12 One-Sentence Tips on Making Money as a Musician

In 2019, I started truly making money as a musician. 

I was able to use my music income to pay for my projects instead of running a crowdfunding campaign.

And then in 2021, I started making enough to help pay my bills. 

I’m by no means an expert on this topic, but I am making progress. 

So based on my experience…

Here are 12 one-sentence tips on making money as a musician…

1. Yes, you can make a living from music (thousands of other musicians are).

2. If you take small, consistent steps toward your income goals, you will get there eventually.

3. Making money as a musician can match what you love to do, you just have to find the right income source(s).

4. Passive income is the perfect way to make money for part-time musicians. 

5. Sync licensing can be a lucrative income source. 

6. Performing at private events usually pays very well — the hosts are often businesses with a big budget or a couple willing to spend lots of money on their wedding.

7. The smartest way to make money from music is to diversify your income streams. 

8. You need to stay open to well-paying opportunities, even if they aren’t what you expected, and as long as they don’t distract you from what you truly want to do.

9. You can make money from music on the side — it’s not a “full-time or nothing” game.

10. As musicians, we can fight for fair pay without starving in the process.

11. If you’re not yet making money from music, you can fund your musical projects with side hustles, like freelance music writing (which you can do from anywhere).

12. The most successful artists aren’t always the most talented, but the most successful artists do know how to adapt in this ever-chaning music industry.

Find a Clear Path to Your Chosen Music Career

Use the One-Thing-A-Day Worksheet to keep you on course as you build your music career…