What Artists Need to Know About Challenges in the Music Industry

If you’re an artist trying to make it in today’s music world, you might feel like you’re hustling hard but still not seeing the results you deserve. And let’s be real—it’s not just about the grind; the industry is full of hidden obstacles. If you don’t know what they are, you can’t tackle them head-on. So, before you burn out or get stuck, let’s break down the real challenges artists face in 2024, and why understanding them is crucial to your success.

Financial Challenges: Streaming Won’t Pay the Bills

You’ve probably heard that streaming platforms are the future, right? Well, the truth is, unless you’re a mega-star, streaming might not even cover your monthly grocery bill. Artists earn a fraction of a cent per stream, and with millions of other tracks out there, getting noticed is tough enough, let alone making enough money to survive.

• Low Streaming Revenue: Most artists only get a few dollars from thousands of streams.
• Delayed Payments: Even if you do get some income from streaming, don’t expect it right away. Royalties are often delayed for months, leaving you in the dark about when you’ll see any cash.
• Financial Instability: A lot of artists juggle multiple jobs just to stay afloat. With unreliable income from music, finding time for creativity becomes harder and harder.

Oversaturation: How Do You Break Through the Noise?

The music industry has never been more crowded. Platforms like Spotify, SoundCloud, and YouTube have made it easy for anyone to upload music, but that also means it’s harder than ever to stand out.

• Saturated Market: There are millions of artists on streaming platforms, and it’s hard to break through. Ever wondered why some tracks go viral while others fall flat? Read Why Repetition is Your Best Friend to understand how persistence can play in your favour.
• Playlist Politics: Getting onto key playlists is crucial to gaining streams and visibility. But unless you’ve got industry connections, it’s like fighting for a spot on a packed subway train during rush hour. Building your network can change that.

The Double-Edged Sword of Technology

Technology can be your biggest ally—or your worst enemy. From AI-generated music to piracy, the internet is a chaotic space for artists, and if you’re not careful, your hard work could be swiped or overshadowed.

• AI and Digital Piracy: While AI has the potential to help musicians create, it also poses a threat to originality. AI-generated tracks are making waves, and piracy remains rampant. Keep your music safe by staying ahead of these trends.
• Content Overload: Every artist is expected to be a full-blown content creator these days. You need to churn out TikToks, Instagram stories, and livestreams, all while making music. But if you’re not balancing this, you’ll burn out fast. For examples on how to feed two birds with one scone where repurposing press for content is concerned, check out our guide on Repurposing Your Press Coverage.

Industry Knowledge: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle

You’ve got the talent, but do you know how the industry works? Understanding contracts, royalties, copyright laws, and tax obligations is not something most artists are prepared for when they start out. Not knowing this stuff can lead to major setbacks.

• Contracts and Royalties: Missteps here can cost you big time. Educate yourself on the basics to avoid getting ripped off. But more importantly, it’s about this next point below:
• Navigating the Industry: Let’s get real—if you don’t know your way around the industry, you’re gonna have a hard time making it. Contracts, royalties, sync licensing—it’s a maze, and going in blind could leave you spinning your wheels. Whether you’re just getting started or need a refresher, knowing your rights, royalties, and how to leverage your work is key to staying afloat. And guess what? There’s no need to shell out cash for that kind of knowledge. Ari Herstand’s blog, Ari’s Take, is packed with legit, free guides on the essential things every artist needs to know.

Mental Health: The Invisible Struggle

In the race to “make it,” a lot of artists forget to take care of themselves. Touring, creating, and maintaining a public persona can take a serious toll on your mental health.

• Burnout and Stress: The pressure to constantly produce can lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression. It’s important to recognize when you need a break. Balancing the hustle with self-care is crucial for long-term success.
• Sense of Self: I mean, this is truly something that people do not talk about, but this is crucial, and something that’s finally entered the conversation in the mainstream thanks in part to artists like Chappell Roan. She spells it out in this interview on CBC show Q with Tom Power, saying pretty clearly that in this industry, “You can really flourish if you don’t protect yourself.” (check out the full clip below) This shouldn’t be glossed over: it can be easy to feel like you’re losing your sense of autonomy and feel like you need to share more of yourself than you ought to when it comes to pursuing a career in music. For advice on how to create some healthy distance for yourself, check out our article On Persona: The Three Faces We Wear.

What Can You Do About It?

Navigating music industry challenges as an artist isn’t easy, but you’re not alone. By being aware of these roadblocks, you can start to take control of your career. The key is to stay informed, network with other artists and industry professionals, and use every resource available to you.

• Leverage Data: Use the analytics provided by streaming platforms to better understand your audience and tailor your promotions accordingly.
• Network Like a Pro: Collaborate with other artists, attend industry events, and build connections with media outlets to boost your visibility. Start learning how to leverage industry contacts with our article on Mastering Music Industry Networking and how genuine connections can boost your career.

For more tips on how to tackle these industry challenges head-on, subscribe to Vibrant Revolt. We’re here to arm you with no-BS advice to help you thrive in today’s cutthroat music industry.