Artists and songwriters might still be earning through streaming services, but in terms of live music – for many, the source of the majority of their income – things are grinding to a halt.
Global attempts to tackle the spread of Coronavirus have seen live performances to sizeable audiences temporarily banned in the likes of the US, UK and Germany, to name a few. That’s not to mention uncertainty surrounding other income sources as people are told to ‘social distance’ away from offices, bars, restaurants and concert venues.
In order to assist its community worldwide amid this uncertain time, SoundCloud has laid on a number of benefits for its creators – the most pressing of which is a 50% discount on a subscription to SoundCloud Pro Unlimited.
That’s the top tier of SoundCloud subscriptions, which allows users unlimited uploads of audio, in addition to tools such as lossless HD storage, a full range of analytics and access to SoundCloud Premier (if eligible) which, in turn, enables them to distribute their music to multiple other services.
The 50% discount will be available through Monday, March 30, and applies to both monthly and annual subscriptions.
SoundCloud is also launching other initiatives to help its creators during the COVID-19 outbreak. They include a new partnership with Twitch to fast-track SoundCloud Pro, SoundCloud Premier and Repost creators directly to Twitch Affiliate status.
This will allow these creators to start earning money from their Twitch streams, when they connect via livestream to fans.
“We are all facing an unprecedented situation. For those of you earning your living through music, and facing canceled shows or other lost income, the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) is especially hard-hitting.”
Kerry Trainor, SoundCloud (pictured)
In addition, SoundCloud has launched a “Keep the Music Going Guide” online which acts as a “source for daily updates on the best resources to support your career and maintain your well-being from across the web”.
Plus, next week, SoundCloud’s team will offer hour-long bursts of real-time advice to creators via online discussions, AMAs and workshops, with more details to follow here.
SoundCloud CEO Kerry Trainor (pictured) said: “Our team is humbled every day by the creativity and trust you share with SoundCloud, and we hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy.
“We are all facing an unprecedented situation. For those of you earning your living through music, and facing canceled shows or other lost income, the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) is especially hard-hitting.”
He added that SoundCloud is launching the initiatives to “support our global creator community”.
At last count, SoundCloud hosted over 200 million tracks from 25 million creators.Music Business Worldwide
