7 Ways to Make Money as a Musician (That Aren't Streaming)

Because Spotify pennies won’t buy you Taco Bell at 2 a.m.

Introduction

Are you tired of getting checks from streaming platforms that can’t even cover a venti latte? We get it. Being a music artist in the age of streaming is like being handed a participation trophy for running a marathon—it's something, but it’s not paying the rent.

So, let’s talk about leveling up your money game. If you’re ready to expand your revenue streams beyond streaming, here are seven ways to make the moolah flow like your sick beats. Spoiler: they don’t all involve you living in the studio 24/7.

1. Teaching: Share the Skills, Get the Bills

Not everyone has your talent, but some would pay good money to learn. Whether you’re teaching guitar to aspiring rock stars or offering vocal lessons to choir kids who dream of Broadway, teaching is a goldmine.

How to Start:

• Host one-on-one lessons online via platforms like Zoom.
• Create beginner-friendly tutorials on YouTube to attract students (and sneak in some ad revenue).
• Offer group classes at community centers or music schools.

Pro tip: Market yourself as a “cool music teacher.” Nobody wants the vibe of a grumpy high school band director yelling about eighth notes.

2. Workshops: Go Big or Go Home

Workshops are like teaching but on steroids. Instead of one-on-one, you’re running an event where you can teach a group of people at once. Cover topics like songwriting, music production, or even the business side of being an artist.

How to Start:

• Partner with local venues or online platforms like MasterClass.
• Promote your workshop through your social media.
• Make it interactive—people love leaving with something tangible, like their first recorded demo.

Bonus points if you give it a catchy name like “Beats and Brains” or “The Hitmaker’s Bootcamp.”

3. Brand Sponsorships/Endorsements: Your Face, Their Product

You know those Instagram ads where someone’s holding a protein shake looking way too happy? That could be you. Brands are always on the lookout for fresh faces (or sounds) to help them sell their stuff.

How to Start:

• Build your social media following. Brands want eyeballs.
• Align with brands that match your vibe—if you’re an indie artist, partner with an eco-friendly company. If you’re hip-hop, find a streetwear brand.
• Reach out directly or sign up for influencer platforms like Aspire or Upfluence.

And don’t forget to be authentic. Nobody’s buying that you actually use "DJ Dave's Miracle Guitar Polish" unless it actually slaps.

4. Commissioned Work: Music on Demand

You know jingles, those catchy little tunes you can’t get out of your head? Businesses, weddings, and even podcast creators need custom music. That’s where you come in.

How to Start:

• List your services on platforms like Fiverr or SoundBetter.
• Network with wedding planners, podcast creators, and ad agencies.
• Charge more for customization, rush orders, or added vocals.

Just make sure you’re okay with hearing your work sell laundry detergent or play during someone’s “first dance” 20 years from now.

5. Residencies: Get Paid to Stay in One Place

Residencies are like the holy grail of gigs. Instead of constantly traveling to different venues, you camp out in one spot and get paid to perform regularly. Think of it as the “steady job” of the music world.

How to Start:

• Approach local bars, restaurants, or hotels that host live music.
• Highlight your ability to draw a crowd.
• Negotiate long-term contracts for weekly or monthly gigs.

If you’re lucky, you might even land a residency in Vegas. But hey, even a residency at your local brewery counts.

6. Live Performances: Bring the Noise

Ah, the bread and butter of a musician’s income. Whether it’s playing gigs at local venues, private events, or backyard weddings, live performances are still one of the best ways to get paid.

How to Start:

• Connect with event planners and local promoters.
• Sell tickets through platforms like Eventbrite or Songkick.
• Build your reputation as a must-see act.

And don’t forget to milk the merch table for all it’s worth. (More on that next.)

7. Merchandising: Make It, Sell It, Repeat

Your fans don’t just want your music—they want to wear it, hang it on their walls, or flex it on their phone screens. From T-shirts to digital downloads, merch is the gift that keeps on giving.

How to Start:

• Start small: print a few T-shirts or stickers through sites like Printful.
• Offer limited-edition items to create FOMO.
• Experiment with digital content, like exclusive MP3s or NFTs.

NFTs, you say? Yep, some artists are cashing in by offering one-of-a-kind digital collectibles. Just don’t forget to explain what an NFT is to your fans. (Hint: it’s not a sandwich.)

Conclusion

Streaming might get your music heard, but these revenue streams will actually get you paid. From teaching and workshops to live gigs and merch, the opportunities are endless for artists willing to think outside the (streaming) box.

Start with one, experiment, and expand as you go. The key is diversifying so you’re not putting all your eggs in one Spotify playlist.

Remember, you’re not just a musician—you’re a brand, a teacher, an entrepreneur. Go out there, make the magic, and watch the dollars roll in.

Now go forth and monetize like a boss.