SoundCloud as a Discovery Platform
Why It Still Matters in 2025 The Rise of SoundCloud in Music Discovery SoundCloud has always been more than just another streaming service. Launched as an open platform for creators, it gave musicians the ability to upload their tracks freely, experiment without constraints, and connect directly with listeners worldwide. Unlike…
Deezer’s Artist-Centric Model
A New Era for Fair Music Streaming Introduction: Why the Artist-Centric Model Matters The streaming industry has long faced criticism regarding its payout system. For years, independent musicians have argued that the “pro-rata” model used by most platforms unfairly rewards major artists and labels, leaving smaller creators with little revenue…
YouTube Music Launches New Tools to Empower Artists and Engage Fans
Introduction In today’s streaming landscape, artists are constantly searching for ways to connect more deeply with their fans. YouTube Music has just introduced a series of innovative tools designed to do exactly that. With features like pre-save options, album countdowns, and exclusive merchandise integration, the platform is redefining how artists…
Why Registering with a Copyright Management Society Is Essential for Musicians
Introduction When you compose, write, or produce music, you automatically own the copyright. But ownership alone does not guarantee that you’ll actually get paid when your work is used publicly. That’s why joining a copyright management society (also called a collective management organization or CMO) is crucial for every serious…
Spotify’s Free Tier Update
You Can Now Pick & Play Any Song Spotify has just announced a major update that changes the way free users can enjoy music on the platform. Until now, free listeners were mostly stuck with shuffle mode, limited skips, and a passive experience. In September 2025, Spotify rolled out…
Should You Do Everything Alone?
The Indie Musician’s Dilemma The life of an independent musician often feels like a constant balancing act. You’re not just the artist—you’re also the manager, promoter, graphic designer, booking agent, and accountant. The “Do It Yourself” (DIY) spirit has empowered countless artists, but it also raises a difficult question: Should…
Streams vs. Fans
Why 100 True Supporters Are Worth More Than 100,000 Plays In today’s digital music economy, artists are taught to chase streams. Every release is judged by its Spotify numbers, YouTube views, or TikTok virality. But streams don’t always tell the full story. For independent musicians, a small, loyal fanbase can…
The Doubt of Independent Musicians
Should You Quit If No One Listens? Being an independent musician is one of the most rewarding yet challenging paths an artist can take. While creativity flows freely, so does doubt. Every indie artist eventually asks the same painful question: If no one is listening to my music, should I…
How Many Streams Does an Artist Need to Earn $1 Million?
For independent musicians navigating the digital landscape, streaming platforms represent both opportunity and frustration. The promise of global reach comes with the reality of micro-payments per play. So, what does it actually take to earn $1 million from streaming alone? Let’s break it down platform by platform, and explore the…
