On average, SoundCloud pays between $2 and $4 per 1,000 plays. For 10,000 plays, this translates to:
- Estimated Earnings: $20 to $40
2. Factors That Impact Your Earnings
a. Listener Type
- Subscribers: Plays from SoundCloud Go+ subscribers generate more revenue than plays from free users.
- Ad-Supported Listeners: Plays from free users generate income through ad revenue, which tends to be lower than subscription-based plays.
b. Geographic Location
- Countries with higher ad rates (e.g., the US, UK, and Germany) generate more revenue per play compared to countries with lower ad spending.
c. Engagement Level
- Fan-Powered Royalties distribute earnings based on how much time fans spend listening to your music relative to other artists. More engaged fans mean higher payouts.
3. How Fan-Powered Royalties Work
SoundCloud’s royalty model differs from traditional streaming platforms by tying payouts directly to fan engagement.
- If a listener spends most of their time on your tracks, a larger share of their subscription or ad revenue goes to you.
- This system benefits indie artists with loyal, active listeners over those relying on high play counts with low engagement.
4. How to Maximize Your Earnings on SoundCloud
a. Build a Loyal Fanbase
- Focus on engaging fans who listen to your music repeatedly.
b. Increase Plays in High-Paying Regions
- Target listeners in countries with high advertising rates by promoting your music strategically.
c. Encourage SoundCloud Go+ Subscriptions
- The more of your listeners use the paid tier, the higher your payouts will be.
d. Participate in Monetization Programs
- Ensure you’re eligible for SoundCloud’s Premier Program to start earning from your plays.
5. Comparison to Other Platforms
While SoundCloud’s payout for 10K plays is modest compared to Spotify ($30–$50) or Apple Music ($60–$90), its Fan-Powered Royalties system offers greater earning potential for independent artists with dedicated fans.
Final Thoughts
For 10,000 plays on SoundCloud, you can expect to earn between $20 and $40, depending on factors like listener type, location, and engagement. While the payout may not seem high, SoundCloud’s fair distribution model and global reach make it a valuable platform for indie artists aiming to grow their careers and revenue.
The Supreme Team is an Austin, Texas promotion agency started by Indie Artists for Indie Artists. Our Organic SoundCloud Promotion and Organic Spotify Promotion is provided through a network of influencers and artists in the United Kingdom, USA, Australia, Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Sweden, Netherlands, Switzerland, Brazil, and more.
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