Guest article written by Cody McBride
Image via Pexels
To Be, or Not To Be
Navigating the complex maze of the modern music industry can be a challenge for both aspiring and established musicians. Even if you are a Voice Actor and dabble in producing music, here are a few tips that can assist you in following the right road.
Financial stability often eludes many artists, making it essential to seek alternative income sources. Today, Johnny George takes an in-depth look at some inventive methods musicians can employ to augment their income. The objective is to offer musicians ways to diversify their earnings while also enriching their artistic portfolios. Whether you’re a solo artist or part of a band, there’s something in this list for everyone.
Stream Your Talent Live
In an increasingly digital age, live streaming platforms offer a lucrative way to connect with fans globally. Platforms like Twitch and YouTube Live are excellent mediums for hosting live gigs. You can monetize these digital performances through viewer donations, merchandise sales, and even advertisement revenue. The key is to offer exclusive experiences, like Q&A sessions or tutorial segments, to keep your audience engaged.
Send Out a Newsletter
While social media marketing can go a long way, it’s also a good idea to supplement this with a more traditional approach – perhaps by putting out a newsletter. Make sure you include plenty of high quality photos. Later, if you want to convert a portion of your newsletter – say, a page – into an image so that you can add it to your social media accounts, you can try this tool for free to make the conversion much easier.
Make YouTube Your Stage
YouTube has evolved from being merely a platform for casual videos to a serious content distribution network. Musicians can upload original songs, cover tracks, and even offer musical tutorials. The revenue streams are diverse, ranging from ad revenue to sponsorship deals.
Set Up a Mini Studio at Home
Dedicating a space in your home for recording music can be a smart financial move. With a minimal initial investment, you can produce high-quality recordings that can be sold on various digital platforms. Upgrading the room’s soundproofing and acoustics can also contribute to increasing your property’s market value. Creating a home studio offers the flexibility to record at any time, reducing the need for expensive studio bookings.
Dive into Special Events
While concerts and club gigs are standard, don’t ignore the potential of performing at special events like weddings or corporate functions. These occasions often pay well and offer a great platform for broader exposure. From classical quartets to DJ sets, the opportunities are boundless. You can even create different performance packages, offering clients a variety of options tailored to their needs.
Form a Business for Security and Credibility
Taking your music career seriously involves more than just artistic commitment; it requires formal business structuring. You have a number of business structures to choose from – like a limited liability company (LLC), sole proprietorship, and corporation – so weigh your options carefully. Also, you’ll want to spend some time on your business plan.
Share Knowledge Through Lessons
If you possess expertise in a specific instrument or a particular style, teaching can be a rewarding venture. Providing lessons can bring in consistent income while allowing you to engage with your community. You can offer online courses, one-on-one sessions, or even group workshops. Lessons can be priced according to your expertise level and the intricacy of the course material.
Create Custom Arrangements
Many artists and bands often seek bespoke musical arrangements for their performances or recordings. If you have a knack for composition, this could be a lucrative avenue to explore. Offering this service could expand your network while providing another income stream. The demand for unique and quality arrangements is high, making this a viable option for musicians with the required skill set.
Musicians today need not rely solely on traditional means of income like album sales or touring. From live streaming to putting out a newsletter to setting up your own music business, there are numerous avenues to explore. These eight inventive methods are geared towards diversifying your revenue streams while enhancing your musical portfolio. The world of music is vast and full of opportunities. Stepping outside the conventional box might be the key to not just surviving, but thriving, in this exciting industry.
Johnny George is an experienced voice actor, producer, and consultant who’d love to hear from you.
My thanks to Cody for his contribution to Voice Print.