SoundCloud Monetization (for Artists)
SoundCloud's monetization for artists (the path that absorbed the former SoundCloud Premier program) lets you get paid for the plays your tracks get on SoundCloud. Payout runs COULDNT_CONFIRM — application required, no follower minimum. Beginners typically earn COULDNT_CONFIRM, scaling to COULDNT_CONFIRM for top creators. Available worldwide (paid subscribers); fan-powered royalties paid on eligible streams.
Earnings
COULDNT_CONFIRM
Access
application
Availability
worldwide (paid subscribers); fan-powered royalties paid on eligible streams
Last verified
Jun 16, 2026
Overview
SoundCloud's monetization for artists (the path that absorbed the former SoundCloud Premier program) lets you get paid for the plays your tracks get on SoundCloud. It runs on fan-powered royalties — you earn based on your dedicated fans' actual listening habits rather than a giant pro-rata pool — and when you monetize directly on SoundCloud you keep 100% of your royalties. It's available to Next Plus and Next Pro (paid) subscribers, who set up and manage monetization themselves in the SoundCloud for Artists dashboard. Only original content you own all the rights to is eligible; covers, remixes, mashups, DJ sets, and podcasts are not. Tracks must be over 30 seconds and under 10 minutes. Best for artists with an engaged, returning fanbase that actually listens on SoundCloud.
💡 Insider tip
Fan-powered royalties reward listen depth, not just clicks, so promote your direct SoundCloud links to your most loyal fans. You'll need a paid Next Plus/Next Pro plan, and you must submit tracks for monetization yourself in the Artists dashboard — it isn't automatic. Keep tracks between 30 seconds and 10 minutes, make sure you own 100% of the rights, and keep documentation handy for any samples or royalty-free loops in case a track gets flagged for an audio match.
Earnings Breakdown
Payout Model
Fan-powered royalties — you get paid based on your dedicated fans' actual listening habits rather than a pro-rata pool. When you monetize directly on SoundCloud you keep 100% of your royalties, so the more fans that listen, the more you earn. Available to SoundCloud Next Plus / Next Pro (paid) subscribers; you set up and manage monetization yourself in the SoundCloud for Artists dashboard.
Requirements
Common reasons for rejection
Program at a Glance
Ready to join?
Go directly to the official SoundCloud Monetization (for Artists) application page.
Apply to SoundCloud Monetization (for Artists) →Opens official application page
Ready to start earning?
Apply to SoundCloud Monetization (for Artists) or explore other verified creator programs.