In a bid to further support independent musicians, SoundCloud has announced the launch of a new budget-friendly plan designed specifically for artists. This initiative is aimed at fostering creativity and providing a platform for emerging talents who may be struggling with financial constraints. The plan, simply dubbed “Artist,” is priced at just $39 per year, making it accessible to a wider range of musicians looking to expand their reach without breaking the bank.
Previously known as the Next Pro plan, SoundCloud has rebranded this offering to “Artist Pro,” which will be available at $99 per year. This tier provides members with benefits such as unlimited track uploads, enhanced track amplification, and advanced monetization options. While the new Artist plan offers only basic features and initial limits on certain aspects, it still provides significant advantages for those who are just starting their careers in the music industry. Both plans cater to different needs, allowing users to select the level of service that best fits their current stage in their artistic journey.
The Artist plan places several attractive features at the fingers of emerging artists. For instance, subscribers can upload three hours of music, maintaining the same allowance as that of the free tier. However, unlike the free plan, the new model promises artists the chance to amplify their tracks. This means that songs can reach beyond the typical 100 listeners, thereby increasing visibility and potential fan engagement. Moreover, users can distribute and monetize their tracks across various popular platforms, such as Apple Music, Spotify, TikTok, and YouTube, a feature that empowers artists to earn royalties from all plays.
Importantly, those opting for the Artist plan also have the flexibility to replace their tracks monthly without compromising their statistics—such as plays and likes—an essential function for artists who may want to refine their work continuously. This capability, paired with the inclusion of monthly mastering credits for one track using SoundCloud’s AI tools, positions the plan as an appealing entry-level option for budding musicians.
Impact on the Music Landscape
This expansion in pricing and features from SoundCloud is indicative of a larger trend in the music industry, where digital streaming platforms are placing increased emphasis on artist development and accessibility. With services tailored for artists at various levels, SoundCloud aims to level the playing field and democratize the music production space. Comments made by SoundCloud CEO Eliah Seton emphasize their commitment to this mission: ensuring that financial barriers do not deter promising musicians from gaining exposure and building a fan base.
By introducing the Artist plan and rebranding the Artist Pro plan, SoundCloud not only improves its offerings for independent music creators but also seeks to encourage a more inclusive environment for artistic expression. This strategic move positions SoundCloud as a premier platform for aspiring musicians who are looking for professional-level tools at an affordable price, cementing its reputation as a champion for emerging talent in the bustling world of digital music streaming.