10 Essential Tips For Independent Musicians In South Africa

Navigating the music industry as an independent artist in South Africa demands not just talent, but also a strategic mindset. 

This article serves as a roadmap, tailored for aspiring musicians, giving them tips that can elevate their careers and financial standing. 

From organisational tactics to innovative income streams, I explore crucial elements to empower South African independent musicians to thrive in a complex and competitive landscape.

1. Organise your documentation

Start by registering with crucial music organisations like SAMRO, Capasso and SAMPRA which manage various royalties on your behalf for the music you release. 

2. Embrace a 9 to 5 job

It might surprise you, but many musicians maintain regular jobs. Some musicians work at music-focused companies like record labels, music streaming companies and TV or radio stations while others work in other industries outside of music. 

There's no stigma attached to holding down a 9 to 5 anymore. Having a job can alleviate personal stress linked to relying solely on music income, preventing impulsive decisions made out of desperation. 

3. Establish a reliable team

Every musician requires a dependable team, including a manager, graphic designer, photographer, videographer and marketing professional. While some roles can be handled by the musician, delegating to skilled individuals can prove more advantageous.  

4. Sell merchandise 

Depending solely on streaming income isn’t optimal, especially for emerging or independent musicians with limited budgets. Selling merchandise, such as t-shirts, caps, hoodies, cups and phone covers can generate significant income. 

5. Offer services to peers

Leverage skills acquired over-time like music recording, beat production, graphic design or administrative work to provide services to other musicians thus creating an additional income stream. 

6. Pursue sync opportunities

Ever wondered how music finds its way into movies or adverts? That is called sync placements. These deals involve agreements between musicians or their publishers and companies to feature the music in promotions or specific media. Rates for such usage can be substantial, and building relationships within advertising and TV production can help secure deals even without a music publisher. 

7. Seek arts funding

Numerous annual funding opportunities are tailored for musicians, providing valuable support without repayment obligations. Funds like the SAMRO Music Creation Fund and the SAMPRA Development Fund can significantly aid in music creation. 

8. Host events

Organising events is becoming an increasingly lucrative revenue stream for musicians. Implementing strategic marketing, ensuring high-quality production and crafting memorable experiences can foster repeat attendance and financial success. 

9. Secure brand collaborations

Independent musicians are progressively engaging with brands as influencers. This involves creatively incorporating brands into content, providing visibility to brands among the musician’s audience in exchange for compensation. 

10. Prioritise making exceptional music

None of these strategies matter if your music fails to resonate with your audience; quality always takes precedence

Robin Thirdfloor is a musician and creative entrepreneur with years of experience in the music industry. He currently occupies a seat as a voting member at The Recording Academy (GRAMMYs). 

Instagram: @robinrapsgood

Website: robinthirdfloor.com