NYC Endorses 1 cts Per Stream instead of 0.003: A New Era for Musical Artists?

How NYC’s Resolution 368 Could Transform Streaming Royalties for Electronic Music Artists

After three decades in electronic music production, I’ve witnessed the industry’s evolution, particularly the seismic shift brought by streaming platforms. While these platforms have expanded music’s reach, they’ve also introduced challenges, especially concerning fair compensation for artists. A significant development addressing this issue is New York City’s recent endorsement of the Living Wage for Musicians Act through Resolution 368.

The Current Landscape of Streaming Royalties

Presently, artists earn approximately $0.0033 per stream on platforms like Spotify. To contextualize, an artist would need over 800,000 streams monthly to equate to a $15/hour full-time job. This model disproportionately affects independent musicians, many of whom rely heavily on streaming revenue. At Euterpa Studios, we’ve collaborated with numerous artists grappling with these financial constraints.

Introducing the Living Wage for Musicians Act

The Living Wage for Musicians Act, introduced in Congress by Representatives Rashida Tlaib and Jamaal Bowman, proposes a transformative approach: a minimum royalty of one cent per stream. This new royalty would be supplementary, ensuring artists receive this amount in addition to existing royalties from labels and distributors. The funds would be sourced from a 50% increase in streaming subscription fees and a 10% levy on non-subscription revenues, such as advertising. These funds would be directed to a non-profit entity responsible for distributing payments directly to artists, bypassing traditional intermediaries .

NYC’s Endorsement: Resolution 368

On May 28, 2025, the New York City Council unanimously passed Resolution 368, urging Congress to enact the Living Wage for Musicians Act. Council Member Shahana Hanif emphasized the importance of this resolution, highlighting that over 14,000 working musicians reside in NYC, many facing economic insecurity

Potential Impact on Electronic Music Artists

For electronic music artists, this act could be a game-changer. The proposed one-cent-per-stream royalty represents a substantial increase from current rates, potentially providing a more sustainable income. Moreover, the act includes a monthly cap of $10,000 per track (equivalent to one million streams), ensuring a

At Euterpa Studios, we believe this initiative could inspire a new wave of creativity, encouraging artists to produce music with the assurance of fair compensation.

Preparing for the Future

While the bill awaits Congressional approval, artists can take proactive steps to maximize their streaming potential. Ensuring tracks are professionally mixed and mastered can enhance their appeal, increasing the likelihood of playlist placements and shares. Our mixing and mastering services are designed to help artists achieve a polished sound that resonates with listeners.

In conclusion, the Living Wage for Musicians Act, bolstered by NYC’s Resolution 368, holds the promise of a more equitable streaming landscape. As we await legislative developments, staying informed and prepared is crucial. At Euterpa Studios, we’re committed to supporting artists through these transformative times, ensuring they have the resources and guidance to thrive in the evolving music industry.