How to Start Making Money in the Music Business

Making money in the music business is challenging, but almost anyone can do it. If you like music and are willing to work hard, you can start making money in the music business right now!

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access

1. There are three primary ways to earn money in the music business: working as a musician, being an agent or managing a band, and starting your own record company. If you are a talented musician, then you should start a band and play as many gigs as you can get. Also, set up a website and start selling your music over the internet. This can be done by hiring a web developer for about $500 and setting up a free Paypal account.

2. Anyone who is outgoing and willing to talk to many different people can be a successful agent. You don't even need to have any musical talent! Learn about the venues for concerts in your community, and then start talking to bands. Go to see as many shows as you can, and introduce yourself to the band afterwards. Tell the band that you can help them increase their earnings, and develop a relationship with them. Once you get them to sign a contract with you, start arranging as many paying gigs for them as you can. Don't worry about getting high-profile gigs right away - there is nothing wrong with making $300 an hour playing at weddings and birthday parties!

3. If you can identify good bands and want to help them get their music out to the general public, then consider starting your own record company. All you need to get started is a website where people can download samples of your different artists' music. If you choose interesting music, the traffic to your website will grow. Bands will notice this and be more interested in signing up with your record company. Thanks to the internet, you can reach millions of people by simply building a website and promoting it. Most software that a new record company needs is available for free or very low cost.

Tips & Warnings

• Learn as much about the music business as you can before you get started.
• Look for CDs, books, DVDs, and other learning materials about the music business.
• Don't expect to be successful immediately. Be patient and you will start earning money if you keep up the work.

Resources

• Making Money in the Music Business

[lucindaroth]

on 9/26/2009 This is so tough to do. Thank you for the tips

[gahazeleyes]

on 9/21/2009 Thanks for sharing, very good information.

[brandy1123]

on 9/18/2009 great advise

[cosmichorse]

on 9/11/2009 Great insight - thank you!

[nadinola]

on 9/8/2009 Excellent tips. I compose my music on the program Reason 4. The guitar is an awesome instrument. 5* and recommended.