Making it in the music industry isn’t easy. For many musicians, relying solely on album sales and gigs just doesn’t cut it financially. But don’t despair!
There are plenty of ways to supplement your income while still pursuing your passion for music.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best side hustle ideas for musicians. So grab your instrument (or laptop), and let’s dive in!
From teaching to licensing, streaming to busking, we’ve got you covered with creative ways to monetize your musical talents.
1. Teach Music
Teaching music is a fantastic way to earn some extra cash while honing your own craft. And thanks to the rise of online learning, you’re not limited to just local students anymore.
You can teach various instruments, styles, or even offer vocal coaching. The key is to find your niche and market yourself effectively.
Maybe you’re an expert at jazz piano or a master of acoustic guitar — whatever your specialty, there’s likely someone out there eager to learn from you.
Consider offering lessons through platforms like Skillshare or setting up your own website to attract students.
You could even create pre-recorded video lessons or write an instructional ebook.
2. License Your Music Online
Ever dreamed of hearing your music in a TV show or commercial? Music licensing could make that dream a reality — and put some cash in your pocket too.
Here’s how it works: you create and upload your tracks to licensing platforms like Musicbed or AudioJungle.
Then, when someone wants to use your music in their project, they pay for a license. You get a cut of that fee plus potential royalties down the line.
The key to success in music licensing is consistency and quantity. The more high-quality tracks you have available, the better your chances of making sales.
And don’t be discouraged if it takes a while to see results — licensing can be a slow burn, but it has the potential for some serious passive income over time.
3. Stream Your Music
In today’s digital age, streaming is very popular. And while you might not get rich from Spotify plays alone, streaming can be a valuable piece of your overall income puzzle.
To maximize your streaming potential:
- Focus on building your playlist presence: Get your tracks on popular playlists in your genre.
- Engage with your listeners: Respond to comments, share behind-the-scenes content, and build a community around your music.
- Choose your platforms: Consider live streaming performances on Twitch or YouTube. You can earn money through donations, subscriptions, and ad revenue.
Remember, streaming isn’t just about the money — it’s also a great way to grow your audience and gain exposure. Every stream is a potential new fan!
4. Do Gigs
The bread and butter of many musicians’ income – gigs! While not exactly a “side hustle” in the traditional sense, gigging is still one of the best ways to earn money as a musician.
Don’t limit yourself to just clubs and bars. Think outside the box! Restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, and even private parties can all be potential venues.
And with the rise of virtual concerts, you can now perform for audiences worldwide from the comfort of your own home.
Networking is key here. Build relationships with venue owners, event planners, and other musicians. The more connections you have, the more gig opportunities you’re likely to find.
5. Try Busking
Sometimes, the best stage is the street corner. Busking — performing in public spaces for tips — can be a fun and profitable way to make some extra cash.
Before you start, check your local laws about street performances. Some cities require permits, while others have restrictions on where you can perform.
Choose your spot wisely. High-traffic areas like popular tourist destinations or busy shopping districts are often good bets.
And don’t forget to bring a tip jar or set up a way for people to tip you digitally (like a QR code linked to your Venmo or PayPal).
Busking isn’t just about the money, though. It’s also a great way to practice performing, test out new material, and maybe even gain some new fans!
6. Perform at Events and Weddings
Want to combine your love of music with the joy of special occasions? Consider marketing yourself as an event or wedding musician.
This gig can be particularly lucrative, especially if you build a solid reputation. Couples are often willing to pay top dollar for quality live music on their big day.
You could offer solo performances or team up with other musicians to form a versatile event band.
Consider creating packages for different types of events — cocktail hour, ceremony music, reception entertainment, etc.
Remember to invest in a good PA system and have a diverse repertoire ready to go.
And always, always be professional and reliable. Word-of-mouth recommendations can make or break you in this business.
7. Be a Music Blogger
Blogging about music can be a great way to combine your passion with your writing skills.
You could review albums, interview artists, cover local music scenes, or write about music theory and techniques.
The possibilities are endless, and it’s a fantastic opportunity to share your unique perspective on the music world.
To make money from your blog, consider:
- Affiliate marketing (recommending music gear or courses)
- Display ads
- Sponsored posts
- Creating and selling your own digital products (like ebooks or courses)
To launch a music blog, you’ll need a domain name and WordPress hosting (such as Hostinger’s hosting plans).
Once these basics are in place, you can choose a theme, add essential plugins, and start creating content for your new blog.
Remember, successful blogging takes time and consistent effort. But if you stick with it, you can build a valuable platform and potentially even turn it into a full-time gig.
8. Write and Record Jingles
Do you love hearing catchy melodies? Writing jingles for commercials or podcasts could be right up your alley.
This side hustle requires not just musical talent, but also the ability to work to a brief and meet deadlines.
You’ll need to be able to create short, memorable tunes that effectively convey a brand’s message.
To get started, create a portfolio of sample jingles. You can then pitch your services to advertising agencies, podcasters, or directly to businesses.
Websites like Fiverr or Upwork can also be good places to find jingle-writing gigs.
Keep in mind that jingle writing often involves giving up your rights to the music. Make sure you understand the terms of each project before agreeing to take it on.
9. Create and Sell Merchandise
Who doesn’t love a good band tee? Creating and selling merch is a classic way for musicians to earn extra cash and promote their brand. But don’t limit yourself to just t-shirts — get creative!
Think beyond the basics. Stickers, enamel pins, tote bags, even custom guitar picks — the possibilities are endless.
Consider what your fans might actually use or display proudly. Maybe your synth-pop band could sell retro-style cassette-shaped USB drives loaded with your latest album?
To keep costs down, start with print-on-demand services like Printful or Redbubble. They handle production and shipping, so you can focus on designing cool stuff.
As you grow, you might consider investing in bulk orders for higher profit margins.
Just remember: quality matters. Fans are more likely to buy and wear merch that looks and feels great.
10. Livestream Concerts
Livestreaming concerts have become increasingly popular in recent years. This allows musicians to perform for audiences around the world from remote locations, including their own homes.
Platforms like Twitch, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live make it easy to get started. But don’t just hit ‘go live’ and start playing.
Plan your setlist, test your audio and video quality, and promote the event in advance.
Consider offering something special for online viewers — maybe take requests or do a Q&A session after your set?
Monetization options vary by platform, but typically include:
- Viewer donations or “tips”
- Paid tickets or subscriptions
- Sponsorships or brand partnerships
- Selling merch or digital downloads during the stream
Remember, consistency is key. Regular streams can help you build a loyal online audience — and a steady income stream.
11. Be a Virtual Studio Musician
The rise of home recording tech has created a booming market for virtual session musicians. From laying down bass tracks to adding violin parts, there’s demand for all sorts of instrumental skills.
Websites like AirGigs and SoundBetter connect musicians with clients worldwide.
You’ll need a decent home recording setup — at minimum, a good mic, audio interface, and DAW software. Investing in quality gear can pay off in better-sounding tracks and more satisfied clients.
Build a strong portfolio showcasing your skills across different genres. Be prepared to work fast and take direction well.
And don’t underestimate the importance of clear communication and meeting deadlines — professionalism can set you apart in a crowded field.
12. Create Online Music Courses
Online courses are a great way to monetize your musical expertise — whether that’s instrument lessons, music theory, production techniques, or the business side of the industry.
Platforms like Udemy and Skillshare make it easy to create and sell courses. Or go the DIY route with a platform like Teachable or Kajabi for more control. Either way, focus on providing real value to your students.
Start by identifying your niche. What unique skills or knowledge do you have to offer?
Break your course into digestible chunks, mix up your content (video lessons, written materials, quizzes), and don’t forget to engage with your students.
The more helpful and responsive you are, the more likely you’ll get positive reviews — which can lead to more sales down the line.
13. Rent Out Your Musical Equipment
Got gear gathering dust? Put it to work!
Renting out your musical equipment can be a solid way to generate passive income — especially if you’ve invested in high-quality stuff that you don’t use all the time.
Local musicians, schools, churches, and event organizers are all potential customers.
You could rent out everything from PA systems and amps to more specialized gear like vintage synths or rare pedals.
Just be sure to have clear rental agreements and consider insurance for valuable items.
Websites like SparkPlug and Fat Llama can help you reach a wider audience of potential renters. Or keep it local by networking with other musicians in your area.
Here are some types of musical instruments you can rent out to others on Fat Llama:
Pro Tip: Including setup and operation in your rental package can justify higher rates — especially for complex gear.
14. Be an Equipment Consultant
Love geeking out over gear? Turn that passion into profit! Many musicians find choosing equipment overwhelming. That’s where you come in.
As an equipment consultant, you could help clients:
- Choose the right instruments or gear for their needs and budget
- Set up home recording studios
- Optimize their live sound setup
- Navigate the world of music software and plugins
Your expertise is valuable — don’t be afraid to charge for it. Offer in-person or virtual consultations, create detailed gear guides, or even start a YouTube channel or blog reviewing equipment.
Building relationships with local music stores or online retailers could lead to affiliate partnerships, adding another income stream.
15. Build Instruments
For the craftsy musicians out there, building instruments can be both a fulfilling hobby and a lucrative side gig.
Whether it’s electric guitars, modular synths, or hand drums, there’s a market for unique, handcrafted instruments.
Start small — maybe by modifying existing instruments or building simple percussion. As you gain skills and confidence, you can take on more complex projects.
Document your process; many instrument buyers appreciate knowing the story behind their purchase.
Selling platforms like Reverb or Etsy are great for reaching a global audience of gear enthusiasts. Or connect with local musicians to build a reputation in your area.
Remember that this isn’t a get-rich-quick scheme — quality craftsmanship takes time to develop. But for those with patience and passion, it can be a deeply rewarding pursuit.
16. Repair Instruments
Every musician’s nightmare is a broken instrument. Be the hero who fixes it! Instrument repair can be a steady source of income if you’ve got the skills and tools.
Start by focusing on one type of instrument — guitars are a popular choice due to their wide presence. Learn common issues like fretwork, electronic repair, and setup optimization.
As you gain experience, you can expand your services. Marketing is key here.
Connect with local music stores, offer your services at gigs or music festivals, and don’t underestimate the power of word-of-mouth referrals.
Consider creating tutorial videos or blog posts to demonstrate your expertise — this can attract clients and potentially create additional income streams.
Note that reputation is everything in this business. Always be honest about what you can (and can’t) fix, and prioritize quality work over quick turnarounds.
A well-repaired instrument isn’t just a satisfied customer — it’s a walking advertisement for your skills.
17. Flip Instruments
Got an eye for a bargain? Flipping instruments could be your ticket to extra cash. It’s simple in theory: buy low, sell high. But there’s an art to it.
Start by scouring yard sales, estate sales, and online marketplaces for undervalued instruments.
A little elbow grease can go a long way — learn basic repairs and cleaning techniques to spruce up your finds. Knowledge is power here; research market values and learn to spot hidden gems.
Be wary of “early birds” at yard sales — they’re often pros looking to snag the best deals. And don’t be afraid to haggle, especially if you spot potential issues.
Keep in mind that your profit margin is made when you buy, not when you sell.
Once you’ve got your inventory, platforms like Reverb or eBay are great for reaching buyers. But don’t overlook local options — music stores or schools might be interested in your wares.
Just be sure to accurately describe the condition and provide clear photos.
18. Become a Music Supervisor
Ever watched a film and thought, “Wow, perfect song choice”? That’s the work of a music supervisor.
They’re the professionals who select and license music for TV, films, commercials, and video games.
To succeed in this role, you’ll need:
- A deep knowledge of various music genres
- An understanding of copyright law and licensing
- Strong networking skills
- The ability to work under tight deadlines
Start by interning at a music publishing company or record label to learn the ropes. Build relationships with artists, publishers, and producers — your network will be crucial.
Consider joining the Guild of Music Supervisors for resources and networking opportunities.
Being a music supervisor isn’t just about picking cool songs. You’ll need to balance artistic vision with budget constraints and legal considerations.
But for those who love curating the perfect soundtrack, it can be an incredibly rewarding career.
19. Self-Publish Books About Music
Do you have musical knowledge to share? Why not put pen to paper and write a book? With self-publishing platforms like Amazon KDP, it’s easier than ever to get your words out there.
Think about what unique perspective you can offer. Maybe it’s a guide to navigating the indie music scene or a deep dive into a specific genre or instrument.
Whatever your niche, make sure it’s something you’re passionate about — that enthusiasm will shine through in your writing.
For example, you can self-publish a book about your local indie music scene.
To start, dive into research by interviewing artists and experiencing live shows firsthand. This hands-on approach will give you authentic material for your book.
Once you’ve gathered enough content, it’s time to publish using platforms like Amazon KDP.
When it comes to content, make it engaging and practical. Include useful tips for aspiring musicians and add playlist links to showcase the local talent.
20. Monetize Your Social Media Accounts
In today’s digital age, your social media presence can be more than just a way to connect with fans — it can be a revenue stream. But it takes more than just posting selfies and song lyrics.
First, focus on growing your following organically. Post consistently, engage with your audience and create content that adds value.
Behind-the-scenes glimpses, short performance clips, or music tips can all be great content ideas.
Once you’ve built a solid following, here are some ways to monetize:
- Brand partnerships or sponsorships
- Affiliate marketing (promoting music gear or services)
- Selling merch or digital downloads
- Exclusive content for subscribers
- Running crowdfunding campaigns for specific projects
Remember, authenticity is key. Your followers can spot a hard sell a mile away. Focus on partnerships and promotions that align with your brand and genuinely benefit your audience.
21. Write Songs
Songwriting isn’t just for your own projects — it can be a lucrative side hustle in its own right. From pop hits to commercial jingles, there’s always demand for catchy tunes.
To get started, hone your craft. Study successful songs in various genres. Practice writing to briefs or prompts to flex your creative muscles.
Consider collaborating with other songwriters to learn new techniques and expand your network.
Networking is crucial in the songwriting world. Attend industry events, join songwriting organizations, and don’t be shy about reaching out to artists or producers you admire.
Online platforms like SoundBetter can also connect you with potential clients.
You also have to be very persistent as a composer. Not every song will be a hit, but each one is a learning experience.
Keep writing, keep improving, and keep putting your work out there. You never know when your big break might come!
22. Be a DJ at Events
Got rhythm? Love curating the perfect playlist? DJing events could be your ideal side hustle.
From weddings to corporate parties, there’s always demand for skilled DJs who can read a room and keep the dance floor packed.
Start by investing in quality equipment — a good controller, speakers, and headphones are essentials. Practice mixing tracks seamlessly and learn to use DJ software like Serato or Rekordbox.
Building a diverse music library is crucial; you never know when someone might request that obscure 80s hit!
Marketing yourself is key. Create a professional website showcasing your skills and experience. Network with event planners and venue managers.
Consider specializing in a particular type of event or music genre to stand out from the crowd.
Being a great DJ is about more than just playing songs. It’s about creating an atmosphere, reading the crowd, and adapting on the fly.
23. Be a Voice-Over Talent
If you have a distinctive voice and love to perform, voice-over work could be your calling.
From commercials to audiobooks, podcasts to video games, there’s a wide range of opportunities for voice actors.
To get started, you’ll need:
- A good quality microphone
- A quiet space to record (consider basic soundproofing)
- Audio editing software (Audacity is a great free option)
- A demo reel showcasing your range
Practice different styles and accents. Take acting classes to improve your delivery.
And don’t be afraid to market yourself — create profiles on freelance platforms like Voices.com or Fiverr, and reach out to production companies directly.
Versatility is important in voice-over work. The more types of voices and styles you can deliver, the more work you’re likely to get. So warm up those vocal cords and start talking!
24. Record Music for Other Artists
Do you have a home studio setup? Put it to work by offering recording services to other artists.
With the rise of independent musicians, there’s a growing demand for affordable, quality recording options.
Start by optimizing your space. Even a small room can produce great sound with proper treatment.
Invest in quality microphones and preamps — the Warm Audio WA-14 is a versatile choice that won’t break the bank.
Market your services locally and online. Highlight any unique equipment or expertise you have. Consider offering package deals for full EP or album recordings.
And don’t forget about post-production — mixing and mastering services can add extra value (and income).
Being a great engineer is about more than just technical skills. You need to make artists feel comfortable and creative in the studio.
25. Do Podcasting
Ever thought about starting a podcast? It’s a great way to share your musical expertise and potentially earn some extra cash.
With over a million podcasts out there, the key is finding your unique angle.
Maybe you could dive deep into music history, interview local artists, or break down the songwriting process. Whatever your niche, consistency is key.
Set a regular schedule and stick to it — your listeners will appreciate knowing when to expect new episodes.
Equipment-wise, you don’t need much to get started. A decent microphone, like the Blue Yeti, and some free recording software, such as Audacity, will do the trick.
As you grow, you might want to invest in better gear or even a small home studio setup.
Monetizing your podcast can take time, but there are several routes:
- Advertising and sponsorships
- Listener donations (through platforms like Patreon)
- Selling merchandise
- Offering premium content
Building an audience takes patience. Just focus on creating valuable content, engage with your listeners, and the rest will follow.
26. Produce and Sell Beats or Instrumentals
Do you love crafting catchy rhythms or atmospheric soundscapes? Producing and selling beats or instrumentals could be your ticket to extra income — and, potentially, big breaks in the industry.
Start by honing your production skills. Experiment with different genres and styles to find your unique sound.
Further, invest in quality software, like FL Studio or Ableton Live, and take the time to really learn its ins and outs.
When it comes to selling, platforms like BeatStars and Airbit are popular choices. They handle the licensing and payment processing, allowing you to focus on creating.
Price your beats competitively at first to attract customers, but don’t undervalue your work.
Success in this field often comes down to volume and consistency. Keep creating, keep uploading, and keep promoting your work.
You never know which track might catch the ear of the next big artist!
27. Be a Music Transcriptionist
Have you tried listening to a song and wished you had the sheet music? That’s where music transcriptionists come in.
If you’ve got a good ear and solid music theory knowledge, this could be a perfect side hustle for you.
Transcription involves listening to a piece of music and writing it down in musical notation. This can include melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and even specific instrument parts.
Here’s what you’ll need to be a successful transcriptionist in this field:
- Strong music theory knowledge
- Familiarity with notation software (like Sibelius or Finale)
- A good pair of headphones
Look for opportunities on freelance platforms or reach out to local music schools or publishers.
As you build your portfolio, you might even specialize in certain genres or instruments.
28. Arrange Music
Music arrangement could be your calling if you have a knack for reimagining songs.
From creating new versions of popular tunes to adapting pieces for different ensembles, arrangers play a crucial role in the music world.
Start by studying different styles of arrangement. How does a pop song translate to a jazz ensemble? How can you adapt a classical piece for a rock band?
The more versatile you are, the more opportunities you’ll have.
Building a portfolio is important. Start with public domain works or get permission to arrange copyrighted pieces.
Share your arrangements on platforms like MuseScore or SoundCloud to showcase your skills.
Networking is crucial in this field. Connect with local bands, choirs, or orchestras who might need arranging services.
Don’t forget about the educational market — schools often need arrangements tailored to their specific ensembles.
29. Set up a Recording Studio
Always dreamed of having your own recording studio? With today’s technology, it’s more achievable than ever — and it could become a lucrative side hustle.
Start small. A spare room with some basic soundproofing can work wonders.
Invest in quality equipment gradually — a good audio interface, a couple of versatile microphones, and reliable monitoring are essentials.
The Focusrite Scarlett series is a popular choice for interfaces, while the Shure SM58 is a workhorse mic that won’t break the bank.
Prioritize marketing. Network with local musicians, offer competitive rates for your first clients and consider specializing in a particular genre or type of recording.
Word-of-mouth can be your best advertising, so focus on delivering great results and a positive studio experience.
Running a studio is about more than just gear. You’ll need to wear many hats — engineer, producer, and even therapist at times.
30. Promote Concerts
Love live music? Why not get paid to help make it happen? Concert promotion can be an exciting and rewarding side hustle for music enthusiasts.
You can start by organizing shows at local venues or community events. Build relationships with musicians, venue owners, and other industry professionals.
Learn the ins and outs of event planning, from booking acts to managing ticket sales.
As you gain experience, you can take on bigger events. Consider partnering with charities or community organizations — it’s a great way to build your reputation while supporting good causes.
Just remember to have contingency plans for potential issues like no-show bands or weather problems for outdoor events.
Promotion is key in this business. Utilize social media, local press, and good old-fashioned word of mouth to get the word out.
And don’t forget about sponsors — they can help cover your costs and increase your profit margins.
31. Offer Music Production Services
If you have the skill for crafting polished, radio-ready tracks, try to offer your production skills to other artists. It’s a great way to flex your creative muscles and earn cash at the same time.
First things first: you’ll need a decent home studio setup. A good DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is essential — Logic Pro, Ableton Live, or FL Studio are popular choices.
Don’t forget to invest in quality monitoring headphones and speakers, as well.
To market your services, build a portfolio of your best work and showcase it on platforms like SoundCloud or Bandcamp.
Network with local artists and offer your services at competitive rates to get started. As you build your reputation, you can start to specialize in certain genres or styles.
Further, a great producer brings out the best in the artists you work with. So brush up on your people skills and get ready to make some beautiful music!
32. Offer Audio Engineering Services
Are you more into the technical side of music? Audio engineering might be your perfect side hustle.
From recording to mixing and mastering, there’s always demand for skilled engineers who can make tracks shine.
To be successful in this role, you need the following:
- A good understanding of acoustics and sound theory
- Proficiency in various DAWs and plugins
- Quality monitoring equipment
- A well-treated room for accurate listening
Consider specializing in a particular area — maybe you’re a whiz at vocal tuning, or perhaps you’ve got the talent for creating larger-than-life drum sounds.
Don’t forget about live sound engineering, too! Venues and touring bands often need skilled engineers. It’s a great way to network and build your reputation in the local music scene.
33. Be a Music Journalist
For those who have a way with words and a passion for music, journalism might be the right job for you.
From album reviews to artist interviews, there’s plenty of opportunity to combine your love of music with your writing skills.
Start by honing your writing chops. Read lots of music journalism to get a feel for different styles and formats. Practice writing reviews of albums you love (or hate!).
Develop your unique voice — what perspective can you bring that’s fresh and interesting? Look for opportunities to contribute to music blogs or local publications.
Many start as unpaid gigs, but they’re great for building your portfolio. As you gain experience, you can pitch to larger publications or even start your own music blog.
To be a great music journalist, you need to be able to analyze and contextualize the music you’re writing about.
So brush up on your music history and theory, and get ready to dive deep into the world of sound!
34. Apply for Music Grants
Here’s a side hustle that’s often overlooked: applying for music grants. It’s not exactly passive income, but it can provide a significant boost to your musical projects.
First, do your research. There are grants available for all sorts of musical endeavors — from recording albums to touring to music education projects.
Look into local arts councils, national endowments, and private foundations. Don’t forget about genre-specific organizations too!
When applying, be clear and specific about your project. How will the grant money be used? What’s your timeline? What impact will your project have? Grant committees love to see well-thought-out plans.
Grant writing is also a skill in itself. Take a workshop or course to improve your grant writing abilities. It could pay off big time in the long run!
35. Start a Music-Related YouTube Channel
Lights, camera, action! Starting a YouTube channel can be a fun and potentially lucrative side hustle for musicians.
You don’t even need fancy equipment to get started — just your smartphone and a bit of creativity.
Think about what unique content you can offer. Maybe you’re great at breaking down complex music theory concepts.
Or perhaps you can offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into the life of a working musician.
Tutorial videos, gear reviews, or even vlogs about your musical journey can all find an audience.
Consistency is important on YouTube. Set a regular upload schedule and stick to it. Engage with your viewers through comments and community posts.
As your channel grows, you can monetize through ads, sponsorships, or by promoting your own music and merch.
Building a successful YouTube channel takes time and patience, though. But with persistence and a bit of luck, you could find yourself with a whole new income stream.
36. Review Music
For those with strong opinions about music, go ahead and put them to good use by reviewing music.
It’s a great way to stay on top of new releases and potentially get your writing in front of a wide audience.
With this gig, you’ll need to develop your critical listening skills.
It’s not just about whether you like a song or not — you need to be able to articulate why, considering elements like composition, production, and cultural context.
Look for opportunities to contribute to music blogs or online publications. Many accept pitches from freelance writers.
As you build your portfolio, you might even land paid gigs with larger publications or start your own review blog.
Take note that a great music review does more than just describe the music. It provides context, analysis, and a compelling argument for your opinion.
So sharpen your writing skills, open your ears, and get ready to influence the world of music criticism!
37. Be a Music Manager
Think you’ve got what it takes to guide an artist’s career? Music management could be an exciting and potentially lucrative side hustle.
It’s a job that requires wearing many hats — part business strategist, part creative consultant, part therapist.
As a manager, your responsibilities might include:
- Negotiating contracts
- Booking gigs and tours
- Developing marketing strategies
- Managing the artist’s image and brand
- Liaising with record labels, publishers, and other industry professionals
Start by managing a local band or artist. Help them book gigs, promote their music, and develop their career strategy.
As you gain experience and contacts in the industry, you can take on more clients or even specialize in a particular genre or market.
Success in music management often comes down to your network and your ability to spot and develop talent. So get out there, attend industry events, and always be on the lookout for the next big thing!
38. Organize Music Events
If you love bringing people together through music, organizing music events could be your perfect side hustle.
From intimate house concerts to full-blown festivals, there’s an event scale to suit every organizer.
You can start small by showcasing local bands at a community center. As you gain experience, you can take on bigger events.
Consider partnering with local businesses or charities to increase your reach and impact.
Key skills for successful event organizing include:
- Budgeting and financial management
- Marketing and promotion
- Logistics and scheduling
- Networking and relationship-building
From sound equipment to porta-potties, make sure you’ve thought of everything. And always have backup plans for when things inevitably don’t go as expected.
With hard work and a bit of luck, you could find yourself at the helm of the next big music festival.
So put on your planning hat and get ready to create some unforgettable musical experiences!
Final Thoughts
From teaching to tech, writing to repairing — there’s no shortage of ways for musicians to earn extra cash. The key? Finding the right fit for your skills, interests, and schedule.
Remember, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one side hustle. Many musicians successfully juggle multiple gigs.
Maybe you teach lessons on weekdays, gig on weekends, and work on your beat-selling business in between. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where your passions meet profitability.
Also, keep in mind that building a successful side hustle takes time and effort. The music industry is always evolving, and so should you.
Which particular music-related side hustle in our list interested you the most? Tell us in the comments section below! We will also be glad to answer any questions you may have about the topic!
