15 Ways to Making Money by Listening to Music

Are you a music lover? Have you ever thought about making money by listening to music?

Yes, you read that right!

There are more ways than ever to make money by listening to music – both online and offline.

In this article, I’ve shortlisted the 15 BEST WAYS by which you can make money by listening to music.

Earning Cash By Listening To Your Favorite Tracks – What’s It About?

It’s a straightforward and entertaining way to get some extra cash while enjoying music.

Whether you’re relaxing at home, hitting the gym, commuting, or just passing the time, you can make money by simply listening to music. It’s just like making money while watching Youtube videos, and TV shows.

All you need is a device that can play music, like a smartphone or a laptop, and a good internet connection.

There are platforms and apps that pay you to listen to music.

Some conduct market research to know your opinion about a specific song. Others pay you to listen to new artists or bands. This gives them valuable feedback and exposure. Some reward you for writing reviews or lyrics.

You DON’T NEED any musical expertise or skills to start, just your love for music and your honest opinion.

Depending on the platform, you can earn free money or gift cards for every song you listen to or review you submit.

Bonus – you get to discover fresh music and new artists!

Rising Trend of Earning Money by Listening to Music

Earning money by listening to music is gaining popularity for multiple reasons.

First, it’s easy and flexible. You can do it whenever and wherever you want, as long as you have access to 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.

By getting paid to listen to music, you’re turning your passion into a profitable venture.

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.

15 Different Ways to Earn Money by Listening to Music

Below are the BEST ways to make money by listening to music.

#1. Earn Money By Giving Reviews

Music review websites pay users for their opinion on music tracks from different genres and artists.

This feedback helps musicians and record labels to improve their work and plan their marketing strategies.

Some of the best platforms where you can earn money by giving your reviews are:

1. Slicethepie

• It is one of the biggest online platforms that pay for your music reviews.
• Your earnings depend on the quality and length of your feedback.
• You can also review fashion and commercials.
• Minimum threshold to request withdrawal is $10.
• You can withdraw your earnings through PayPal.

2. Current Rewards

• It is one of the most rewarding apps.
• Current Rewards pays you to listen to music on radio stations curated for your taste.
• You get points for sharing your opinion with surveys and completing micro-gigs.
• Points can be spent on products such as headphones, speakers, smartwatches, and more.
• You can earn about $120 yearly.

3. HitPredictor

• On this platform, you listen to new songs and rate their hit potential to earn points.
• Points can redeemed for gift cards like Amazon.
• Participate in weekly contests for more rewards.

4. 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 (number of followers), you get about $1 to $15 per song.

5. RadioEarn

• You earn points (every 15 minutes) for listening to online radio stations from different countries.
• The points can be exchanged for cash or Amazon gift cards.
• Earn more points by referring friends or creating your own radio station.

6. Research.fm

• It’s a music research company that uses your opinions to advise local radio stations about what music to play.
• The company pays you to listen to music and share your opinions through online surveys.
• You get Amazon gift cards for surveys you complete.

7. Cash4Minutes

• It’s a unique service that allows you to earn cash with your monthly unused phone minutes simply by listening to internet radio broadcasts.
• You’ll be rewarded for every minute you are connected and listening to the selected radio broadcast.
• The company has paid over £11m since 2014.
• You can redeem your rewards through PayPal, Bank Transfer, Bitcoin, or Charity Donations.

All you need to do is listen to the radio stations which Cash4Minutes stream in order to earn money. 

8. Earnably

• Earnably is one of the reputed Get-Paid-To (GPT) sites
• You get paid to complete different offers, surveys, and tasks online. This includes listening to music.
• You can redeem your earnings through PayPal cash or gift cards.
• The company offers competitive payout rates.

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KEEP IN MIND

• The pay-per-review is generally low. You’ll need to write many reviews to make decent money.
• You might have to listen to songs that aren’t your taste.
• You need to follow strict guidelines.

#2. Make Money by Rating Music or Audio Clips

Another way is to join online music rating jobs.

All you need to do is listen to songs or audio clips, like – voice assistant apps, speech recognition software, and music streaming platforms, and then rate them.

Below are some of the Music Rating Jobs:

• Lionbridge, a worldwide company that offers 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 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 focuses on localization and translation services. In their project named 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 the English language.

PROS

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

CONS

• You have to clear tests to qualify for the jobs.
• Manage strict deadlines and maintain high-quality standards.
• You might be asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement.

3. Making Money by Taking Music Surveys Online

Another interesting way to earn money by listening to music is by taking music surveys online.

You are asked about your music preferences and habits. The data collected from the surveys help market research companies provide insights to their clients like record labels, musicians, or streaming services.

Some of the BEST places to take online music surveys are:

• Research.fm 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, is another platform that pays you to listen to new songs and new artists and provide feedback. You get 10 cents for listening to a song for at least 30 seconds. All you need to do is create a profile and select the type of music you want to listen.
• Survey Junkie is another well-known online survey site where you earn points for taking surveys on various topics, including music. You can redeem points for PayPal cash or a gift card. To start taking surveys, create an account and verify your email.

PROS

• You influence music industry by sharing your opinions.
• You get to pick surveys of your choice.
• Easy way to earn some cash or a gift card.

CONS

• Limited surveys based on your demographics.
• You may receive spam emails or low-quality surveys from some sites.
• Limited survey invitations depending on the demand.

4. Earning Money by Starting a Music Blog

Another way to get paid to listen to music is by starting 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Choose a way/ways to make money from your blog. You can earn with Google Adsense. It pays you for displaying ads on your blog. 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. Make Money by Curating Playlists

You can also make money by curating playlists. A playlist is a group of songs that share a common theme, mood, genre, occasion, or other criteria.

Here’s How To Curate Playlists:

• Use streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music to create your own playlists or follow others. Some of these services pay you for your playlists based on the number of followers or streams they get.
• Use third-party platforms like Soundplate, SubmitHub, and Indiemono. These sites 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 number of submissions or placements they accept.

PROS

• Share your taste in music and help others find new music.
• Discover new music and artists.
• Earn money from your playlists.

CONS

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

6. Earning Money by Becoming a DJ

You can earn money by becoming a DJ.

Here’s How You Can Become A DJ:

• Get the equipments like laptop, DJ controller, mixer, speakers, headphones, and cables. Also, you’ll need software to access and manipulate your music library.
• Get the skills. You need to know how to match beats, mix songs, loop, scratch, remix, and more. You should also be able to read the crowd, choose the right songs, and create transitions and effects.
• Get the gigs at clubs, bars, festivals, weddings, parties, or radio stations. These 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 get to show your creativity through your music choices and mixes.
• You entertain and interact with your audience.
• Earn money based on your experience and reputation.

CONS

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

7. Becoming a Music Tutor

Other interesting way to earn money is by becoming a music tutor.

You could teach playing an instrument, singing, or understanding the music theory.

To become a music tutor, you need to:

1. Get the necessary qualifications 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 – 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 find students through advertising online or offline, joining online platforms, or getting referrals from your existing students.

PROS

• You get to share your love for music with others.
• Flexibility to work from anywhere with an internet connection.
• 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

You can write songs to make money. 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 get to express yourself and connect with others.
• You can create unique songs that reflect your style.
• Earn money by selling your songs 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

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

CONS

• You 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

Other lucrative way to make money by listening to music is by opening a YouTube music channel.

To make a YouTube Music Channel:

A. 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.

B. 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.

C. 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 part of the royalties.

PROS

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

CONS

• You need to invest in equipment and software.
• Maintain 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 specific genre, artist, or era of music.

Your can discuss music topics, conduct artist interviews, review music, or comment on playlists.

To launch your podcast:

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

B. 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 audience.

CONS

• Investment in equipment and software.
• 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 another way to make money. 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, you can sell them on platforms, like your own website, online marketplaces, or social media.

PROS

• You get to 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 involves enhancing the sound quality of recordings, removing unwanted noise, adding effects, or altering the pitch or tempo of music.

PROS

• You get to improve your musical skills while earning money.
• Potential for a diverse client base and connection.

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 would be playing an instrument or singing during recording sessions or live performances.

To become a session musician:

A. You’ll need the instruments, along with extras like cables, stands, pedals, and tuners.

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

C. Finding the gigs 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. This involves permitting your music to be used for specific purposes or projects.

To license your music:

A. 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.

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

C. Get paid. 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.

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.

Below are some tips to make more money by listening to music:

• Listen to music on different apps and websites. For instance, you can earn money by writing music reviews on Slicethepie and listening to radio stations on Current Rewards. There’s also Playlist Push where you can rate songs, and RadioEarn for streaming online radio.
• Write top-notch reviews that are high quality and original.
• Promoting your playlists on 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 will give 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

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.
• 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. This could mean fewer songs to review or lower pay. To avoid this, always look out for new platforms where you can earn money and join online communities where other music fans share their experiences.

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