The coronavirus (COVID-19) has crippled most industries around the world, and music is one of them. Ever since the pandemic started to grow at an alarming rate, citizens were urged to stay inside their homes and avoid going out unless absolutely urgent.
SoundCloud and Twitch have decided to team up to offer a solution for musicians and help them in the financial aspect, especially now to the many canceled gigs and other events. There has already been a growing trend of live streaming, and SoundCloud and Twitch have decided to take it to the next level for musicians.
Coronavirus vs. the music industry
The music industry has started to feel the daunting results of the coronavirus as most musicians have experienced cancellations of gigs and other events. One of the most common ways for a musician to make money is to perform live and be paid for his performance, but now, with social distancing causing bars, restaurants, and other possible venues for live performances to close down, this is no longer possible.
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Artists and other celebrities have already started to live stream performances to reach audiences that are stuck at home. With the partnership of both companies, SoundCloud Pro, SoundCloud Premier, and Repost by SoundCloud creators will be able to get their Twitch Affiliate status fast-tracked. When these musicians gain an Affiliate status, they will be able to earn revenue by doing performances on Twitch!
"It's an unsettling time for everyone right now, and we know COVID-19 has been especially hard on musicians who were scheduled to play live shows over the next few months. Many creators are turning to live video streaming platforms to connect with their fans."
Here's how to earn through live streams.
Set up the account
Use your current SoundCloud Pro, SoundCloud Premier, and Repost Soundcloud to create an account. Once you have successfully created an account, it is necessary that you click this link to fill up a form for Twitch to fast-track your channel to Affiliate status. This will allow you to earn money right away.
Once in, visit your settings to customize your Twitch account, and do not forget to put your SoundCloud URL so current fans can follow you.
Check your tech
Having good tech improves the quality of your live stream, which is why good equipment is absolutely recommended. To be able to set up and customize your broadcast, use the Twitch Studio for PC or OBS for either PC or Mac. For further instructions, click this guide.
Connect with your fans
Since this is a live performance, your fans must participate in the performance. Twitch streams can create revenue, especially if you are interactive through chat. To increase revenue, do Q&A sessions, and other conversational performances by taking live requests or even freestyling!
Promote your gigs!
Last but not least, make sure to make the most of your Affiliate status by prompting fans to subscribe. Aside from the money you can make on Twitch, do not forget that you can get a sponsor and promote their material on your live stream as well!
