Artists can earn royalties through various revenue streams. Here are some of the most common ones:

Streaming

With the rise of digital platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, streaming has become a significant source of income for artists. Each time a song is played, the artist earns a small royalty. The amount earned per stream can vary based on the platform and the artist's contract.

• Spotify: Pays artists a fraction of a cent per stream, but with millions of users, the potential earnings can add up.
• Apple Music: Generally pays more per stream than Spotify, but the overall earnings depend on the number of streams.
• YouTube: Artists can earn money through ad revenue and YouTube's Partner Program.
• Alternative Platforms: Smaller platforms like Bandcamp and SoundCloud also offer opportunities for artists to earn royalties.

Live Performances

Performing live at concerts, festivals, and other events is another way artists can earn royalties. These performances often generate income through ticket sales, merchandise, and performance fees. Additionally, performing rights organizations (PROs) collect royalties on behalf of artists when their music is performed live.

• Concerts: Artists earn money from ticket sales and merchandise sold at the venue.
• Festivals: Performance fees and merchandise sales contribute to an artist's income.
• PRO Royalties: Organizations like ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC collect royalties when an artist's music is performed live.

Sync Licensing

Sync licensing involves the use of an artist's music in TV shows, movies, commercials, and video games. Artists earn royalties each time their music is used in these mediums. Sync licensing can be a lucrative revenue stream, especially if the music is used in popular media.

• TV Shows: Music used in TV shows can earn significant royalties, especially if the show is widely watched.
• Movies: Film placements can provide substantial income, particularly for blockbuster movies.
• Commercials: Advertisements often pay well for the use of popular music.
• Video Games: The gaming industry is a growing market for music licensing, offering new opportunities for artists.

Mechanical Royalties

Mechanical royalties are earned when a song is reproduced, either physically (like CDs and vinyl) or digitally (like downloads and streaming). These royalties are typically collected by organizations like the Harry Fox Agency (HFA) in the U.S.

Performance Royalties

Performance royalties are earned when a song is played publicly, such as on the radio, TV, or live venues. These royalties are collected by performing rights organizations (PROs) like ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC.

Neighboring Rights

Neighboring rights royalties are earned by performers and producers when a song is played publicly. These royalties are similar to performance royalties but are specifically for the sound recording rather than the composition.

Digital Performance Royalties

Digital performance royalties are earned when a song is played on digital platforms like Pandora or SiriusXM. These royalties are collected by organizations like SoundExchange in the U.S.