What It Really Costs to Make Independent Music
People often see the finished song — the three minutes on Spotify, the music video, the concert moment on stage. What is less visible is everything that happens before that moment exists.
Independent music is built on passion, time, and a surprising number of small and big investments.
Because I record, write and produce a lot of my music myself, many people assume it doesn’t cost very much. The truth is: every release still involves a whole ecosystem of tools, people and work that makes the music possible.
Here is a little glimpse behind the curtain.
Studio & Recording Equipment
Microphones, audio interfaces, cables, instruments, headphones and acoustic treatment are the foundation of every recording. Good equipment lasts a long time, but it still needs maintenance and upgrades.
Estimated cost per year: CHF 1’000 – 3’000
Software & Production Tools
Music production relies on digital tools: recording software, plugins for mixing, tuning, mastering, virtual instruments and sound libraries.
Estimated cost per year: CHF 300 – 1’200
Mixing & Mastering
Even though I can mix and tune music myself, sometimes a second pair of professional ears is important to give a song the final polish.
Estimated cost per song: CHF 200 – 800
Artwork & Visuals
Cover art, photography, videos and visual content help a song find its identity and reach people.
Estimated cost per release: CHF 200 – 1’000
Distribution & Promotion
Uploading music to streaming platforms, promoting releases, creating content and reaching listeners also comes with costs.
Estimated cost per release: CHF 50 – 300
And then there is time.
Writing songs, recording, editing, mixing, rehearsing, planning releases and performing live easily adds up to hundreds of hours each year.
I do this because I love it. Music has been my life for many years, from touring stages to working in the studio. But independent music only survives because people who listen decide that it matters.
If my music has ever meant something to you — if a song accompanied you on a drive, helped you through a moment, or simply made your day a little brighter — you can support my work.
You can buy me a coffee (or help fund the next song) here:
👉 Support my music on Ko-fi
Every bit of support goes directly into creating new music, recordings and future releases.
Thank you for listening and being part of this journey.
— Mary
