15 Ways to Making Money by Listening to Music

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Are you a music lover? Have you ever thought about making money by doing what you love – listening to music? Well, you’re in the right place.

There are many opportunities to get paid to listen to music online and offline.

In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll dive deep into this intriguing concept, its growing popularity, and how you could benefit from it.

Earning Cash as You Listen to Your Favorite Tracks: What’s It About?

Earning money by listening to music is a straightforward and entertaining way to get some additional income while immersing yourself in various songs and genres. Whether you’re relaxing at home, hitting the gym, commuting, or just passing the time, you can make money by simply listening to music.

All you require is a device that can play music, like a smartphone or a laptop, and a good internet connection, and just like making money while watching TV shows, you can make money listening to music.

There are a bunch of platforms and apps that are willing to pay you to listen to music. Some conduct market research by seeking your opinion about a specific song. Others pay you to listen to new artists or bands, offering them valuable feedback or exposure.

Some even reward you for writing reviews or lyrics based on the music you hear.

You don’t need any musical expertise or skills to start, just your love for music and readiness to express your thoughts and feelings honestly. Depending on the platform, you can earn free money or gift cards for every song you listen to or review you submit. Plus, you can discover fresh music and new artists you might like.

The Rising Trend of Earning Money by Listening to Music

Earning money by listening to music is gaining popularity for several reasons. First, it’s easy and flexible. You can do it whenever and wherever you want, as long as you have access to music and the internet. Plus, you get to pick the kind of music you want to groove to, be it pop, rock, rap, country, or anything else.

Listening to music is a pleasure that many of us love. It uplifts your mood, enhances your creativity, boosts productivity, and aids relaxation. By getting paid to listen to music, you’re turning your passion into a profitable venture and having fun while at it.

Lastly, it’s a win-win for both listeners and artists. As a listener, you earn money while enjoying your favorite tunes or exploring new ones. As for artists, they get valuable feedback and exposure for their music, reaching out to new audiences. This setup improves their craft and boosts their success rate in the highly competitive music industry.

What’s in It for You: Benefits of Earning Money by Listening to Music

There are numerous benefits of earning money by listening to music. Some of these include:

  • You get paid for doing something you already enjoy.
  • You can appreciate music while carrying out other activities.
  • You might discover new artists or genres that align with your taste.
  • You contribute to the creative process and influence the music industry.
  • You support artists by offering valuable feedback and exposure.
  • Your musical skills and knowledge could see a boost.

15 Different Ways to Earning Money by Listening to Music

1. Listen to Music and Earn Money By Giving Reviews

Ever thought about getting paid just to listen to music? It might seem like a dream, but it’s a reality thanks to music review websites. They pay users like you to listen to tracks from a variety of genres and artists and provide your thoughts about them.

This feedback helps musicians and record labels enhance their work and plan their marketing strategies. These are some of the best platforms where you can earn money by listening to music:

  • Slicethepie: As one of the biggest online platforms that pay for reviews, Slicethepie allows you to listen to music and write your thoughts about it. The amount of money you can earn for each review depends on the quality and length of your feedback. You can also review things other than music, like fashion or commercials. Once you’ve earned $10, you can transfer the money to your PayPal account.
  • Current Rewards: This app pays you to listen to music on radio stations curated for your taste. You can select from more than 100 genres and collect points for every minute you listen. Completing surveys or referring friends can earn you extra points, which can be redeemed for cash or gift cards. With this app, you can earn up to $600 each year.
  • HitPredictor: On this platform, you can listen to new songs and rate their hit potential to earn points. These points can be traded for prizes like Amazon gift cards. HitPredictor also runs weekly contests for more rewards.
  • Playlist Push: If you own a playlist with at least 400 followers on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music, you can sign up with Playlist Push. This platform connects independent artists with playlist curators like you, allowing you to get paid to listen to new songs and add them to your playlist. Depending on your influence, you can earn between $1 and $15 per song.
  • RadioEarn: By listening to online radio stations from different countries, you can earn points every 15 minutes. The points can be exchanged for cash or Amazon gift cards. You can earn even more by referring friends or creating your own radio station.
  • Research.fm: Research.fm pays you to listen to music and share your opinions through online surveys. You receive Amazon gift cards for every survey you complete.
  • Cash4Minutes: This unique platform pays you to listen to radio broadcasts over the phone. You can call a number to listen to various radio stations from around the world and earn cash for every minute you listen to. The cash can be withdrawn via PayPal, Bitcoin, or gift cards.
  • Earnably: At this GPT site, you get paid to complete tasks online, including listening to music. You earn points for these activities, which can be redeemed for cash or gift cards.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Although you can discover new music and improve your writing skills, the pay-per-review is generally low, meaning you’ll need to write many reviews to make a decent income. Also, you may have to listen to songs that aren’t to your taste, and the guidelines for writing reviews can be strict.


2. Making Money by Rating Music

One way to listen to music and get paid is by finding music rating jobs online. These jobs need you to listen to songs or audio clips, rate them, and thus, help companies enhance their products or services.

Products can range from voice assistant apps, speech recognition software to music streaming platforms. Some great music rating jobs are:

  • Lionbridge: A worldwide company offering online jobs like web content assessment, data tagging, transcription, and more. One of their projects is the Internet Assessor project where you rate the quality of web content, including audio clips. But, to work with Lionbridge, you need to clear an online assessment test.
  • Appen: Similar to Lionbridge, Appen also offers various online jobs. In their project named Shasta, you rate the efficiency of voice commands for smart devices. But before you can start working for Appen, you must pass a qualification test.
  • Welocalize: A company focusing on localization and translation services. In their project named iTS (iTunes Transcription Services), you transcribe and rate song lyrics for Apple Music. To work with Welocalize, you need a good ear for music and an excellent command of English.

Pros

  • You earn more money than music review sites as the payment per hour or task is higher.
  • You can work flexibly from any location with an internet connection.
  • You can acquire new skills and get experience in online jobs.

Cons

  • You may need to clear tough tests before you can qualify for the jobs.
  • You may need to manage strict deadlines and maintain high-quality standards.
  • You might need to sign a non-disclosure agreement and not disclose any details about the projects.

3. Making Money by Taking Music Surveys Online

Another way to earn money by listening to music is by taking music surveys online. These surveys ask about your music preferences and habits. The data collected from these surveys help market research firms provide insights to their clients like record labels, musicians, or streaming services.

Here are some of the best online music surveys:

  • Research.fm: A site that pays you to take short surveys about radio stations and music. You earn Amazon gift cards for every survey you complete. To start taking surveys, register with your email and zip code.
  • Musicxray: A site that pays you to listen to new songs from up-and-coming artists and provide feedback. For every song you listen to for at least 30 seconds, you earn 10 cents. To start, you need to create a profile indicating your music tastes and genres.
  • Survey Junkie: A well-known online survey site where you earn points for taking surveys on various topics, including music. You can convert your points into cash via PayPal or gift cards from Amazon, iTunes, and more. To start taking surveys, create an account and verify your email.

Pros

  • You can share your opinions on music and influence the music industry.
  • You can pick surveys that interest you.
  • You can earn cash or gift cards to use for online shopping or streaming.

Cons

  • You may not qualify for some surveys based on your demographics or location.
  • You may not get many survey invitations depending on the demand.
  • You may receive spam emails or low-quality surveys from some sites.

4. Earning Money by Starting a Music Blog

Another way to get paid to listen to music is by starting a music blog. In a music blog, you can write about music-related topics like reviews, news, interviews, tips, guides, and more. A music blog can be a great way to share your passion for music and connect with other music lovers.

Here’s how to start a music blog:

  • Pick a niche: A niche is a specific category that your blog will focus on. For instance, your niche could be a genre, artist, decade, region, or theme. Picking a niche can help your blog stand out and attract a dedicated audience.
  • Pick a platform: Choose a platform like WordPress to create and manage your blog. WordPress lets you customize your blog with various features. You’ll also need to choose a domain name and a web hosting service for your blog.
  • Pick a way to make money: You can make money from your blog in several ways. You could use Google Adsense, which displays ads on your blog and pays you when someone clicks on them. Another way is through affiliate marketing, where you promote other companies’ products or services and earn money when someone buys them through your links.

Pros

  • You can show off your creativity and knowledge of music and build your online reputation.
  • You can build an audience and connect with other music bloggers, artists, or industry professionals.
  • You can earn passive income from your blog even when you’re not working on it.

Cons

  • You may need to invest time and money to set up and maintain your blog.
  • You may face competition from other music blogs and SEO challenges.
  • You may need to produce high-quality and original content regularly to keep your audience engaged.

5. Making Money by Curating Playlists

One more way to get paid to listen to music is by curating playlists. A playlist is a group of songs that share a common theme, mood, genre, occasion, or other criteria. It helps listeners discover new music or enjoy their favorite songs.

Here’s how to curate playlists:

  • Use streaming services: Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music let you create your own playlists or follow others’. Some of these services pay you for your playlists based on how many followers or streams they get.
  • Use third-party platforms: Sites like Soundplate, SubmitHub, and Indiemono connect playlist curators with artists or record labels. They let you submit your playlists or apply to feature songs from emerging or independent artists. Some of these platforms pay you for your playlists based on how many submissions or placements they accept.

Pros

  • You can share your taste in music and help others find new music.
  • You can discover new music and artists.
  • You can earn money from your playlists based on various factors.

Cons

  • You may need to meet certain requirements to join some platforms or services as a curator.
  • You may need to regularly update your playlists to keep them fresh.
  • You may face copyright disputes from artists or labels.

6. Earning Money by Becoming a DJ

Another way to earn money by listening to music is by becoming a DJ. A DJ plays and mixes music for an audience, creating a fun atmosphere.

Here’s how to become a DJ:

  • Get the equipment: To be a DJ, you’ll need a laptop, a DJ controller, a mixer, speakers, headphones, and cables. Also, you’ll need software or an app to access and manipulate your music library.
  • Get the skills: As a DJ, you’ll need to know how to match beats, mix songs, loop, scratch, remix, and more. Additionally, you’ll need to read the crowd, choose the right songs, and create transitions and effects.
  • Get the gigs: DJing at clubs, bars, festivals, weddings, parties, or radio stations are all opportunities for you to make money. Find gigs by networking with other DJs, promoters, or managers, creating an online portfolio, or applying for opportunities online.

Pros

  • You can show your creativity through your music choices and mixes.
  • You can entertain and interact with your audience.
  • You can earn money based on your experience and reputation.

Cons

  • You may need to invest money to buy or rent the equipment you need.
  • You may need a lot of practice to master the skills needed.
  • You may face competition from other DJs or deal with difficult clients or situations.

7. Becoming a Music Tutor

One way to earn money by listening to music is by becoming a music tutor. As a music tutor, you would teach people of all ages and skills about music. This could include teaching them how to play an instrument, sing a song, or understand music theory.

To become a music tutor, you need to:

  1. Get the necessary qualifications: You need certain credentials like a degree in music education or a certificate that proves your ability to teach music. You also need to be highly proficient in your instrument or subject of choice.
  2. Get the teaching materials: You’ll need an instrument (if applicable), books, sheet music, videos, and software. You also need a lesson plan that covers what you want to teach.
  3. Get the students: You can teach anyone, from children to adults. You can find students through advertising online or offline, joining online platforms, or getting referrals from your existing students.

Pros of being a music tutor:

  • You can share your love for music with others.
  • You have the flexibility to work from anywhere with an internet connection.
  • You get paid to listen to music and teach it, based on your qualifications and experience.

Cons:

  • You need to meet certain requirements to teach.
  • You have to regularly update your materials and lesson plans.
  • You have to deal with different learning styles and needs.

8. Songwriting

Another way to get paid to listen to music is by writing songs. A song combines lyrics, melody, harmony, and rhythm to convey emotions, tell stories, or entertain.

To write songs, you need to:

  1. Find inspiration: This could come from your own experiences, feelings, or from other songs, genres, or styles.
  2. Structure the song: You need to organize your song into sections. You can use common structures or create your own. Variations or transitions can help make your song interesting.
  3. Get the elements right: Your song needs lyrics, a melody, harmony, and rhythm.

Pros:

  • You can express yourself and connect with others.
  • You can create unique songs that reflect your style.
  • You can earn money from your songs by selling them or collecting royalties.

Cons:

  • You may face writer’s block.
  • You may have to work with others to complete your songs.
  • You need to protect your songs from theft.

9. Freelance Music Transcription

Music transcription involves converting music from audio or video format into written or digital format. This is a great way to earn money by listening to music. Musicians use these transcriptions to learn or perform songs.

To transcribe music, you need to:

  1. Have the right software: You can use notation software or transcription software. You’ll also need good headphones and possibly a MIDI keyboard.
  2. Have the necessary skills: You need a good ear for music and the ability to identify musical elements by listening. You also need a good knowledge of music theory and notation.
  3. Get clients: You can transcribe music for musicians, teachers, or hobbyists. You can find clients through advertising, joining online platforms, or getting referrals.

Pros of music transcription:

  • You can improve your musical skills.
  • You get to work on different types of music.
  • You earn money listening to music, based on your speed and quality.

Cons:

  • You may need to invest in software.
  • It can be time-consuming to transcribe music accurately.
  • You may have to deal with low-quality audio or video sources.

10. YouTube Music Channel

Earning money by indulging in your love for music is achievable by establishing a YouTube music channel. This path allows you to get paid to listen to music while articulating your passion for various music genres.

To do this, you should:

Choose your niche: Select a specific genre, artist, or theme you’re passionate about. A distinct focus will make your channel unique, attracting followers with similar interests.

Create engaging content: From cover songs to reactions to music videos, album reviews, or artist interviews, each video format allows you to listen to music, get paid, and have fun.

Monetize your channel: Make use of YouTube’s advertising program or its subscription service, both of which can generate revenue. Another source of income could be through YouTube Music, where viewers can listen to your music and you receive a portion of the royalties.

Pros of running a YouTube music channel:

  • It enables you to combine your passion for music with income generation.
  • It allows for creativity and personal expression.

Cons:

  • You’ll need to invest in equipment and software.
  • Maintaining regular, high-quality content is crucial.
  • You may encounter competition and copyright issues.

11. Launching a Spotify Podcast

Starting a Spotify podcast is another way to get paid to listen to music. Just like a YouTube music channel, you can specialize in a specific genre, artist, or era of music. Your podcast could discuss music topics, conduct artist interviews, review music, or comment on playlists.

To launch your podcast:

Create engaging content: Discussions, interviews, reviews, or commentaries allow you to listen to music and earn money.

Monetize your podcast: Make use of Spotify’s advertising program or collaborate with sponsors and advertisers on Spotify’s podcasting platform.

Pros:

  • You get paid to share your insights about music.
  • Your podcast could reach a wide range of listeners.

Cons:

  • Investment in equipment and software is necessary.
  • Regular production of original, high-quality content is crucial.
  • Competition and copyright issues can be challenges.

12. Selling Beats Online

Creating and selling beats online is an engaging way to listen to music and get paid. This requires certain software to create and edit your beats, as well as knowledge of how to compose different musical elements. Once your beats are ready, they can be sold on various platforms, like your own website, online marketplaces, or social media.

Pros:

  • You can express your creativity and earn money.
  • You have control over your work and selling platform.

Cons:

  • Investment in software and time spent creating and editing beats is needed.
  • Protecting your beats from theft can be challenging.

13. Audio Editing

Audio editing offers another avenue to get paid listening to music. This involves enhancing the sound quality of recordings, removing unwanted noise, adding effects, or altering the pitch or tempo of music.

Pros:

  • Improving your musical skills while earning money.
  • The potential for a diverse client base.

Cons:

  • Investment in necessary software and equipment.
  • Handling low-quality or unclear audio sources can be challenging.

14. Becoming a Session Musician

As a session musician, you can get paid to listen to music. Your role would involve playing an instrument or singing during recording sessions or live performances.

To become a session musician:

Acquire the equipment: You’ll need the appropriate instruments, along with extras like cables, stands, pedals, and tuners.

Develop your skills: Proficiency in your chosen instrument, versatility in music styles, good communication, and teamwork skills are essential.

Find the gigs: Opportunities can be found through networking, creating an online profile, or by applying for online opportunities.

Pros:

  • You can showcase your talent and work with a variety of artists or bands.
  • The potential for diverse and exciting work opportunities.

Cons:

  • You may need to invest in equipment and maintain a rigorous practice schedule.
  • Managing unpredictable work schedules can be challenging.

15. Licensing Your Music

Licensing your music is another way to earn money by listening to music. This involves permitting your music to be used for specific purposes or projects.

To license your music:

Secure the rights: Ensure you have the master rights and publishing rights to your music. Register your music with a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) to collect royalties.

Find the deals: Collaborate with sync licensing companies, record labels, artists, or producers.

Get paid: You can receive upfront fees, royalty fees, or profit-sharing fees based on the use of your music.

Pros:

  • You maintain ownership and control over your music.
  • Your music can reach a diverse audience.

Cons:

  • Dealing with complex legal matters can be challenging.
  • You may need to compromise your artistic vision when licensing your music.

Listening to music is not just fun but can also help you earn money. There are various ways to get paid to listen to music, whether online or offline. You could write reviews, rate songs, answer surveys, blog, curate playlists, DJ, tutor, write songs, transcribe music, start a YouTube channel, start a Spotify podcast, sell beats, edit audio, become a session musician, or license music. All you need is a passion for music and a willingness to try new things. So why wait? Start listening to music and earning money today!

Tips for Earning More Money by Listening to Music

Earning money by listening to music while doing nothing is a fun way to make a few extra bucks. To make the most out of it, here are some tips:

  • Listen to music on different apps and websites: You can earn more if you listen to music on several apps or websites. For instance, you can earn money by listening to music on Slicethepie for writing reviews or on Current Rewards for listening to radio stations. There’s also Playlist Push where you can rate songs, and RadioEarn for streaming online radio.
  • Writing top-notch reviews: To get paid more for your reviews, they need to be of high quality and original. Honesty, being specific and detailed in your review, using good grammar, and providing feedback about the song, like the lyrics or melody, can help.
  • Promoting your playlists: If you love sharing your favorite songs, platforms like Spotify or YouTube can help you reach more people. Make a catchy profile name, upload good content regularly, interact with your followers, and promote your music on social media.
  • Networking in the music industry: Networking with people who also love music can open new opportunities and collaborations. You can meet new people at music events, on online communities or forums, or by reaching out via email or social media.

Possible Problems and Solutions When You Get Paid to Listen to Music

While getting paid to listen to music sounds like a dream, there are some challenges you might face:

  • Unpredictable income: Unlike a regular job, there’s no guaranteed income when you get paid to listen to music. The amount you earn depends on how many songs are available, how much each platform pays, and how much time you can dedicate to this activity. It’s best to use this as an extra way to earn money and sign up on multiple platforms that pay you to listen to music.
  • Time versus payout: It could be challenging to balance the time you spend listening to music and the money you earn. Some platforms pay a little per song, which means you need to listen to a lot of music to make a decent amount. Others might pay more but require you to write detailed reviews, which can take a lot of time. Choose platforms that suit your preferences, like Slicethepie or Playlist Push if you enjoy writing reviews, or Current Rewards or RadioEarn if you prefer just listening.
  • Popular platforms might have too many users: As more people get paid by listening to music, some platforms might become too crowded. This could mean fewer songs to review or lower pay. To avoid this, always look out for new platforms where you can earn money listening to music and join online communities where other music fans share their experiences.

Final Thoughts

Listening to music is a great way to enjoy yourself and possibly earn some extra money. By using various online platforms, you can get paid to listen to music. However, you should also be aware of the possible problems and how to solve them. This way, you can have fun listening to music while also earning money.

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