HELP AN ARTIST IN 2025

Allen L. Johnston – The Music Specialist

www.asha.com

The music industry has evolved, but one thing remains the same: artists must take control of their careers. Over the years, I’ve attended countless music conferences, and a common frustration persists—many emerging artists still believe the system is rigged against them.

I’ve heard it all:

- “Labels won’t sign me because I’m too authentic.”

- “Radio ignores real talent—my music is fire!”

- “Streaming platforms bury independent artists.”

Yet, I **rarely** hear artists say:

- “My music isn’t commercially ready.”

- “I need to improve my marketing strategy.”

- “I should study the business before demanding a deal.”

The truth? The music industry is a business—not a charity. Labels, streaming services, and radio stations exist to make money, not to fulfill dreams. There will never be a *National Help an Artist Week*. If you want success, you must create it yourself.

THE REALITY OF MAJOR LABEL DEALS IN 2025

Many artists still chase major label deals, assuming they’ll get rich from record sales. But the math hasn’t changed:

- Artists earn 10-18% of retail sales** (if they’re lucky).

- Advances, marketing costs, tour expenses, and producer fees are recouped FIRST.

- After deductions, most artists end up in debt.

Example:

- You sell $1,000,000 worth of music.

- Your cut: $100,000–$180,000.

- Subtract:

- $50,000 (advance)

- $60,000 (promotion)

- $65,000 (tour costs)

- $30,000 (producer fees)

- $10,000 (manager)

- Plus hidden contract clauses…

- Result? You OWE money.

Meanwhile, new artists often spend big on image (jewelry, cars, designer clothes) before seeing real profits. It’s easy to be a broke “star.”

HOW TO MAKE REAL MONEY IN 2025

1. TOURING (STILL KING)

- A strong live show = consistent income.

- Small, efficient teams make more profit** than bloated entourages.

- Merchandise sales can outpace performance fees.

Pro Tip:

- Film every show. High-quality footage can be repurposed for promo, NFTs, or exclusive fan content.

2. MERCHANDISING (BEYOND T-SHIRTS)

- Limited-edition vinyl, NFTs, and digital collectibles sell well.

- Autographed items + instant photo ops = fan loyalty.

- Glow-in-the-dark, AR-enabled merch engages crowds.

Reality Check:

- Some nights, merch sales will be your biggest paycheck. Budget wisely.

3. DIGITAL CONTENT & DIRECT-TO-FAN SALES

- Short-form video (TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts) drives traffic.

- Exclusive content (behind-the-scenes, livestreams, unreleased tracks) sells on Patreon, Discord, or your own platform.

- AI-powered tools can help edit professional-grade videos cheaply.

Pro Tip:

- Own your audience. Build an email list and sell directly to fans—no middleman.

4. MICRO-ENDORSEMENTS & BRAND COLLABS

- Major endorsements require hits, but local deals are accessible.

- Partner with indie brands, studios, or tech startups** for mutual promotion.

- Offer value: Feature brands in your content, live shows, or social media.

Reality Check:

- Endorsements won’t make you rich, but they save money (free gear, studio time, exposure).

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FINAL WORD: STOP WAITING FOR HELP

The music industry rewards those who take action. Instead of blaming the system, adapt and dominate:

- Invest in your craft.

- Learn marketing & analytics.

- Build real fan connections.

- Diversify income streams.

2025 is yours—if you work like it.

Allen L. Johnston

The Music Specialist

www.asha.com