It is possible to make a living off music royalty payments, but it often depends on several key factors, including the amount of music you have out there, the types of royalties you're earning, and how widely your music is used and consumed.
To make a living off royalties, you need to understand the different types of royalties that can be earned. Performance royalties are earned when your music is played publicly, like on the radio, in a restaurant, or at a concert.
Mechanical royalties come from the sale or streaming of your music, whether it’s through physical copies, downloads, or streams on platforms like Spotify. Sync royalties are generated when your music is used in visual media, such as films, TV shows, or commercials.
The more music you have in circulation, the better your chances of earning significant royalties. This means consistently creating and releasing new music, and not just focusing on one or two songs.
Artists who make a living off royalties often have extensive catalogs, including songs that they’ve written for themselves as well as for other artists.
Additionally, having your music placed in high-traffic areas—like popular playlists, TV shows, or movies—can lead to a steady stream of royalties.
Building relationships in the music industry is crucial for maximizing royalty earnings. Songwriters and composers often collaborate with publishers who can help get their music placed in lucrative opportunities.
Similarly, having a good relationship with a performance rights organization (PRO) can ensure that you’re collecting all the royalties you’re entitled to.
Sync licensing, in particular, can be very profitable. If your music is chosen for a big commercial or a hit TV show, the sync fee itself can be substantial, and it’s often followed by ongoing performance royalties each time the ad or show airs.
For many artists, securing a few high-profile sync placements can be a significant part of their income.
While it’s certainly possible to make a living from royalties, it’s important to have realistic expectations. For many musicians, royalties are just one part of their income stream, supplemented by live performances, teaching, session work, or merchandise sales.
The amount you earn from royalties can also vary greatly depending on the genre of music, your audience, and how effectively you’re able to market and distribute your music.
To increase your chances of making a living from music royalties, it’s often necessary to diversify your revenue streams. This could include writing for other artists, creating music for stock libraries, or even branching out into different genres that might offer more lucrative opportunities.
Additionally, staying informed about the ever-changing landscape of music consumption, like the rise of streaming and changes in copyright laws, can help you maximize your earnings.
As a session singer, writer, and producer that has worked with over 300 clients to provide high-quality jingles, singles, and features, Yona spends her time creating and marketing new music and helpful resources for creators. Check out Yona’s latest releases on her Spotify, her Youtube and share if you like it!
If you are in need of singer, songwriter or song producer services, see what Yona Marie can offer you on her services page.
