How to Make Money While Singing: A Comprehensive Guide
Singing is a passion for many, but did you know that it can also be a lucrative career or side hustle? Whether you’re an aspiring professional or just someone who loves to sing, there are numerous ways you can make money while doing what you love. In this blog, we'll explore some practical ways you can monetize your singing skills, especially in Glasgow, and how taking singing lessons in Glasgow can help you achieve success.
1. Start Offering Private Singing Lessons
One of the most straightforward ways to make money while singing is by teaching others. With the demand for vocal training on the rise, many people are eager to improve their singing skills. As a singer with experience, you can start offering singing lessons in Glasgow and share your knowledge with others.
If you’re unsure where to start, you can offer individual lessons, group sessions, or even online lessons. Personalizing lessons to meet each student’s needs will not only make you stand out but also help you charge premium rates.
At Southside Performance Studio, we offer individual singing classes where you can receive tailored training in vocal technique, performance, and much more. To learn more about our lessons, visit Individual Singing Class.
2. Perform at Gigs and Events
Another profitable way to make money while singing is by performing live at gigs, weddings, and events. Many venues in Glasgow are always on the lookout for talented singers to entertain their patrons. Whether it’s a local pub, a wedding reception, or a corporate event, there’s always an opportunity for a great performance.
As you build your reputation as a performer, you’ll be able to command higher rates and even negotiate contracts for regular performances. Start by networking with local event planners, venues, and even other musicians. Building a professional portfolio, which includes a demo reel or videos of your live performances, will help you gain attention and secure paying gigs.
3. Create and Sell Your Music
With the digital age in full swing, creating and selling your music has become more accessible than ever. You don’t need a record deal to get started—simply record your songs at home and distribute them on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp. Many independent artists are making money from streaming royalties, merchandise, and live performances.
In addition to recording original music, you can also sell covers of popular songs. As long as you have the right licensing agreements in place, covering well-known songs can be a lucrative avenue to explore.
4. Become a Session Singer
A session singer provides backing vocals for other artists’ recordings. If you have strong vocal skills and can quickly adapt to different styles, you can make money by working in the studio as a session singer. Many artists and producers seek session singers to provide vocals for songs, jingles, and advertisements.
To get started, it’s important to build a network with local producers, musicians, and music studios. Many session singers also work on a freelance basis, and you can find gigs through music job boards, online forums, or by reaching out to music industry professionals directly.
5. Monetize Your YouTube Channel
YouTube is one of the best platforms for singers to showcase their talents and make money. You can create covers of popular songs, original music videos, or even educational content about vocal techniques. With a growing subscriber base and consistent content, you can start earning money through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
In addition to monetizing through YouTube’s Partner Program, you can also leverage platforms like Patreon to get direct support from your fans. This allows you to build a community around your music and earn income from your content.
6. Participate in Singing Competitions
Singing competitions, like The Voice or X Factor, are great ways to gain exposure and potentially land lucrative contracts. While winning a competition can bring in fame and fortune, simply participating can also open doors to new opportunities. Many contestants get record deals, endorsement deals, and a chance to tour with big artists.
Even local competitions can be beneficial for building your portfolio and connecting with industry professionals. Keep an eye out for upcoming events in Glasgow and consider taking part to boost your career.
7. Offer Online Singing Lessons
With the world becoming more connected through technology, offering online singing lessons has never been easier. Whether you’re working with beginners or more advanced students, teaching singing online allows you to reach students worldwide, at any time that fits your schedule.
You can set up lessons on platforms like Zoom or Skype, making it possible to teach students from all over the world. If you’re already teaching in-person lessons, offering virtual sessions as an additional service is a great way to increase your income and expand your student base.
8. License Your Music for TV and Film
If you’re an original artist, another fantastic way to make money is by licensing your music to TV shows, films, and commercials. Music supervisors are always on the lookout for fresh songs to include in their productions, and by licensing your tracks, you can earn royalties each time your music is used.
One way to get started in music licensing is to reach out to music libraries, which serve as a hub for artists and producers to connect. There are also agencies that specialize in placing music in media projects, allowing you to earn passive income every time your music is used.
9. Start a Music Blog or Vlog
If you enjoy writing or creating video content, you can start a music blog or vlog. By sharing your experiences as a singer, offering advice, or reviewing music-related products, you can monetize your blog or vlog through affiliate marketing, ads, and sponsored content.
Writing a blog allows you to build an audience that appreciates your expertise. Whether you're discussing vocal techniques, performance tips, or music industry trends, there are endless ways to turn your passion for singing into a profitable online venture.
10. Create and Sell Vocal Warm-up Tracks
Vocal warm-up tracks are highly beneficial for singers to improve their range, flexibility, and tone. If you have a strong understanding of vocal technique, you can create and sell vocal warm-up tracks or even offer custom-made warm-ups for singers.
These can be sold on your website, through music platforms, or as part of your online singing lessons. Offering a unique product like this can help you stand out and attract a dedicated audience of singers looking to improve their vocal health.
Ready to Start Your Singing Journey?
Making money as a singer doesn’t happen overnight, but with dedication and creativity, there are many opportunities available. Whether you want to teach, perform, record, or write music, there’s a path for you.
If you're interested in enhancing your vocal skills and increasing your earning potential, why not start with singing lessons in Glasgow? At Southside Performance Studio, we offer professional individual singing classes that are tailored to help you develop your voice, performance skills, and more. To get started, visit Individual Singing Class.
With the right training and mindset, you can turn your love for singing into a rewarding career. So what are you waiting for? Start your singing lessons today and begin your journey to success!