SoundCloud Enables Artists to Monetise Content with Ads

soundcloudAudio-sharing platform SoundCloud is introducing the ability for artists to monetise their content with ads as it launches a new program for its content creators.

The program, called On Soundcloud, gives content creators the choice of three tiers – Partner, Pro and Premier. With Partner, users can post music and access basic statistics for free. With Pro, users pay to access more upload time, advanced tools and more detailed stats.

The new Premier level, currently available only in the US and by invitation-only, provides comprehensive stats, account management support and enables artists to share in ad revenues, montising their content.

“As artists ourselves, Eric and I started SoundCloud with a simple vision,” said Alex Ljung, founder and CEO of SoundCloud, in a blogpost announcing the new platform. “We wanted to develop tools for creators, help them reach fans all over the world, and shape a way we could pay the creators who fuel the growth of SoundCloud.

“When someone sees or hears an ad, theyre supporting an artist. We will include ads gradually and bring on more advertisers as we grow On SoundCloud. Everyone at SoundCloud is really excited about bringing this creator program to you.”

The introduction of ads to SoundCloud may deter some listeners, but is common practice among music streaming services now, so is unlikely to have a significant impact on SoundClouds reach or engagement with consumers.