Apple Music pays artists more per stream than Spotify

Apple Music told artists it pays a penny per stream in a letter reviewed by The Wall Street Journal. Apple’s penny-per-stream payment structure—which music-industry experts say can dip lower—is roughly double what Spotify, the world’s largest music-streaming service, pays music-rights holders per stream. 

The Wall Street Journal says Spotify pays an average of about one-third to one-half penny per stream; however, its larger user base generates many more streams. Apple’s payments come out of monthly subscription revenue from users.

In June 2019 Apple said it had more than 60 million Music subscribers. Spotify has 155 million paid subscribers — and 355 total when you figure in those who listen to the ad-supported version.  Apple Music doesn’t offer a free, ad-supported option.

Its subscription fees are: US$9.99/month or $99/year for a single license; $14.99/month for a license; and $4.99/month for a student license. You can also obtain it via the Apple One package that also includes Apple News+, Apple Arcade, Apple TV+, Fitness+, and iCloud storage options.