Based on average industry payouts. Actual rates vary.
Know the game
175x
One iTunes download = 175 Spotify streams. Downloads still punch above their weight.
$4K
1M Spotify streams pays about $4,000. Artists hit that number every day.
5+
Platforms paying you at once is the real move. Stack your streams.
What to do with your earnings
01
Distribute to every platform
DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby get your music on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon, and 150+ stores. DistroKid charges ~$23/yr for unlimited uploads. TuneCore charges per release but pays 100% of royalties.
02
Register your royalties
Most independent artists leave money on the table by not registering with a PRO (Performing Rights Organization). ASCAP and BMI collect performance royalties every time your song plays on radio, TV, or streaming. Free to join.
03
Claim your mechanical royalties
Every stream generates a mechanical royalty — a separate payment from performance royalties. The MLC (Mechanical Licensing Collective) collects these in the US. Register at themlc.com to claim what's already owed to you.
04
Pitch for sync licensing
One sync placement in a TV show, film, or ad can pay $500–$50,000+ — often more than years of streaming. Music supervisors license songs that are RadioReady: strong production, clear mix, no sample clearance issues.
05
Understand your royalty splits
Every dollar your song earns is split across multiple royalty types. Knowing who pays what helps you collect everything you're owed.