Thirty years ago, the notion that we could watch concerts in real-time by our favorite artists from the comfort of our homes would have seemed like something out of a science fiction story. Nowadays, however, musicians would be remiss if they didn’t take advantage of the possibilities presented by live streaming options.
Getting a Sense of the Field
But getting a leg up on today’s most engaging live streaming platforms isn’t always easy. There are undoubtedly several financial questions to consider before launching your first digital concert on a site like YouTube, Facebook Live, or Twitch.
So let’s break down a few of these issues into manageable steps!
Finding the Right Equipment
First, it is worth considering that owning or renting the right video and musical equipment can make the difference between an excellent live stream experience and a dud of a performance. Have you ever noticed that some YouTube or Twitch videos seem to look great? This is no coincidence: Many streamers invest funds into quality cameras and lighting rigs to make their videos really “pop” for their audiences.
Finding the Right Microphone
However, in musical terms, the microphone you’ll use to record your music is even more critical to your overall streaming experience. You don’t have to break the bank to get a quality mic in this day and age; however, skimping on microphone costs can leave your music sounding weak and harsh on your latest stream. That’s not a great way to connect with your listeners!
Finding the Right Platform
Of course, getting a sense of where to stream your music is just as important as considering what music you will stream. At present, musicians have a wide selection of platforms to use for live streaming. Although it was designed for gamers, Twitch has become increasingly popular with musicians over the last couple of years. Indeed, the site’s pleasing layout and functionality are perfect for musicians who want to convey a cutting-edge quality to their streams.
Of course, old standbys like YouTube also work well with live streaming technology. If you’re looking to gain a wider audience, it’s hard to beat YouTube’s complex algorithms and easy-to-use interface. It is little wonder that top recording artists like Radiohead often host live streams of concert videos on YouTube.
However, if you choose to broadcast your music, be sure to have fun. If you’re having a good time getting your music out to the world, your audience will be much more likely to have a good time. That is what sets successful musicians apart from the crowd!