Making music with your band is the dream, but it’s not always the thing that pays the bills. Many musicians pick up side hustles to support their craft — but the wrong side job can eat into your creative energy, rehearsal time, or even cause conflicts with band priorities.
The good news is, there are plenty of music-related side hustles that not only bring in extra income, but also strengthen your skills and connections without pulling you away from your band.
Teaching Music Lessons
Whether in person or online, teaching is one of the most flexible ways to earn money as a musician. You can set your own schedule, sharpen your own skills in the process, and even inspire the next generation of players.
Session Work
Offering your talents for recording sessions — either in studios or remotely — lets you earn income while collaborating with other artists. It also helps you grow as a musician by learning to adapt to different styles.
Songwriting and Licensing
If you write, consider pitching your songs for TV, film, commercials, or independent artists. Licensing music is a growing market, and once a track is placed, it can generate income long after you’ve finished writing it.
Teaching Online Courses or Tutorials
Platforms like YouTube, Udemy, or Patreon allow you to create instructional content that works for you on your schedule. This can eventually become a source of passive income.
Live Sound and Tech Work
If you’re comfortable with gear, you can pick up work running live sound for venues, doing basic studio engineering, or even helping other bands with their setups. It pays, builds connections, and keeps you close to the scene.
Merch and Design
If you have visual skills, design logos, posters, or merch — for your band and others. It’s another way to stay creative, and it pairs perfectly with promoting your own music.
The Bottom Line
The best side hustles for musicians are the ones that support your main focus rather than pulling you away from it. Whether it’s teaching, recording, or creating content, choose opportunities that build your skills, strengthen your network, and keep you connected to the music world — all while giving your band the time and energy it deserves.
