Music streaming has revolutionised how we listen, but questions persist over whether artists are fairly compensated. With Spotify paying between $0.003 and $0.005 per stream, many musicians struggle to earn a living from the platform alone. However, there are practical steps listeners can take to ensure their favourite artists thrive.
Phoenix-based singer-songwriter Victoria Bigelow recommends switching to services like Bandcamp, which passes 80-85% of sales to the label or artist, or Tidal, which pays around $0.013 per stream. “If you're an audiophile, Tidal is the best place to start,” she says. Apple Music also offers a higher average royalty rate than Spotify, a difference that Bigelow says “definitely shows up in my bank account.”
A Spotify spokesperson countered that smaller services appear to pay more per stream simply because users engage less, emphasising that Spotify’s scale and active listening matter. But for artists, the numbers speak volumes.
Merchandise sales remain a crucial revenue stream, especially as touring becomes increasingly expensive. “Everyone gets a cut before you do, and touring can put people in a rough spot,” Bigelow explains. She encourages fans to buy merch directly from artists, as it gives them more control over their income.
Beyond purchases, Bigelow urges listeners to engage locally. “There's a movement towards physical interaction and community-driven spaces. Show up for local artists,” she says. Follow local venues on social media, sign up for newsletters, and tune into college radio stations via sites like Campus.fm to discover emerging talent.
