuse.io does not charge any upfront fees or take a percentage of artists’ royalties.

This makes it an attractive option for independent artists who are just starting or looking to keep their expenses low.

Another notable feature of Amuse.io is its user-friendly interface and streamlined distribution process.

The platform offers an easy-to-use app that allows artists to upload their music and manage their distribution settings with ease.

Additionally, Amuse.io offers valuable data analytics and insights to help artists understand their audience and track their progress over time.

In addition to its distribution and analytics services, Amuse.io also offers music promotion tools and resources, including playlist pitching and social media promotion.

The platform also offers royalty tracking and payment services, ensuring that artists receive their earnings in a timely and transparent manner.

Overall, Amuse.io is a reliable and user-friendly platform for independent musicians and artists looking to distribute their music, promote their brand, and grow their fan base.

With its free pricing model, user-friendly interface, music promotion services, data analytics, and royalty tracking, Amuse.io is a great option for anyone looking to take their music career to the next level.

TRY IT NOW – Amuse.io

6. Monetize Your Music.

There are many ways to monetize your music as a music artist, from selling CDs and merchandise at live shows to licensing your music for use in TV shows, films, and commercials.

You can also earn money through digital music platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, which pay artists based on the number of streams their music receives.

7. Promote Your Music.

Promoting your music means getting the word out about your music to potential listeners, fans, and industry professionals.

It involves a range of activities and strategies aimed at increasing your visibility, building your brand, and growing your fan base.

Promotion can take many forms, including online and offline marketing, social media promotion, playlist pitching, press outreach, live performances, and more.

The goal of music promotion is to create buzz and generate interest in your music, ultimately leading to more streams, downloads, sales, and live performance opportunities.

Online promotion typically involves leveraging social media platforms, music blogs, and digital marketing channels to reach your target audience.

This might include creating engaging content, posting regularly on social media, engaging with your fans, reaching out to music bloggers and influencers, and running digital ad campaigns.

Offline promotion might involve playing live shows, distributing flyers and posters, doing radio interviews, and other forms of traditional marketing.

This can be especially effective for building a local following and establishing yourself in your local music scene.

Promoting your music is essential for building a successful music career. It takes time, effort, and creativity, but with the right strategies and tactics, you can increase your visibility, build your brand, and reach a wider audience. Here is how to promote your music

1. Use Social Media.

Social media has revolutionized the way musicians promote their music and connect with fans. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have made it easier than ever for artists to share their music, build a following, and reach new audiences. Here are some tips on how to use social media to promote your music career:

First, it’s important to choose the right platforms. Different platforms appeal to different audiences, so it’s important to choose the ones that are most popular among your target audience.

For example, if you’re a visual artist, Instagram and TikTok may be the best platforms to showcase your music videos and share behind-the-scenes content.

Next, make sure your profiles look professional and reflect your brand. Use high-quality images and videos, and make sure your bio accurately describes who you are and what you do.

You want to make a great first impression on potential fans and industry professionals who may be checking out your profiles.

One of the best ways to promote your music on social media is by sharing your music directly. You can share full tracks, music videos, or even short clips to tease new releases.

You can also share photos and videos from live shows and behind-the-scenes footage to give fans a glimpse into your life as an artist.

Engaging with your fans is crucial on social media. Respond to comments and messages from fans, and ask for feedback on your music. This can help you build a loyal following and improve your music.

I wrote a comprehensive guide on how to grow your brand and business using social media. Check out the link to the article to learn more.

2. Own a Website

Having a website as a music artist is a great way to establish a professional online presence and connect with fans. A website can serve as a hub for all of your online activities, including music releases, tour dates, and merch sales. Here are some of the benefits of having a website as a music artist:

First, a website gives you complete control over your online presence. Social media platforms can be great for reaching fans, but they can also be limiting. With your own website, you have the freedom to design it however you like and showcase your music and brand in the best way possible.

Second, a website can help you build your fanbase. By collecting email addresses on your website, you can create a mailing list to keep fans informed about new music, tour dates, and other updates. This can help you stay in touch with fans and build a loyal following.

Third, a website can help you promote your music and sell merch. You can sell digital downloads, physical CDs, vinyl, and other merchandise directly from your website. This can be a great way to generate revenue and connect with fans on a deeper level.

Fourth, a website can help you establish credibility as a music artist. Having a professional-looking website can help you stand out from the crowd and make a great first impression on fans and industry professionals.

Finally, a website can help you connect with fans on a more personal level. By sharing behind-the-scenes content, tour diaries, and other personal stories, you can build a deeper connection with your fans and create a sense of community.

I wrote a comprehensive guide on how to develop a website for your business. Check out the link to the article below to learn more.

3. Start a YouTube Channel.

Having a YouTube channel as a music artist is becoming increasingly popular in the digital age.

YouTube provides a platform for artists to showcase their music and connect with fans from all around the world.

It also allows artists to monetize their content through advertising revenue, merchandise sales, and other forms of revenue generation.

One of the biggest advantages of having a YouTube channel as a music artist is the ability to reach a global audience.

With over 2 billion active users, YouTube provides an opportunity for artists to get their music in front of people they might not have otherwise reached.

Additionally, YouTube’s algorithm suggests videos to users based on their search history, which means that even if someone has never heard of your music before, they might stumble upon your channel and become a fan.

Another benefit of having a YouTube channel is the ability to create and share music videos. Music videos are a great way to promote your music and engage with fans visually.

They also provide an opportunity to showcase your creativity and personality as an artist. By creating visually compelling videos, you can increase your chances of going viral and attracting new fans. Check out the link to the article to learn more.

How To Start A YouTube Channel And Make Money

4. Do SEO.

As a music artist, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can play a critical role in growing your online presence and reaching a wider audience. SEO is the practice of optimizing your website and online content to improve your search engine rankings and drive organic traffic to your site.

Here are some SEO strategies that music artists can implement to improve their online visibility:

Keyword research – Start by researching the keywords that your target audience is searching for. Identify keywords that are relevant to your music, genre, and brand, and include them in your website copy, titles, and tags.
Optimize your website – Make sure your website is user-friendly and optimized for search engines. This includes having a clear site structure, fast loading times, mobile responsiveness, and high-quality content.
Create high-quality content – Produce high-quality content that appeals to your target audience. This can include blog posts, videos, social media updates, and more. By creating valuable and shareable content, you can attract more traffic to your website and increase your search engine rankings.
Build backlinks – Backlinks are linked from other websites that point to your website. When other websites link to your content, it signals to search engines that your content is valuable and relevant. Reach out to other websites in your niche and try to secure backlinks to your website.
Leverage social media – Social media can be a powerful tool for driving traffic to your website and improving your search engine rankings. Share your content on social media platforms and engage with your fans to build a loyal following.
Use analytics – Finally, use analytics tools to track your website traffic, monitor your search engine rankings, and identify areas for improvement. This will help you to refine your SEO strategy over time and continue to grow your online presence.

SEO is an essential part of any music artist’s online marketing strategy. By optimizing your website and online content, building backlinks, and leveraging social media, you can improve your search engine rankings and reach a wider audience.

I wrote a comprehensive guide on how to learn SEO as a beginner. Check out the link to the article to learn more.

Learn How To Do SEO The Right Way

5. Use Email Marketing.

Email marketing can be a powerful tool for music artists looking to promote their work, connect with fans, and grow their audience. With email, artists can reach a targeted group of subscribers directly, keeping them informed about upcoming shows, new releases, and other exciting news.

Here are some tips for successfully using email marketing as a music artist:

Build a targeted email list: Start by collecting email addresses from fans at shows, on social media, and on your website. Make sure to segment your list based on fan location, interests, and engagement level so that you can tailor your messages accordingly.
Create engaging content: Your emails should be more than just promotional messages. Consider sending updates about your creative process, behind-the-scenes footage, and personal stories to keep your subscribers engaged.
Use an eye-catching design: Make sure your emails are visually appealing, with a clear call-to-action (CTA) and a mobile-responsive design.
Use automation: Use automation to send welcome emails, birthday messages, and other automated messages to keep your subscribers engaged.
Promote your email list: Make sure to promote your email list on all of your online platforms, including social media, your website, and at live shows.
Track your results: Use analytics to track your email open rates, click-through rates, and other metrics to see how your email marketing efforts are performing.

Email marketing can be an effective way for music artists to promote their work, connect with fans, and grow their audience.

By following these tips, artists can create engaging and effective email campaigns that help them reach their goals.

I wrote a comprehensive guide on how to get started with email marketing as a beginner. Check out the link to the article to learn more.

How To Boost Your Email Marketing List

Conclusion.

Becoming a music artist can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path for those with a passion for music.

Whether you are drawn to music for its creative expression, its ability to connect people, or its potential to make a difference in the world, there are many reasons to consider pursuing a career as a music artist.

So if you have a love of music and a desire to share your talents with the world, don’t be afraid to take the first step and start pursuing your dreams.

Finally, becoming a music artist and making money from your music requires talent, hard work, and a solid understanding of the music industry.

By developing your musical skills, writing and recording your music, building your online presence, performing live shows, and monetizing your music, you can build a successful career as a music artist and share your unique voice and talents with the world.