Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always make the stage or the spotlight: side jobs. Yep, we’re diving into the world of musician side gigs and why they’re more common than you might think. If you’ve ever wondered if you’re the only one balancing a non-music income stream along with your creative career, rest assured – you’re not alone.
Whether it’s teaching, freelancing, or a completely different job outside music, a ton of artists have extra sources of income, and it’s actually helping them thrive. Let’s get into the “how” and “why” of it all, and take a look at just how many musicians are rocking both a main hustle and a side hustle.
The Reality: Most Musicians Have Another Income Stream
Did you know that a huge percentage of musicians – in fact, nearly 75% according to recent surveys – have some kind of non-music-related work to support themselves? This stat shows that even as music remains a huge part of their lives, musicians are finding ways to make ends meet in other areas. And it’s not just newcomers to the industry; established artists and long-time performers often work part-time or freelance jobs in between gigs and recording sessions.
Why? Because music careers, especially today, are as unpredictable as they are rewarding. One month, you might be booked solid, and the next, things could slow down. The steady cash flow from another job keeps things rolling smoothly.
Why Musicians Choose to Diversify Their Income
There are a few big reasons musicians are branching out beyond the stage, the studio, and the rehearsal room.
1. Financial Security (and Less Stress!)
We all know that financial stress can zap creativity fast. Having another stream of income can reduce financial pressure, which leaves more mental space to create and experiment without the nagging worry of the next paycheck. That’s a big deal when you’re in an industry that’s notoriously inconsistent.
2. Creative Freedom
For many musicians, a stable income allows them to take risks in their music. When you don’t have to rely solely on album sales, gigs, or merch to cover the essentials, you’re freer to create the music you actually want to make – even if it’s niche or experimental. With financial pressure off, you can focus on the art.
3. Networking and Skill-Building
Some musicians choose side gigs that actually complement their music careers. Think teaching, freelancing in a related field, or working on a project that adds to their skill set. For instance, teaching guitar not only pays the bills, but it also helps hone your own skills. Or maybe you freelance as a sound engineer, expanding your knowledge of production while earning a living.
How Musicians Are Earning Extra Income
So, what kinds of jobs are musicians doing on the side? Let’s break it down:
Teaching – Music lessons, workshops, and online classes are popular. Teaching not only brings in extra cash, but it’s also a great way to share knowledge and connect with new musicians.
Freelance Gigs – Many musicians freelance in creative fields like graphic design, web development, writing, or social media management. These skills are also great for managing your own band’s marketing, websites, and album covers.
Service Industry – The classic musician side job. Flexible hours in restaurants, cafes, or retail can fit well around rehearsals and gigs.
Remote or Online Jobs – Remote work has opened doors for musicians who need flexibility. From content creation to data entry, the online job market has something for everyone.
Health and Wellness – Some musicians are tapping into yoga instruction, fitness training, or other wellness-related fields that keep them balanced while earning a living.
Balancing a Side Job with Your Music Career
Having a side gig doesn’t mean you’re any less committed to your music – it’s actually a smart move. But, as with everything, balance is key. The side job should support your music, not overshadow it. Here are a few tips for balancing both worlds:
Choose a Flexible Job – Flexibility is golden. Jobs that offer flexible hours or remote work are ideal for musicians who need to adjust for rehearsals, gigs, or last-minute opportunities.
Set Clear Boundaries – It can be easy for a side gig to start eating into music time. Setting boundaries is key; make sure you’re not putting more into the side gig than you intended.
Pick Something You Enjoy – If you can find a side gig that actually interests you, it’ll feel a lot less like “work” and more like a cool part of your life. Plus, an enjoyable side gig keeps burnout at bay.
Leverage Your Side Job – If you’re working in a related field, see if you can bring those skills back to your music career. Graphic design? Make your own merch. Social media? Boost your band’s presence. Everything can be a stepping stone.
So, Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. The extra income doesn’t just keep the lights on – it keeps the creative wheels turning. Musicians with a side gig can make decisions that aren’t tied to immediate financial gain, letting them focus on making music that feels authentic and sustainable. And when you don’t have to take every gig that comes your way, you can start choosing the opportunities that truly excite you.
Having a second income isn’t a compromise; it’s a power move. It’s a way to stay balanced, keep creating, and maybe even enjoy the journey a little more. So, next time you’re feeling the pressure to juggle both worlds, remember: you’re part of a community of smart, resilient artists making it work their own way.
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