We live in a world where music is just a tap away. Streaming has made it easier than ever for listeners to discover and engage with your songs—and I’m grateful that God uses that technology to deliver messages of truth and hope right where people need them.
But here’s something we can’t afford to overlook: Purchasing music—especially on iTunes and Amazon—still makes a huge difference.
Streaming vs. Purchasing: What’s the Real Impact?
Every time someone streams your music on Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube, it helps spread your message and expand your reach. Streams are valuable. But financially, each stream generates only a fraction of a cent.
By comparison, a single $1.29 download is worth the same as hundreds—sometimes thousands—of streams. That’s not hyperbole. For independent Christian artists like you, purchases can significantly impact your ability to:
Fund new studio recordings
Pay producers, mixers, and engineers
Create visuals (cover art, lyric videos, music videos)
Support touring and outreach efforts
Invest in future ministry opportunities
It’s About More Than Money—It’s About Mission
When your fans choose to buy your music, they’re not just acquiring a song. They’re investing in your mission. They’re supporting the message of Christ through art and equipping you to keep creating.
But here’s the thing: most fans aren’t thinking about it this way. They’re conditioned to stream. And unless we ask them to go deeper, they won’t.
That’s where you come in.
What You Can Do as an Artist
You have influence. When you release new music, ask your audience directly to purchase and pre-order. Tell them how much it helps. Tell them what it funds. Help them understand the power behind that $1.29 download.
Feel free to use language like this in your socials, emails, or live shows:
“If this song has encouraged your faith, please consider pre-ordering or purchasing it on iTunes or Amazon. It makes a real impact and helps me keep doing what God’s called me to do.”
Make sure that we have iTunes and Amazon purchase links on your shortlink. This might not be default and we might need to manually check and add. This strategy also works best for EPs and Albums. It’s harder for single pre-release strategy.
And yes—continue offering pre-save/listen now links for streaming platforms. But give your biggest supporters a way to step up and sow into your calling.
Let’s Make Every Release Count
First-week purchases and pre-orders carry major weight. They affect visibility on charts, discoverability by new fans, and momentum with media outlets. It’s one of the best ways to launch your music into more hearts and homes.
We’re behind you. We believe in the message God has given you. And we’re here to help you grow both your platform and your purpose.
