We all know that music industry needs money, So if you are a Songwriter or an Artist and you are Struggling with your career? I Have a goodnews for you. Here in this article we are goin to give you Top 10 Music Side Hustles you can use and make money, just make sure you read this article to the end.
As a singer-songwriter who’s worn more hats than a milliner, I know firsthand the financial rollercoaster of pursuing a music career. Ramen for dinner, skipped meals, and maxed-out credit cards are not the lyrics to the song of success we all dream of singing.
But here’s the good news: you don’t have to starve for your art. There are countless ways to monetize your musical talents, knowledge, and passion while still chasing your dreams. In this guide, we’ll explore ten lucrative side hustles tailored for musicians like you. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these gigs can provide the financial stability you need to fuel your creativity and avoid the dreaded “starving artist” stereotype.
Why Music Side Hustles Are Essential for Artists?
Let’s be real: the music industry isn’t always kind to its creators. Record deals are elusive, streaming royalties are meager, and touring can be a financial drain. That’s where side hustles come in. They offer a lifeline for artists who need to pay the bills, invest in their craft, and maintain some semblance of financial sanity.
Beyond the money, side hustles can also provide:
- Creative freedom: You’re not beholden to a label or a manager’s whims. You can explore different musical genres, experiment with new sounds, and create on your own terms.
- Skill diversification: You’ll develop new skills and broaden your professional network, which can open doors to unexpected opportunities.
- Career flexibility: You’re not tied to a 9-to-5 job. You can set your own hours, work from anywhere, and tailor your schedule around your musical pursuits.
In short, music side hustles empower you to take control of your career, chase your artistic dreams, and never have to choose between paying rent and buying that new guitar pedal.
Your musical talents are your most valuable asset. Here’s how to turn them into a steady income:
1. Music Lessons: Teaching Music to Students Online or Offline
- What you need: Expertise in your instrument or voice, patience, teaching materials (if applicable)
- Pros: Flexible schedule, fulfilling work, builds your reputation
- Cons: Can be time-consuming, requires marketing your services
- Platforms: TakeLessons, Lessonface, Fiverr, or your own website
Whether you teach kids to strum their first chords or help adults hone their skills, sharing your knowledge is a rewarding way to make money. Platforms like TakeLessons and Lessonface make it easy to connect with students online, while local community centers and music stores often need instructors. You can also offer private lessons in your home or studio.
2. Freelance Music Composition: Creating Music for Advertisements, Films, and TV Shows
3. Performing at Weddings, Private Events, or Local Gigs
- What you need: A solid repertoire, reliable transportation, stage presence
- Pros: Can be lucrative, builds your performance skills, networking opportunities
- Cons: Requires weekend/evening availability, competition can be fierce
- Platforms: GigSalad, The Bash, local music venues, word-of-mouth
Weddings, corporate events, and private parties are always looking for talented musicians to set the mood. Local bars, coffee shops, and open mic nights are also great places to showcase your skills and build a following. Don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth referrals from satisfied clients.
4. Session Musician Work (Studio Recording or Live Performances)
- What you need: Proficient on your instrument, sight-reading skills, ability to adapt to different genres
- Pros: Steady income, work with a variety of artists, exposure to the industry
- Cons: Long hours, competitive field, requires networking and a strong reputation
- Platforms: SoundBetter, AirGigs, social media, networking with producers and studios
If you’re a skilled instrumentalist or vocalist, session work can be a reliable source of income. You’ll get paid to play on other artists’ recordings or accompany them on stage. Building relationships with producers, engineers, and fellow musicians is key to landing these gigs.
5. Music Production: Creating Beats and Instrumentals for Other Artists
6. Creating and Selling Sample Packs or Loops
- What you need: Music production software, creative sound design skills, understanding of licensing
- Pros: Passive income potential, creative outlet, builds your brand as a producer
- Cons: Requires upfront investment in software and equipment, competitive market
- Platforms: Splice, Loopmasters, ADSR Sounds, your own website
If you’re tech-savvy and enjoy experimenting with sounds, creating sample packs or loops is a great way to monetize your creativity. Producers and beatmakers are always looking for unique sounds to incorporate into their tracks. By selling your samples on platforms like Splice or Loopmasters, you can earn royalties every time someone uses your work.
Monetizing Your Music Knowledge
Your understanding of music theory, history, production, or business can be a valuable asset. Here’s how to turn it into a side hustle:
7. Writing Music Reviews or Articles for Blogs/Publications
- What you need: Strong writing skills, knowledge of music genres, passion for discovering new music
- Pros: Creative outlet, builds your portfolio as a writer, potential for paid gigs
- Cons: Can be time-consuming, competition for paid opportunities
- Platforms: Pitch to music blogs and publications, freelance writing platforms
If you have a way with words and a deep love for music, consider writing reviews or articles for music blogs and publications. You can start by contributing to free platforms to build your portfolio, then pitch your work to paid outlets. This is a great way to share your opinions, discover new artists, and get your name out there.
8. Offering Music Consulting Services to Aspiring Artists
- What you need: Experience in the music industry, expertise in a specific area (e.g., songwriting, marketing, touring), good communication skills
- Pros: Lucrative potential, helps other artists achieve their goals, builds your reputation as an expert
- Cons: Requires marketing your services, can be time-consuming
- Platforms: Your own website, social media, networking with artists and industry professionals
If you’ve navigated the music industry’s ups and downs, you have valuable insights to share. Offer consulting services to aspiring artists who need guidance on songwriting, recording, marketing, touring, or navigating the business side of things. You can charge hourly rates or offer package deals.
9. Creating and Selling Online Courses on Music Theory or Production
- What you need: Expertise in your subject, teaching materials (videos, slides, worksheets), platform to host your course
- Pros: Passive income potential, reaches a wide audience, establishes you as an authority
- Cons: Requires upfront investment in course creation, marketing your course
- Platforms: Teachable, Udemy, Skillshare, your own website
If you’re passionate about teaching and have a knack for explaining complex concepts, create an online course. You can cover topics like music theory, songwriting, music production, or specific instruments. Online learning platforms like Teachable and Udemy make it easy to create, host, and sell your courses.
10. Starting a Music-Themed Podcast or YouTube Channel
- What you need: Engaging personality, topic expertise, audio/video equipment, editing skills
- Pros: Builds your brand and audience, potential for sponsorships and advertising revenue, creative outlet
- Cons: Requires consistent content creation, building an audience takes time
- Platforms: YouTube, podcast hosting platforms (Anchor, Buzzsprout), social media
Podcasts and YouTube channels are booming, and music is a popular topic. Share your knowledge, opinions, or experiences in a format that resonates with your audience. You can interview other musicians, review new releases, teach music lessons, or offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into your own creative process. As your audience grows, you can monetize your channel through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
Unconventional Side Hustles for Musicians
Think outside the box to find unique ways to monetize your musical talents:
11. Live Streaming Performances on Platforms Like Twitch or YouTube
- What you need: Engaging performance style, reliable internet connection, streaming equipment (camera, microphone), audience interaction skills
- Pros: Direct connection with fans, potential for tips and donations, builds your online presence
- Cons: Requires consistent scheduling and promotion, technical setup
- Platforms: Twitch, YouTube Live
Live streaming allows you to connect with fans in real time and earn money through tips, donations, and subscriptions. You can perform original songs, covers, or even offer interactive experiences like Q&A sessions or virtual jam sessions. Building a loyal following is key to success on these platforms.
12. Becoming a Music Producer for Other Artists or Sync Licensing
- What you need: Music production skills, industry contacts, understanding of licensing agreements
- Pros: Creative collaboration, potential for royalties and upfront fees, exposure to new genres
- Cons: Competitive field, requires networking and negotiation skills
- Platforms: SoundBetter, Taxi, social media, networking with artists and music supervisors
If you have a knack for production, you can offer your services to other artists, helping them record and produce their music. You can also explore sync licensing, which involves placing your music in TV shows, films, commercials,
13. Selling Merchandise (T-shirts, Stickers, etc.) with Your Branding
- What you need: Eye-catching designs, online store or print-on-demand service, marketing skills
- Pros: Builds your brand, generates additional income, connects with fans
- Cons: Requires upfront investment in design and inventory (unless using print-on-demand), marketing effort
- Platforms: Etsy, Merch by Amazon, Shopify, Redbubble, Spreadshirt
Fans love to show their support for their favorite artists. Create merchandise like t-shirts, hoodies, stickers, tote bags, or even phone cases featuring your logo, album artwork, or lyrics. You can sell them at your gigs, online through platforms like Etsy or Merch by Amazon, or use print-on-demand services that handle production and shipping.
14. Working as a Music Therapist or Educator in Schools/Communities
- What you need: Relevant degree or certification (if applicable), passion for helping others, patience and empathy
- Pros: Fulfilling work, makes a positive impact, stable income
- Cons: May require additional education or training, competition for jobs
- Platforms: Schools, hospitals, community centers, private practice
If you have a heart for helping others and a desire to use music for good, consider a career in music therapy or music education. Music therapists work with individuals with a variety of needs, using music to promote healing, communication, and overall well-being. Music educators teach music in schools or community settings, inspiring the next generation of musicians.
Tips for Choosing the Right Side Hustle
With so many options, how do you choose the right side hustle? Consider these factors:
- Your skills and interests: What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing? Choose a side hustle that aligns with your strengths and passions.
- Time commitment: How much time can you realistically dedicate to your side hustle? Some gigs require more time and energy than others.
- Earning potential: How much money do you need to make? Research the average rates for different side hustles and choose one that fits your financial goals.
- Marketing and promotion: How will you market your services or products? Develop a plan to get the word out and attract clients or customers.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. You may find that a combination of different side hustles works best for you. The key is to find something that you enjoy and that complements your music career.
Balancing Your Music Career with Your Side Hustle
Juggling a music career and a side hustle is no easy feat, but it’s definitely doable. Here are some tips to help you maintain balance:
- Time management: Set clear boundaries between your music time and your side hustle time. Use a calendar or planner to schedule your activities and avoid overcommitting.
- Prioritize: Focus on your most important tasks first. Don’t let your side hustle overshadow your music career.
- Delegate: If possible, outsource tasks that you don’t have time for or that someone else can do better.
- Set financial goals: Determine how much money you need to make from your side hustle to support your music career. Track your income and expenses to stay on track.
- Don’t forget your passion: Make time for the music you love, even when you’re busy with your side hustle. It’s important to maintain your creative spark and remember why you started this journey in the first place.
Remember, your side hustle is a means to an end. It’s a tool to help you achieve your musical dreams, not a replacement for them.
Case Studies: Inspirational Stories of Artists Who Successfully Juggled Music and Side Hustles
You’re not alone in this journey. Many successful musicians have relied on side hustles to support their careers. Here are a few inspiring examples:
- Lady Gaga: Before her meteoric rise to fame, Lady Gaga worked as a songwriter for other artists and performed in burlesque shows.
- Ed Sheeran: In his early days, Ed Sheeran busked on the streets and couch-surfed to make ends meet.
- Chance the Rapper: Chance the Rapper famously released his early mixtapes for free online, building a massive following and eventually landing a record deal.
These artists prove that it’s possible to pursue your musical passions while working a side hustle. Don’t be discouraged by the challenges; with hard work, determination, and a little creativity, you can achieve your dreams.
Resources: Websites, Platforms, and Tools to Help You Find and Secure Side Gigs
- Music-Specific Platforms:
- SoundBetter: Find session work, remote collaborations, and music production gigs.
- AirGigs: Marketplace for voiceover artists, session musicians, and other creative professionals.
- Sonicbids: Submit your music for festival and venue bookings.
- Freelance Marketplaces:
- Fiverr: Offer your services as a musician, teacher, writer, or consultant.
- Upwork: Find freelance gigs in a variety of creative fields.
- Guru: Connect with clients looking for creative and technical talent.
- Online Course Platforms:
- Teachable: Create and sell your own online courses.
- Udemy: Offer courses on a wide range of topics, including music.
- Skills: hareTeach creative classes and workshops.
Conclusion
The music industry is a tough nut to crack, but with the right side hustle, you can create a sustainable career that supports your artistic dreams. Remember, you’re not just a musician; you’re a multi-talented entrepreneur with a passion for music. By leveraging your skills, knowledge, and creativity, you can build a fulfilling and financially rewarding career.
FAQ: Answering Common Questions About Music Side Hustles
What are the best music side hustles for beginners?
- Teaching music lessons is a great way to start, as it requires minimal upfront investment and allows you to share your passion.
- Performing at local gigs and open mic nights can help you build your confidence and network with other musicians.
- Creating and selling sample packs or loops is a good option for tech-savvy musicians who enjoy sound design.
How much can I earn from a music side hustle?
Earnings vary depending on the side hustle, your experience, and your location. However, many musicians earn a significant income from their side gigs, sometimes even surpassing their music-related income.
How do I Balance My Music Career with My side Hustle?
Time management and prioritization are key. Set clear boundaries between your music time and your side hustle time, and focus on your most important tasks first.
What are some tips for marketing my side hustle?
- Create a professional website or online portfolio to showcase your work.
- Utilize social media platforms to connect with potential clients and customers.
- Network with other musicians and industry professionals.
- Offer discounts or promotions to attract new business.
Is it possible to make a living solely from music side hustles?
While it’s possible, it’s not always easy. It requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to diversify your income streams. However, many musicians have successfully built sustainable careers through a combination of side hustles and music-related income.
I hope this comprehensive guide has sparked some ideas and given you the confidence to explore the world of music side hustles. Remember, your musical journey is unique, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But with a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can create a career path that supports your artistic vision and allows you to thrive as a musician.
Now, go out there and make some music (and money)!
External Links
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Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/
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Freelancer: https://www.freelancer.com/
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Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com/
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SoundBetter: https://soundbetter.com/
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BeatStars: https://www.beatstars.com/
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Airbit: https://airbit.com/
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Amazon Associates: https://affiliate-program.amazon.com/
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Guitar Center: https://www.guitarcenter.com/affiliate-program
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Native Instruments: https://www.native-instruments.com/en/affiliate-program/
