How Streaming Generates Returns
Every stream generates value. Here's exactly how streaming activity becomes monthly earnings.
A Stream Is Recorded
Each time a listener plays a song you've invested in on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, or any other platform, the streaming activity is recorded.
Platforms Report Activity
Streaming platforms track every play. At month's end, they report the total streams for each song.
Royalties Are Calculated
Platforms pay royalties for qualified streams. Rates vary by platform, region, and subscription type - typically €0.002-€0.005 per stream. Platforms take approximately two months to verify and release these payments.
Note: we've kept this simple to explain the concept - behind the scenes, streaming platforms calculate royalties with far more precision.
Sonomo Distributes Earnings
Once platforms release payments, Sonomo distributes earnings to all shareholders based on ownership percentage. If you own 10%, you receive 10% of the royalties.
Earnings Hit Your Wallet
By the 15th of the month, approximately 2.5 months after streaming, your share of royalties is credited directly to your Sonomo wallet. Withdraw anytime to your bank account.
How You Get Paid
From streams to payouts - see exactly when and how you get paid, every month on the 15th.
Next Payout: Feb 15, 2026
For streams earned in November 2025
Hold shares at month-end to qualify for that month's streaming royalties
Songs vs. Baskets
Both earn royalties the same way - but diversification changes your risk profile.
Individual Song
Basket
One song's streaming revenue
Combined revenue from 10's-100's of songs
Your share % × song's monthly royalties
Your share % × basket's total monthly royalties
Higher: tied to one song's performance
Lower: diversification smooths fluctuations
Greater potential returns if a song breaks out, but concentrated risk in a single asset
Diversified exposure reduces impact of any single song
Generally less liquid. Wider bid-ask spreads.
Generally more liquid. Tighter bid-ask spreads.
Investors with high conviction in specific catalog assets
Investors seeking diversified, lower-volatility royalty income
Both options pay out on the same schedule - royalties are credited by the 15th of each month.
Each asset includes yield and risk metrics to help you compare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding your earnings, risks, and payouts
Ready to start earning from music royalties?
Join thousands of investors earning monthly royalties from music streaming.
Disclaimer: Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and any other streaming platforms mentioned on this page are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Sonomo is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Spotify AB, Apple Inc., Google LLC (YouTube), or any other streaming platform. All platform names, logos, and brand names are the property of their respective owners.