Introduction

Are you passionate about singing and looking for ways to turn that passion into income? Whether you’re seeking a side hustle or a full-time career, there are numerous opportunities to earn money with singing skills. This article explores 15 different options, complete with income ranges and tips on how to get started. Whether you’re a seasoned vocalist or just starting out, these ideas can help you find the right path to monetize your talent.

1. Private Vocal Coaching

Income Range: $30 – $150 per hour

Teaching others how to sing is one of the most straightforward ways to make money with your vocal skills. Whether in-person or online, you can offer one-on-one or group lessons tailored to students’ needs. Advertise your services through local music schools, online platforms, and social media to build a steady client base.

How to Start:

• Build Your Portfolio: Start by offering free or discounted lessons to friends or local students to gain experience and testimonials.
• Advertise Your Services: Create a simple website or social media page highlighting your expertise, experience, and rates. Use platforms like Thumbtack or Fiverr to reach potential students.
• Network: Connect with local music schools, choirs, and community centers to spread the word about your services.

2. Performances and Gigs

Income Range: $100 – $500+ per gig

Performing at local venues, weddings, corporate events, and private parties can be a lucrative way to earn money with singing. Networking with local musicians and event planners can help you secure regular gigs and build a reputation in your area.

How to Start:

• Build a Repertoire: Develop a setlist that showcases your vocal range and style. Consider recording a demo to share with potential clients.
• Network Locally: Attend open mics, join local musician groups, and reach out to venues like bars, cafes, and event spaces to inquire about performing opportunities.
• Join Gig Platforms: Sign up for platforms like GigSalad or GigMasters to find events where you can perform.

3. Session Singing

Income Range: $100 – $500 per song/session

As a session singer, you can lend your voice to studio recordings, jingles, commercials, and background vocals. This work can be done both in-person and remotely, making it a flexible option. Platforms like SoundBetter and AirGigs can help you find opportunities.

How to Start:

• Create a Demo Reel: Record samples of your singing across different styles to showcase your versatility.
• Join Online Platforms: Register on platforms like SoundBetter or AirGigs, where you can connect with producers and artists looking for session singers.
• Network with Local Studios: Reach out to local recording studios and offer your services as a session singer.

4. YouTube Channel

Income Range: $1 – $3 per 1,000 views (ad revenue)

Starting a YouTube channel allows you to share singing tutorials, cover songs, or music reviews. With consistent content and audience engagement, you can monetize through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. Promote your channel across social media to grow your audience.

How to Start:

• Choose Your Niche: Decide whether you want to focus on singing tutorials, cover songs, or music reviews.
• Create Content Consistently: Start uploading high-quality videos regularly. Focus on content that resonates with your target audience.
• Optimize for SEO: Use keywords in your video titles, descriptions, and tags. Promote your videos on social media and engage with your audience in the comments.

5. Teaching Music in Schools

Income Range: $40,000 – $70,000 per year (full-time)

If you enjoy working with children or teens, becoming a music teacher in a school setting might be a perfect fit. This full-time career offers a steady income and the chance to inspire the next generation of musicians. Ensure you have the necessary certifications and apply for positions at local schools.

How to Start:

• Obtain Certifications: Check the certification requirements in your area and complete any necessary courses or exams.
• Gain Experience: Volunteer or work as a teaching assistant in music programs to build experience.
• Apply for Jobs: Search for openings at local schools, and be prepared to demonstrate your teaching skills during the interview process.

6. Online Courses

Income Range: $500 – $5,000+ per course (lifetime earnings)

Creating and selling online singing courses can provide a significant passive income stream. Choose platforms like Udemy or Teachable to host your course, and market it through your website and social media channels. A well-crafted course can earn income long after it’s published.

How to Start:

• Develop a Curriculum: Outline your course content and structure it into modules that are easy to follow.
• Choose a Platform: Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, or Skillshare are popular for hosting online courses.
• Market Your Course: Promote your course through your website, social media, and email marketing. Consider offering a discount for early sign-ups.

7. Live Streaming and Virtual Performances

Income Range: $50 – $200+ per stream (donations/tips)

Live streaming on platforms like Twitch or YouTube allows you to perform for a global audience. Engage with your viewers and monetize through donations, subscriptions, and tips. Regular streaming schedules can help you build a dedicated fan base.

How to Start:

• Set Up Your Gear: Invest in a good microphone, camera, and streaming software to ensure high-quality broadcasts.
• Choose a Platform: Twitch, YouTube, and Instagram Live are popular platforms for live streaming.
• Engage with Your Audience: Build a schedule for your streams and interact with your viewers to build a loyal following.

8. Voice Acting

Income Range: $50 – $500 per hour

Voice acting offers another avenue to use your singing skills, especially for commercials, video games, and audiobooks. Building a demo reel and joining platforms like Voices.com can help you break into this field.

How to Start:

• Take Voice Acting Classes: If you’re new to voice acting, consider taking classes to hone your skills.
• Create a Demo Reel: Record samples of your voice in different tones and styles.
• Join Voice Acting Platforms: Sign up on websites like Voices.com or Voice123 to find voice acting gigs.

9. Songwriting

Income Range: $0 – $100,000+ per song (royalties/commissions)

Songwriting can be incredibly lucrative, especially if your work is picked up by popular artists or used in media. Collaborate with other songwriters or pitch your songs to publishers to get started. A successful hit can generate substantial royalties.

How to Start:

• Collaborate with Other Musicians: Work with other songwriters, musicians, and producers to create songs.
• Pitch Your Songs: Submit your songs to music publishers or pitch them directly to artists looking for new material.
• Self-Publish: Consider self-publishing your songs on platforms like Songtradr, where they can be licensed for various uses.

10. Corporate Workshops

Income Range: $200 – $1,000 per workshop

Offer vocal workshops to businesses focusing on public speaking, communication, and confidence-building. Corporate workshops can be a lucrative side hustle or even a full-time endeavor, depending on demand and your expertise.

How to Start:

• Develop a Workshop: Create a workshop that focuses on vocal techniques, public speaking, or communication skills tailored for a corporate audience.
• Network with Businesses: Reach out to local businesses and offer your workshop as a team-building or professional development activity.
• Market Your Services: Use LinkedIn and other professional networks to promote your workshops.

11. Choir Directing

Income Range: $30,000 – $60,000 per year (full-time)

Directing a choir, whether in a community, church, or school setting, allows you to share your passion for singing while earning a stable income. Many choir directors combine this role with teaching or coaching, providing a well-rounded career in music.

How to Start:

• Gain Experience: Start by volunteering or assisting with local choirs to build experience.
• Apply for Positions: Look for openings at churches, schools, or community choirs and apply for directing roles.
• Start Your Own Choir: If opportunities are limited, consider starting your own community choir.

12. Musical Theatre

Income Range: $200 – $1,000+ per performance

Musical theatre offers opportunities to perform on stage in various productions. Whether in community theatre or professional settings, the income can vary widely. Audition regularly and build your resume through local productions.

How to Start:

• Attend Auditions: Regularly attend auditions for local theatre productions. Prepare a strong audition piece that showcases your vocal and acting skills.
• Build Your Resume: Participate in community theatre to build your experience and resume.
• Network: Connect with directors, casting agents, and other actors to learn about upcoming opportunities.

13. Selling Merchandise

Income Range: Varies widely based on sales volume

Creating and selling branded merchandise can complement your singing career, especially if you have a strong online presence. Profit margins depend on product costs and sales volume, with successful brands generating significant income.

How to Start:

• Design Products: Create designs that resonate with your audience, whether it’s T-shirts, mugs, or posters.
• Set Up an Online Store: Use platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or your website to sell your merchandise.
• Promote Your Products: Market your merchandise through social media, your YouTube channel, or during live performances.

14. Recording and Selling Music

Income Range: $0.003 – $0.005 per stream (Spotify)

Recording and selling your music on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music can provide a steady stream of income. While streaming pays relatively little per play, selling physical or digital albums can boost your earnings.

How to Start:

• Record Your Music: Invest in recording equipment or book studio time to produce high-quality tracks.
• Distribute Your Music: Use digital distribution platforms like DistroKid or CD Baby to get your music on streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music.
• Promote Your Music: Share your music through social media, music blogs, and live performances to increase your reach.

15. Freelance Music Critic or Blogger

Income Range: $50 – $500 per article/post

Writing about music, whether through reviews, blog posts, or articles, can be a rewarding way to combine your passion for singing with writing. Income depends on the publication and your experience, with regular contributors earning more.

How to Start:

• Start a Blog: Set up a blog where you can publish music reviews, articles, and other content related to singing.
• Pitch to Publications: Reach out to music magazines, websites, and blogs to pitch your articles.
• Build a Portfolio: Showcase your best work to attract more writing opportunities and higher-paying gigs.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to supplement your income with a side hustle or build a full-time career, there are countless ways to make money with your singing skills. From teaching and performing to creating online content and merchandise, the opportunities are vast. By exploring these options, you can find the path that best suits your talents and financial goals.