Music-based Money Making Machine - Question and Answer

Question:

I make music. I call it Life Story Music and Moody Mental Music. The music is a blend of genres like Jazz, R&B, Soul, Hip Hop and Classical. I love making the music, but I have a very hard time releasing the music because of all the steps, like registering copyrights, uploading to Distrokid and other online platforms, uploading to ASCAP, The MLC, Harry Fox Agency, SoundExchange, SongTrust, , making images and mastering and uploading to platforms. I'm one man - no record label, no team. I don't have a lot of money to pay for a team either. In fact, I want to make money with my music. I need a step-by-step machine to help me move the music from creation to release in the smallest amount of time and the least amount of money. I need the simplest explanations and the easiest steps (nothing illegal). My music is great, but it does not matter because no one is hearing it. Can you help me build my money-making machine with my music?

Answer:

Of course, I'd be happy to help you build a step-by-step process to release your music efficiently and cost-effectively. While I can't provide a physical machine, I can guide you through the steps involved in getting your music out there. Let's break it down into manageable stages:

Copyright and Protection:

Before releasing your music, ensure it's protected by copyright. While you automatically hold the copyright to your original work, registering it with the relevant authority (e.g., US Copyright Office) adds an extra layer of protection and allows you to seek legal remedies in case of infringement.

Music Distribution:

Use digital distribution services like DistroKid, TuneCore, or RouteNote to get your music on various streaming platforms and online stores (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, etc.). These services typically require a small annual fee or charge a percentage of your earnings.

Performance Rights Organizations (PROs):

ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC are PROs that collect performance royalties for songwriters and composers. Register your songs with one of these organizations (typically free) to ensure you receive royalties when your music is played on radio, TV, or performed live.

Publishing Royalties:

Register with The MLC (Mechanical Licensing Collective) and/or Harry Fox Agency to collect mechanical royalties generated from the reproduction of your music on various platforms.

Digital Royalties:

Register with SoundExchange to collect royalties for non-interactive digital performances (e.g., plays on internet radio, satellite radio, streaming services, etc.).

Publishing Administration:

Consider using services like Songtrust that help you collect royalties from all over the world efficiently and ensure you're not missing out on any revenue streams.

Mastering:

You can find affordable online mastering services that can polish your tracks to sound professional. Look for options that fit your budget.

Artwork and Visuals:

Use free design tools or collaborate with an artist friend to create eye-catching album artwork and visuals for your music. Visuals are crucial for attracting listeners on social media and streaming platforms.

Promotion and Marketing:

Utilize social media platforms to promote your music and engage with potential fans. Create accounts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, etc., and share your music regularly.

Collaboration and Networking:

Collaborate with other musicians, content creators, or influencers to expand your reach and gain exposure to new audiences.

Live Performances:

Whenever possible, perform live to connect with your audience on a personal level and potentially sell your music and merchandise at events.

Patience and Persistence:

Building an audience and making money from music takes time and effort. Stay consistent, keep creating, and don't get discouraged.

Conclusion

Remember, the key is to start small, focus on quality, and gradually expand your reach. As you generate revenue, consider reinvesting in your music career to further improve your releases and promotional efforts. Good luck with your music journey!

Topics: Music Producer Question and Answer Music-based Money Making Machine