The Royalty Myth: Why Your Streams Aren’t Paying What You Think

Let’s talk about something a lot of artists don’t find out until it’s too late… streams don’t pay the way you think they do. It feels good to see the numbers climbing on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube. But when you check your payout, reality hits quick: all those plays barely cover a meal, let alone your career.

The Penny Problem

Here’s the truth. Streaming platforms pay fractions of a penny per play. That means you can rack up thousands, even tens of thousands of streams, and still not see more than pocket change. If you’re banking on streams to fund your music, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.

The Illusion of Success

Big numbers look impressive on your profile. Ten thousand streams sounds like momentum, but when the payout comes in, it might not even cover one studio session. Don’t confuse visibility with sustainability. Just because people are listening doesn’t mean the checks are adding up.

Where the Real Money Is

The artists who make this work know streams are just one piece of the puzzle. The real money comes from merch, live shows, fan support, licensing, and brand partnerships. Streams can give you exposure, but exposure only matters if you turn it into opportunities that actually pay.

Streams Still Matter… But Not Like You Think

I’m not saying ignore streaming platforms. They build credibility and help new fans discover you. But don’t make them your main source of income. Think of streams as a business card, not a paycheck. The question isn’t just how many plays you get, it’s what you do with the attention they bring.

Think of streams as a business card, not a paycheck.

At the end of the day, the royalty checks aren’t the prize. They’re just one small piece of the game. Don’t get caught up in the myth. Focus on building the areas of your career that really pay, and use your streams as fuel to get there.

This article is brought to you by Sanctified Sound