Music is the soundtrack of our lives. It lifts our spirits, motivates us during workouts, and provides a comforting backdrop to our daily routines.
But what if you could turn your love for tunes into cold, hard cash?
Believe it or not, there are legitimate ways to earn money simply by listening to music. From reviewing new tracks to curating playlists, music enthusiasts can now monetize their passion.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways you can get paid to listen to music.
Whether you’re looking for a fun side hustle or just want to earn a little extra while enjoying your favorite melodies, these 18 options might be music to your ears.
1. Slicethepie
If you love giving feedback on the music you listen to, Slicethepie is one of the largest and most popular music review sites out there.
It’s a platform that connects music lovers with up-and-coming artists, allowing you to earn money by sharing your opinions on new tracks.
Here’s how it works: You create an account, listen to a song (for at least 90 seconds), and then write a review. The more detailed and constructive your review, the more you’ll earn.
Payments start at around $0.02 per review but can increase as you build your reputation on the site.
What sets Slicethepie apart is its diverse range of content. Besides music, you can also review fashion items, mobile accessories, and more.
This variety keeps things interesting and allows you to earn from multiple categories.
To cash out, you’ll need to accumulate at least $10 in your account. Once you hit that threshold, payments are made instantly to your PayPal account.
It’s a straightforward process that makes getting paid for your musical opinions a breeze.
2. Mode/Current
Mode (for Android users) or Current (for iOS users) is a music app that’s changing the game when it comes to earning while you listen.
This platform offers a unique twist on the traditional radio experience.
With Mode/Current, you can:
- Listen to over 100,000 curated radio stations.
- Earn points for every minute you spend tuning in.
The app doesn’t just stop at music. You can also rack up points by completing surveys, watching video ads, or reaching certain levels in in-app games.
It’s a multifaceted approach to earning that keeps things engaging.
What’s impressive about Mode/Current is the potential earnings. Users report making up to $600 per year just by using the app regularly.
That’s a significant amount for something you’d probably be doing anyway!
When it’s time to cash out, you can convert your points into gift cards from popular retailers, or opt for a direct cash transfer to your PayPal account.
It’s a flexible system that lets you choose how you want to be rewarded for your listening time.
3. Fountain
Podcast lovers, rejoice! Fountain can turn your listening habits into Bitcoin earnings.
This innovative app rewards users for tuning into their favorite shows – and it’s not just about passive listening.
Fountain encourages active engagement. You can earn varying amounts of Bitcoin for your first hour of podcast listening each day.
But the earning potential doesn’t stop there. Share clips from podcasts you love, leave thoughtful comments, and you’ll see your earnings grow.
One unique feature of Fountain is its referral program. Bring your friends on board, and you’ll earn a percentage of their listening rewards.
It’s a great way to boost your earnings while sharing your favorite podcasts with others.
Keep in mind that earning rates fluctuate daily, adding an element of excitement to your listening sessions.
To withdraw your earnings, you’ll need a lightning wallet — a small learning curve that’s worth it for Bitcoin enthusiasts.
4. Radio Earn
Radio Earn offers a unique twist on the “get paid to listen” concept. Instead of focusing on individual songs, this platform rewards you for tuning into online radio stations.
Create a free account and start listening to their selection of online radio stations. For every 15 minutes of listening time, you earn points.
These points accumulate over the course of a month and are then converted into USD.
Radio Earn offers flexibility in how you cash out:
- Bank transfer
- Bitcoin
- Amazon gift cards
The platform even allows you to embed their radio player on your own website, potentially earning you money when your visitors tune in.
I once tried Radio Earn for a month, curious to see how much I could earn. The process was straightforward — I simply left the radio playing in the background while I worked.
By the end of the month, I had accumulated enough points for a small payout of $10.50. While it wasn’t a huge amount, it was satisfying to earn something for an activity I would have done anyway.
One thing to note is that earnings from Radio Earn tend to be on the lower side compared to some other platforms.
However, its passive nature makes it an easy addition to your money-making toolkit.
5. Playlist Push
For the serious music curators out there, Playlist Push offers a unique opportunity to monetize your playlist-making skills.
This platform connects playlist creators with up-and-coming artists looking to boost their visibility.
To qualify as a curator on Playlist Push, you need to meet some specific criteria:
- Have a public playlist on Spotify, YouTube Music, or Apple Music.
- Maintain at least 1,000 followers per playlist.
- Ensure your playlists have a minimum number of active listeners.
Once you’re approved, you’ll receive tracks from independent artists to review.
You’ll listen to each song and decide if it’s a good fit for your playlist. If you choose to add it, great! If not, you’ll provide feedback to the artist.
The earning potential on Playlist Push is impressive. Curators can make anywhere from $1.25 to $15 per song review.
The exact amount depends on factors like your playlist’s popularity and the quality of your feedback.
6. MusicXray
MusicXray positions itself as a bridge between emerging artists and potential fans.
As a user, you get to be on the receiving end of this musical matchmaking service – and get paid for it!
After you create your profile, MusicXray analyzes your musical preferences and matches you with songs that align with your taste.
Your job? Listen to these tracks and provide your honest opinion.
The pay per song on MusicXray isn’t listed on their website, but users report earning around $0.10 per song.
It might not sound like much, but it can add up quickly if you’re an avid music listener.
One of the best features of MusicXray is its payout system. Once your account reaches $20, you can cash out via PayPal.
Beyond the earning potential, MusicXray offers music lovers a chance to discover new artists before they hit the mainstream.
7. WeLocalize
Ever fancied yourself as a lyric transcriber? WeLocalize might just be your ticket to turning that skill into cash.
This platform combines music with transcription tasks, offering a new way to earn money while listening.
Here’s how it works: WeLocalize sends you tracks, and your job is to listen carefully and type out the lyrics.
It’s like karaoke, but instead of singing, you’re typing — and getting paid for it! The pay rate is pretty sweet, at around $4 per song transcribed.
But there are a few catches. First, you need to be a speedy and accurate typist. This isn’t a job for hunt-and-peck typists.
Secondly, you must be a permanent U.S. citizen to qualify. If you tick these boxes, though, you could be on your way to a fun and profitable side hustle.
To get started, create a free account and keep an eye on the Freelance Projects section. When transcription gigs pop up, grab ’em quick — they tend to go fast!
8. Research.fm
Research.fm is all about market research for radio stations, and they want your ears on the job.
The process is pretty straightforward. You sign up, fill out a survey about your demographics and listening habits, and then… you wait.
Patience is key here. Research.fm will email you when you qualify for a music sample review.
Now, don’t expect to be earning cash right away. The rewards come in the form of Amazon gift cards. And you do get to be part of shaping the future of radio.
In the meanwhile, if this is the type of reward you are really interested in, you can also check out these other ways of earning free Amazon gift cards while waiting for your turn in Research.fm.
One thing to keep in mind is that Research.fm isn’t always actively recruiting. If they’re not taking new reviewers when you check, don’t lose heart. Keep an eye on their website and try again later.
9. Earnably
In as much as Earnably can get you paid to listen to music, that’s just the tip of the iceberg. This site offers a smorgasbord of money-making opportunities.
Here’s what you can do on Earnably:
- Listen to music and watch music videos
- Complete surveys
- Play games
- Watch ads
The more activities you engage in, the more points you rack up. And points mean prizes — or, in this case, cash.
You can cash out your earnings via PayPal, or if you prefer, snag some Amazon gift cards.
One of the coolest things about Earnably is its low payout threshold. You only need to earn 225 points (equivalent to $2.25) before you can cash out.
That’s lower than many similar platforms, meaning you can see rewards faster.
Pro Tip: While Earnably offers lots of ways to earn, focus on the music-related tasks if that’s what you enjoy most.
10. Unique Rewards
Unique Rewards is not exclusively a music platform, but it does offer opportunities to earn money by listening to your favorite tunes.
This site has been around since 2003, but don’t let its slightly dated look fool you — there’s still money to be made here.
You can earn by listening to music, watching videos, and completing various other tasks.
After signing up, head to the “watch videos” section and look for music videos. Each video you watch nets you a small reward.
Note: Unique Rewards has mixed reviews online. Some users love it, others not so much.
11. Nielsen Computer & Mobile Panel
Ever wished you could get paid for just having an app exist on your device? Well, the Nielsen Computer & Mobile Panel app comes pretty close!
This app runs in the background of your device, tracking your music listening habits — and pays you for the privilege.
Once you install the app, it monitors three main things:
- The kind of music you listen to
- Which streaming platforms you use
- The types of marketing you respond to
Now, I know what you’re thinking — “Isn’t that a bit creepy?” However, Nielsen is a reputable market research company, and they’re not interested in your personal data.
They’re after the big picture stuff to help shape the future of the music industry.
In return for your passive participation, Nielsen rewards you with points that can be redeemed for prizes. It’s basically free money for doing what you’d be doing anyway.
12. Paid Focus Groups
Want to earn bigger bucks for your musical opinions? Paid focus groups might be your jam.
These are exclusive groups in the “get paid to listen to music” world — more exclusive but potentially more rewarding.
Companies and record labels often use focus groups to test new music before it hits the airwaves. They want to know what real people think, and they’re willing to pay for that insight.
Payments can range from $25 to $100 or more per session, depending on the length and complexity of the study.
To get involved, sign up with market research companies such as User Interviews and Respondent.
Keep an eye out for music-related opportunities, and be ready to jump on them quickly — these spots tend to fill up fast!
Remember, focus groups aren’t just about passive listening. You’ll need to articulate your opinions clearly and provide constructive feedback.
13. Cash4Minutes
Cash4Minutes offers a unique twist on the “get paid to listen” concept.
Instead of streaming music online, this platform pays you to call in and listen to radio broadcasts using your phone minutes.
It’s like getting paid to be on hold — except you’re tuning into actual content!
To get started, you sign up, call one of their provided numbers, and listen to the radio broadcast. You earn money for each minute you’re tuned in.
When you’re ready to cash out, you have several options: PayPal, Bitcoin, bank transfer, or Amazon gift cards.
Note: The earning potential depends on how many unused phone minutes you have. If you’re on a limited plan, this might not be the best option.
This would work best for those with plans having unlimited minutes.
14. Be an Online DJ
Ever dreamed of spinning tracks for a living? Well, the digital age has made that dream more accessible than ever.
Being an online DJ isn’t just about playing tunes — it’s about curating experiences, building a following, and, yes, making money.
Platforms like Mixcloud are leading the charge in this space. With their Pro version, you can livestream your sets, grow a dedicated audience, and monetize through tips and channel subscriptions.
One of the great things about Mixcloud is that it handles all the copyright issues, so you can focus on what you do best — dropping beats.
YouTube is another fantastic platform for aspiring DJs. You can showcase your mixing skills, offer tutorials, or even review the latest tracks.
Once you hit 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in a year, you can start monetizing with ads. Plus, there’s always the option of brand sponsorships and affiliate marketing.
Just remember, success as an online DJ doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, dedication, and a willingness to engage with your audience.
But if you’re passionate about music, it can be an incredibly rewarding way to turn your hobby into a high-paying side hustle.
15. Start a Music Blog
Got a way with words and an ear for good tunes? Starting a music blog could be your way to turning that passion into profit.
It’s not just about sharing your favorite tracks — it’s about creating a space where fellow music lovers can discover, discuss, and dive deep into the world of melody and rhythm.
Thinking of starting a music blog? Here are things you can talk about in your blog:
- Review new albums and singles
- Cover live concerts and festivals
- Interview up-and-coming artists
- Analyze music trends and industry news
Once you’ve built up a following, the monetization opportunities are plentiful. Affiliate marketing, sponsored content, ad revenue — the list goes on.
And don’t forget about potential perks like free concert tickets or exclusive album previews!
Getting started is simpler than you might think. Choose a niche, pick a catchy domain name, and set up your WordPress blog.
Then, start creating content and promoting it through SEO and social media. Remember, consistency is key — both in posting schedule and in your unique voice.
If this approach interests you, being a music blogger is just one of many side hustles you can try as a musician — and earn serious money!
16. Focus Forward
If you’re looking for a more structured way to earn from your music listening habits, Focus Forward might be right up your alley.
This market research company conducts various studies, including music-focused ones, that can pad your wallet while you tune in.
Focus Forward organizes music focus groups where participants listen to and provide feedback on new tracks.
These sessions can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, but the payoff can be substantial — we’re talking $50 to $200 per session.
Now, before you get too excited, keep in mind that these opportunities aren’t constant. They pop up sporadically, so you’ll need to stay alert and jump on them when they appear.
To get involved, sign up on their website and keep an eye out for music-related studies.
17. FusionCash
FusionCash is a very versatile tool for online earners — it’s got a tool for every job, including getting paid to listen to music.
But it’s not just about passive listening; FusionCash rewards you for actively engaging with content.
With FusionCash, you can turn your love for music into a modest income. When you sign up, you’ll snag a neat $5 welcome bonus.
Once you’re in, you’ll find the music section easily on your dashboard. As you listen to tracks, expect a captcha to pop up every few minutes to make sure you’re actively tuned in.
But it’s not just about the tunes – you can rack up points by watching videos and taking surveys too. If you’re consistent, you might hit the $25 payout threshold by the end of your first month.
Pro Tip: Diversify your activities on FusionCash to maximize earnings. While listening to music is fun, combining it with other tasks can boost your profits.
18. Sound.me
For TikTok creators, Sound.me is here to turn your viral videos into cash. This platform is all about rewarding content creators for the music they use in their TikTok uploads.
To have an idea, you create TikTok content using tracks from Sound.me, and they pay you based on the number of views your video gets.
We’re talking serious potential here — payouts range from $3.5 for 1,000 views all the way up to $3,500 for a million views. This is not bad for lip-syncing to your favorite tune!
Getting started is easy. Sign up on the Sound.me website, link your TikTok account, and start creating.
They’ll provide instructions on what kind of content to make, ensuring you’re set up for success from the get-go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Spotify Pay You to Listen to Music?
Spotify doesn’t directly pay users for listening, but there are indirect ways to earn.
If you’re a playlist curator with a significant following, you can use platforms like Playlist Push to monetize your Spotify playlists.
These services pay you to review and potentially add new songs to your popular playlists.
Can You Make a Lot of Money Listening to Music?
While you won’t get rich solely from listening to music, you can certainly earn a decent side income.
Combining multiple platforms and strategies — like reviewing songs, transcribing lyrics, and participating in music focus groups — can add up to a few hundred dollars per month.
The key is consistency and diversifying your approach.
How Do You Get Paid for Music?
There are numerous ways to get paid for music-related activities.
You can review tracks on platforms like Slicethepie, transcribe lyrics for WeLocalize, participate in music focus groups, or even start a music blog.
Some apps, like Current Rewards, pay you directly for listening, while others, like Sound.me, reward you for using music in content creation.
Final Thoughts
The world of earning money through music is vast and varied. From passive listening apps to active engagement platforms, there’s something for every type of music enthusiast.
While it may not replace your day job, getting paid to listen to music can be a fun and rewarding way to supplement your income.
Remember, the key to success in this field is diversification. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket — try out different platforms and see what works best for you.
Some might prefer the simplicity of background listening apps, while others might enjoy the creative aspects of music blogging or online DJing.
If you have other ideas on how to get paid to listen to music online or if you have any questions about any of the ideas on our list, we would love to hear from you!
Please drop them in the comments below!
