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Thanks for the video. I have a small channel and haven't given it any attention in about 3 years. I also didn't focus that content very well it's kind of scattered. I've been teaching guitar part-time and working a full-time 40-hour job for probably 5 or 6 years now, along with being in a couple of different bands. I spend probably 8-10 hours per week with a guitar in my hands on average. But I often feel like I do not get rewarded enough financially to balance out the effort and time I put into the instrument. What I've been thinking lately, although many times I needed that money from teaching guitar, what if I had spent that 8 hours or so per week making videos for the channel, learning to get better looking shots, learning better editing, learning to get better audio, all the while going from 20 or so videos on that channel up to as many as 40 or more videos added per year. Building a catalog as you put it, I believe. Trading time for money, vs trading time for an investment. I feel like if I had made that leap 3 years ago, I would have a pretty solid income stream already right now. Maybe.... 150 vidoes on he channel. It's good to see things like this to know that yes, if you put the effort, there can indeed be a reward in the end. RUclips is good at connecting people with the audience. I've been watching your videos for a few years and only just realized I wasn't subscribed this morning. You come up in my feed right alongside my subscriptions any way typically. Anyway, thanks for the video. Thank you for the food for thought.
Your point about RUclips calculating out shares with fair use stuff is an excellent point, and harkens back to a ton of discussion that people left on the table when Napster was the villain - labels are still struggling to keep up. (Thus ongoing battles like... Spotify.) For someone like me in the U.S., the idea that you present would be one to hammer BMI and ASCAP about. They are the closest thing that the music industry has to a real union and cohesive group. But you'd still have to get A-listers like Mayer or Swift on board. Just notice how it took decades of complaining and, finally, Taylor Swift to get movement on Ticketmaster. I'd plea your case about demonetization with whichever royalty groups you're a member of. They're all full of old blood and old ideas, there's somebody that would like to sound like they've cracked the mystery code. I don't know which videos you get the most views on, but your behind the biz ones are really my favorite.
@@joeallisonmachine I DONT CONDONE THEFT OF COPYRIGHT MATERIAL PERIOD ITS JUST SAD REAL ARTISTS CANT MAKE MONEY BECAUSE PEOPLE STEAL SHIT I PAY FOR MY STREAMING SERVICES
I try to thank those content creators that I enjoy. I don't think I would be your target demographic...a truck driver from Oklahoma, USA, but I enjoy your music and appreciate the hard work that goes in to that process. Keep creating!!!
Agreed, stuck-in-his-ways classical music nerd here, but this explanation was fascinating and valuable; thank you very much and best wishes to Ms Spender!
Well done! I do the same! back before these platform if you were interest in whatever (finance, sports, music, whatever, you would have to pay for the product! it is fair we support them now too!!
As an old guy who loves music (yes especially that from the late 1960's and early 1970's), it would be nice to see more musicians have more control over their music and the distribution of it. What you are doing helps that cause. Keep it up!!
It amazes me how, despite more open access, artists are doing worse today than 2 decades ago. Rather than democratize music, the Internet has allowed the industry to consolidate power.
@@c1ph3rpunk My reply is soley based on hope. My knowledge of the industry is very minimal. I am desiring a return to the time when musicians had some control of the music.
@@c1ph3rpunk A mere few decades ago, somebody like Ani DiFranco could figure out how to run her own publishing and record label, and put out 20 albums… Nowadays, she looks at the situation and has no idea how to innovate with that same spirit. I regret that buying physical media for music has become so archaic. There was some honour and some commitment in that. Now you have Spotify taking away a big chunk of artists’ livelihood. I don’t like.
And we had all the great artwork on and in the albums, plus sometimes artist info, who was playing what instrument on the songs, and the song lyrics, etc. Kids today don’t know what they’re missing. They’ve been programmed and hypnotized to crave Beats. How sad. Where’s the melodies? Great chords and vocal harmonies? A lot of rubbish being pushed as music today. Haha What a sad joke. “I started a joke… that got the whole world crying.” - RIP Robin GIbbs
Hi Mark.... totally agree with you. I am an older musician who got back into music in 2017 in the last 5 yrs I have released 3 albums. 2 are on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon music, iTunes, Bandcamp and RUclips. I also get 100 ( wishful thinking) CDs done. I even got a music video which is on RUclips. Back in the day selling the CDs would help me go back into the studio and produce more music...... now it’s a joke. These streams pay next to nowt! Good job I have my pension. 👍😊
“Not suggesting to quit live music to make videos” Well, if you make a video while playing live music, you can get two pigeons with one stone! 😉 I love your channel because you publish such good music and give us a first row seat on the backstage and background of your creative process in such a natural way it seems to me to know you since forever.😊
This is likely the best and most transparent video regarding creator compensation I've seen in quite a bit. I'm brand new to this channel (borrowing my first guitar right now, which was how I found you) but I have to say, this is really great. Best to you and yours.
@@MarySpender I started a channel, not this account, and it is quite the grind at the beginning. Props to all the people who don’t get discouraged by all the pitfalls.
My 1st RUclips check was $101 and will arrive on the 21st. My first video made $50 in a year at 20k views. It has been a long ride, but worth it knowing people appreciate my work. If your reading this, keep going, keep being you, and the people you need the most will love and support you. You are worth every second.
I really love these videos where you talk directly to the camera with honest discussions. Those videos give us a view of the inner workings of being a musician. Thank you Mary.
I have to applaud your run into your mid-roll add. So good to see someone anticipating exactly where it’s going to come and leaving a tiny bit of filler not doing one of those ridiculously jarring jump cuts where you lose half a sentence by simply shoving it anywhere in the middle. Great planning/editing.
Just want to say that the newsletter is worth signing up to, the transcripts are great. Your sense of where you are in your career is so complete. You deserve all the success that will come your way because you are a complete artist too.
An incredibly useful and interesting video, Mary. I’ve shared your original video with several of my creator-friends, and this one is a,so a “must”. Thank you so much.
You really inspired me about 3 or 4 years ago, so much so that I wrote your words down on paper and still have it hanging above my computer today. It reads, "If you are disciplined, and you set your sights on something, and you actually make yourself do the work, then you are much more likely to succeed." -Mary Spender I just thought I'd let you know that your words mean something to people you don't even know. Keep doing what you do!
Thank you for your informative and insightful content. You keep it fresh and interesting. I could listen to your music and angelic voice for hours at a time. Thank you for what you do. ☮️ ❤️ 🎸
I've sat through countless hours of professional training in my life and have to say you are a better, more professional, well-spoken and interesting presenter than most who do it for a living. I really enjoyed listening to the technical details of your focus here, despite the fact I have no connection to (or much interest in), your industry. But when you explain it, it's VERY relatable.
This has been the most interesting video I've seen on RUclips. I really love this transparency as someone who literally yesterday decided this is a platform I want to pursue. Thank you SO much, Mary. Definitely subscribed for life
Really appreciate that you've been transparent, and openly shared your journey as a content creator. I'm on my way to launching a channel - even though it's not music-oriented, your suggestions and insights have been really valuable in many of my content decisions. Came here for the music a long time ago, and enjoying all your content, Mary!
I am quite an old guy and not a musician, but I thank you for sharing your insights. I hope you will be able to make more money with your music and wish you good luck.
Hey Mary, I really appreciate your openness and humility in sharing this. Such an encouragement! I for one would love a detailed video on cover songs 👍
Thanks, this was very informative! Also showcasing several reasons why our project will kindly stay away from Youtubing. But much respect to those who do,
I may have watched that Sultans of Swing cover a few times, it's a great track that you obviously had a lot of fun with - brings a smile to my face every time. Thanks shining a light on the inner workings of RUclips.
While there are a great many videos on RUclips about how to earn money, this was the most comprehensive and easy to understand video I've yet seen. A big BRAVA to Mary for her amazing music and related content. May she get all the rewards she deserves! :)
"A big BRAVA to Mary for her amazing music and related content" - And also for having the strength and emotional security to show these figures. Most people don't want others to know how much money they make.
I've always been impressed by how numbers-driven artists often are (probably just as a survival trait). Mary exhibits the clarity and depth of financial knowledge a seasoned entrepreneur. She knows the intricacies of her delivery media, exceptions to obscure rules.. and, even rarer, she's honest. I wish her continued success, no one deserves it more.
You’re an inspiration, Mary. Your blazing a trail for other musicians is a service that can’t be measured in dollars or pounds. Keep doing what you’re doing. Maybe you’ll do a show next time you’re in NYC.
Thank you once again for a very informative video. I like how transparent you are with all of this. It never seems like you’re saying “do this” or “don’t do that”. You explain the potential outcomes of both sides of every fence! That feels far more encouraging than just a lecture. My channel is relatively new & I’m not sure if I’m sharing my music in the best way yet. But your experiences help me stay motivated. Thank you! ❤
Thanks for explaining that. Rick Beato gets shorted a lot due to the nature of his channel. I like the Idea that YT just give the "prorated" revenue to the label or content owner. Good for you to keep it there names in your title, good for the content owner and good for YT.
As a Singer/Songwriter with over 500 tunes in my catalog. My main focus is recording them in both Audio and Video and adding them to my channel. These videos of yours that explain things are extremely helpful. We live in perhaps the best time ever to be in control of our work. It's also incredibly time consuming and confusing, frustrating and discouraging. Keep the faith. Starve the doubt. Thank you!
Serious question, no hate. After working so many years, writing and being a musician without being recognized or discovered, what makes you keep going? Do you still have hopes of "making it?"or is it just for the love of what you do? I know people who are 50+ and are still playing little bars they played at back in high school. They all think they will be discovered one day. If it hasn't happened yet, it never will. I don't tell them that. I ask because I'm in a similar situation. Not with music, but something artistic. I'm wondering if I should kill myself to get out there or just be happy paying the bills?
@@flipflopski2951 bingo. Essentially at the end of the day any business that you're doing through or by RUclips can be whisked away in a heartbeat. Basically zero control. Folks also need to start suing whoever is putting out the copyright strikes.
I love Mary's honesty, transparency, kindness and general fun! Her voice is icing on the 🎂 RUclips should be paying Mary for her ability to communicate clearly and connect to the listeners. They're missing something here and Mary is too. There's value in a well spoken person narrating, especially in educational videos.
It's way past time that a TV production company picked up on the eloquent, informative, talent that is Mary Spender. There is so much this lady brings to the world and she deserves an enormous audience for everything she shares and creates. Kudos to you Mary as always.
why would you want to see someone who is free to create content that they enjoy, shoehorned into a TV role. That would undersell her creativity and talent. She already has a widespread exposure on a platform where she can connect with people.
@@mdreckow I totally get your point however, you are subscribing to the idea that the only way would be if Mary were to be 'shoehorned' into a TV role. The fact is that there are numerous strong people who have successfully navigated MSM not compromising on who they are. Something Mary already does so well. Either way, my point was that she deserves an even bigger audience and that so many more people can benefit from what she creates and refreshing openness.
I strongly suspect TV production companies are behind a lot of successful RUclipsrs. Many of these shows look like slick cable TV programs from HGTV or Discovery. That Shane Dawson guy was low-key a product of Disney, for instance.
Very interesting video. As someone who’s developing a channel now this type of information is illuminating. I’ve been following your channel for a few years now but never really connected the strategy to the content. Good information for new content creators.
Mary: record labels, spotify and uTube have shown many times over the past several years that they do not and will not make it easy for musicians to make money from their own art, and will de-monetize where ever and whenever they can, and certainly will! And that is why I love your videos and music, Mary. You share what you have with others, regardless of whether or not you stand to gain monetarily, or how much you will gain, if anything. Thank You for what and how you do what you do, and we love you for it. IMHO, utube and spotify will, sooner than later, go the way of the dodo bird, because of the greed they encourage, and propagate, and that goes for the record labels as well. The lion's share of the revenue should, and can go to the creators...period. All the best, Mary!
We need more people like you in this world. No BS in your videos (pardon my french)I'm french by the way and watch your videos from time to time. You're an awesome person.
It seems to me that RUclips could even make it trivial to split out the copyright content by requiring the content creators to parse out the copyrighted material using chapter markers and flagging them with some key words. Mary, you are doing great things for the community with your well-educated, frank, and open discussions about the nitty gritty machinations on this site. Keep it up, kid! 🍻
Do they 'copyright' holders just not want 'creators' to even 'promote' their videos by featuring their licensed content? Like, Rick Beato likes to complain about 'fair use'. However whatever the 'rules', would his channel have done NEARLY as well if he didn't make videos featuring the (copyrighted) music of EXTREMELY popular commercial artists? Would nearly as many people have 'tuned in' if Rick ONLY did break-downs of his own music, or bands that he personally produced?
they could put the wieght of this on the person claiming copyrigght to nominate the item btu then they would have to support it with real investigations......the idea is that you tube is just a gateway and makes money on the door with advertisers...the last thing they want to do is securty and support thats outlays of people
You Tube steals everything and harrasses people and steals identities and phones and accounts and intellectual property and inheritance and harrasses victims.
Mary your a class act! Transparency is where it's at. I had a channel 11 years ago with 1000 subs that was bringing in over $100 a month in ad revenue. My new channel in 2023 has over 1000 subs and is bringing in about $25 a month... Something changed. LOL. Just sayin'
Thank you for doing that video with Rick Beato regarding, "Operator". It was wonderful, and sticks with me to this day. And..."You can keep the dime!" Cheers, Andrew
Who uses RUclips closed captioning? lol only time I ever use it is when I accidentally click it and even Americans CC are always so wrong.. so very wrong lol
I’m not an artist by any means , but I subscribed bc of your transparency & honesty ( hard to find on social media) & I love supporting indie music. In fact indie music is some of the best out there imo. One of my fave’s “Once A Tree” I befriend the husband Hayden bc we have both lost a sibling. I feel like the musician can connect with their fans over someone like more well known. Can’t wait to watch more of your videos ❤
Even though I only watch RUclips, I greatly appreciate your time explaining these things. I am a retired combat medic but being able to show my children these explanations may help them financially in these changing times ❤
I always like the way you explain things (so clear) and this is no exception! Thanks for sharing some inside information on how this works. As a long-time subscriber I must conclude I basically like all the content you make. So keep up the good work 🙂
RUclips should not be able to steal the creators content just because of a copyright issue. RUclips is not a court of law and shouldn't be punishing creators by making up their own justice. They should be taking a video with an issue down and let the parties work it out.
I agree the system can be a bit ridiculous but it’s their platform. They can run it however they want and don’t owe creators any more than what they get. You can make a good living and be your own boss if you follow Mary’s attitude and live and learn. Make money on some videos, lose on others.
There is an appeal process, but arguing “fair use” seems to not work because the copyright holders are bullies and creators are just one person. If all creators did a class-action lawsuit versus the major labels it might help.
@@joermnyc Fair use is supposed to be for analysis and commentary. Covering someone’s song or using it as incidental music doesn’t qualify as fair use. That’s why arguing fair use doesn’t work in those cases. I’m sure Mary would expect to be compensated if her songs were used in videos that generated revenue.
Sadly, they are a private corporation. And, the United States of America have been dismantling public protections from corporate abuses/overreach since the 1980’s. They can do whatever they want, and they figure, if you don’t like it, just leave…. Unfortunately, it’s the same ridiculous justification many Americans spew when they feel helpless to change the status quo.
Quick questions. Do you ever live stream? If so, how does that factor in? If not, why? What about doing a live performance on a RUclips stream? I could see either turning on the stream during a live show with a live audience or just doing a live stream from your home where you play some of your songs. I've learned so much from this channel. Thanks for taking the time to explain all this. It's so helpful.
At 8:18 she mentions her live streaming income, and that it's pretty insignifcant. She livestreams on RUclips on Tuesdays, at least that's what it says on her channel's "About". I don't know whether it's performances or talk or both.
I am an electronics creator that has not posted a video in 10 years. A lot has changed since then. I just last year lost monitazation due to low watch hours. This video was great, and I fully agree with all of what you said. I am in the process of starting up again and giving my 32K subscriber I have left something to watch! I am also a musician and you have definitely earned my subscription, thank you! 😊
Wonderfully useful info Mary. As a veteran Muso/Producer who, thankfully had some success in the "Good 'ol days", I find making money from the new music biz model is very difficult. Your clear, honest and concise information is a godsend. Also, your talent is undeniable and I am certain that you will hit that tipping point of mainstream commercial success if you just maintain your current momentum, you certainly deserve it!.
Mary you are an incredible woman! Knowledge, talent, beauty.. the list goes on. Good luck with the solo career can't wait for the album somebody so humble deserves the success.
Mary, I would be surprised if you read this, but I hope youre well and am still VERY glad you do this!!! Blessings to you! Just so you know, your video on the dark side of ambition has really helped me and I know it has helped several others. Your videos and songs are great! I rellly hope they bring you enjoyment, it would be a heartache to lose you, but as always, take care of yourself Mary. I wish only good things for you! One of my favorite videos of yours is still your video with Rick Beato (another one of my idols, even though I am just a percussionist) reacting to your song The Great Wave. Even though I bought the song, I still love watching you and rick interacting.
Mary, Ric Beato, a music producer and musician has his own YT channel. He does presentations of "What makes this song great?" Rick will play snippets of songs, analyze the chords and progressions and explain the complexities. He is an amazing man. YT has demonitized many of his productions because of label strikes. He did give testimony as to why this shouldn't happen and honestly I agree with him. When young people watch his video's they discover music that they've never heard and are impressed to the point that the listener goes out and buys a CD or a vynil record. The label has now made at least one sale if not two dozen more if his friends enjoy the music too. It is amazing just how stingy, penny pinching, some labels are. They must be so desperate for revenue that they can't see the sun through the darkness of their souls.
the music industry, labels in particular, squeezed artists for every $, penny, cent. They supposedly invested heavily in the artist, records, tapes, cd's, marketing, promotion, concert tours, which in all fairness cost a lot of money. the problem is, after these artists began making mega bucks, they were deceived into signing ridiculous contracts that gave these manager/producers way too much power and control over the artist and their product. The lucky ones made enough money that it no longer mattered. Those days are over. The potential is still there...if.. you can generate an audience/client base. The issue still arises at the %'s certain companies/streaming services take per item, some take 2/3rd's, others a bit more, rarely does the artist get the bigger %. In saying that, some markets, as seen, have the potential to supply 20 - 100 million watchers/purchasers. Basically, if you can earn $1 per song, you need 1 million sales, 10 million is the jackpot, 20 +million, well..... as long as you/we understand how to keep and market our product. Many artists are trying to buy back their catalogue so that they own their music, while others have realised, the market is really hot to sell and they have been offered phenomenal amounts of $'s for the ownership..... maybe that's smart. Once it's sold though, it's very difficult and very expensive to get back. Wouldn't it be nice to have those sort of decisions to make
... and then sips for five seconds from her cup of coffee. I wasn't expecting that! A perfectly dry sense of humor. Well played. (and then the ad started)
I’m the opposite. I’ve canceled my premium and I’m working my way off youtube altogether. I have reasons for it mostly political, but I’m taking my money and time else where when my last month of premium runs out.
@@DanaOrtiz I to have quit paying for yt premium and mostly use Spotify for music. Furthermore yt is about to drive me to rumble because of the shenanigans they're doing, or allowing, in the comment section.
Thank you for this. I start my RUclips project next week, after spending a lot of time figuring out that RUclips is for building relationships, not sustaining income. Patreon - yes! I have a huge amount of work cut out for me as what I just worked with in small bits over the past few years becomes full time work. But as a multi-media creator, I am not tied to just music. And, my music is not made for the industry at all. Some of the music is therapeutic. All non-copyright issues. One question I had: I mark my videos as not containing content for children, because if I do include children as watchers, the videos can't be shared on playlists. This makes no sense whatsoever. Now, watching your video, I feel this rule just might be a way to lessen our ability to make revenue? Grrr if it is...
Hey Mary! Really enjoy your video's! Your are extremely talented and incredibly intelligent, with a heart to help people! Look forward to your next video! Thank you!
This right here is why I mostly stick to commercial video production. I just invoiced $10k for about 3-4 weeks of work. Not amazing, but easy, fun and I don’t have to worry about getting paid. RUclips is a racket and I can’t believe how little they pay the content creators
@@vitaminb4869 It’s what I recommend for most people. I did that for over 20 years until I broke out on my own. It’s worked out more or less ok. Can’t be a wage slave forever. I love calling my own shots and working whenever I feel like it. But for younger people it’s best to work a job before you try what I’m doing
Mary🌀 You’re a breath of fresh air. All your videos are honest and sincere. In short…. You have Integrity. There you go. Sounds like a good title for a song 🎶 or your next album🎵 You have the talent. May the Force be with you.🌀 Jim🌀 (-: :-)
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▶ How I Built My RUclips Channel: bit.ly/maryspenderyoutube
The First Video: ruclips.net/video/WE9zoXtLBaY/видео.html
✍ Sign up to my FREE newsletter for exclusive updates! www.maryspender.com/tour
Thanks for the video. I have a small channel and haven't given it any attention in about 3 years. I also didn't focus that content very well it's kind of scattered. I've been teaching guitar part-time and working a full-time 40-hour job for probably 5 or 6 years now, along with being in a couple of different bands. I spend probably 8-10 hours per week with a guitar in my hands on average. But I often feel like I do not get rewarded enough financially to balance out the effort and time I put into the instrument.
What I've been thinking lately, although many times I needed that money from teaching guitar, what if I had spent that 8 hours or so per week making videos for the channel, learning to get better looking shots, learning better editing, learning to get better audio, all the while going from 20 or so videos on that channel up to as many as 40 or more videos added per year. Building a catalog as you put it, I believe.
Trading time for money, vs trading time for an investment.
I feel like if I had made that leap 3 years ago, I would have a pretty solid income stream already right now. Maybe.... 150 vidoes on he channel. It's good to see things like this to know that yes, if you put the effort, there can indeed be a reward in the end.
RUclips is good at connecting people with the audience. I've been watching your videos for a few years and only just realized I wasn't subscribed this morning. You come up in my feed right alongside my subscriptions any way typically.
Anyway, thanks for the video. Thank you for the food for thought.
smart girl know what your doing and how it effects you!
Your point about RUclips calculating out shares with fair use stuff is an excellent point, and harkens back to a ton of discussion that people left on the table when Napster was the villain - labels are still struggling to keep up. (Thus ongoing battles like... Spotify.) For someone like me in the U.S., the idea that you present would be one to hammer BMI and ASCAP about. They are the closest thing that the music industry has to a real union and cohesive group. But you'd still have to get A-listers like Mayer or Swift on board. Just notice how it took decades of complaining and, finally, Taylor Swift to get movement on Ticketmaster. I'd plea your case about demonetization with whichever royalty groups you're a member of. They're all full of old blood and old ideas, there's somebody that would like to sound like they've cracked the mystery code. I don't know which videos you get the most views on, but your behind the biz ones are really my favorite.
@@joeallisonmachine I DONT CONDONE THEFT OF COPYRIGHT MATERIAL PERIOD ITS JUST SAD REAL ARTISTS CANT MAKE MONEY BECAUSE PEOPLE STEAL SHIT I PAY FOR MY STREAMING SERVICES
I am genuinely not saying this in a nasty way Mary but it did amuse me seeing you making this video, what with me being aware of your surname. 😊
I try to thank those content creators that I enjoy. I don't think I would be your target demographic...a truck driver from Oklahoma, USA, but I enjoy your music and appreciate the hard work that goes in to that process. Keep creating!!!
Agreed, stuck-in-his-ways classical music nerd here, but this explanation was fascinating and valuable; thank you very much and best wishes to Ms Spender!
Well done! I do the same! back before these platform if you were interest in whatever (finance, sports, music, whatever, you would have to pay for the product! it is fair we support them now too!!
Just found this and £5 is a small price to pay just to listen to your voice, and I haven’t even listened to your music yet! Be lucky (and successful).
I’m neither an independent musician or a RUclips creator, but find these videos extremely interesting. Thanks for sharing.
As an old guy who loves music (yes especially that from the late 1960's and early 1970's), it would be nice to see more musicians have more control over their music and the distribution of it. What you are doing helps that cause. Keep it up!!
It amazes me how, despite more open access, artists are doing worse today than 2 decades ago. Rather than democratize music, the Internet has allowed the industry to consolidate power.
@@c1ph3rpunk My reply is soley based on hope. My knowledge of the industry is very minimal. I am desiring a return to the time when musicians had some control of the music.
@@c1ph3rpunk A mere few decades ago, somebody like Ani DiFranco could figure out how to run her own publishing and record label, and put out 20 albums… Nowadays, she looks at the situation and has no idea how to innovate with that same spirit.
I regret that buying physical media for music has become so archaic. There was some honour and some commitment in that. Now you have Spotify taking away a big chunk of artists’ livelihood. I don’t like.
And we had all the great artwork on and in the albums, plus sometimes artist info, who was playing what instrument on the songs, and the song lyrics, etc. Kids today don’t know what they’re missing. They’ve been programmed and hypnotized to crave Beats. How sad. Where’s the melodies? Great chords and vocal harmonies? A lot of rubbish being pushed as music today. Haha What a sad joke. “I started a joke… that got the whole world crying.” - RIP Robin GIbbs
Hi Mark.... totally agree with you. I am an older musician who got back into music in 2017 in the last 5 yrs I have released 3 albums. 2 are on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon music, iTunes, Bandcamp and RUclips. I also get 100 ( wishful thinking) CDs done. I even got a music video which is on RUclips. Back in the day selling the CDs would help me go back into the studio and produce more music...... now it’s a joke. These streams pay next to nowt! Good job I have my pension. 👍😊
You’re so genuine in all that you do. Always great experiencing your content and perspectives. Thanks, Mary!
You are so welcome!
Yes
“Not suggesting to quit live music to make videos”
Well, if you make a video while playing live music, you can get two pigeons with one stone! 😉
I love your channel because you publish such good music and give us a first row seat on the backstage and background of your creative process in such a natural way it seems to me to know you since forever.😊
This was super informative. Thanks for taking the time to put it together!
You’re one of tge most honest voices on YT or music.
This is likely the best and most transparent video regarding creator compensation I've seen in quite a bit. I'm brand new to this channel (borrowing my first guitar right now, which
was how I found you) but I have to say, this is really great. Best to you and yours.
I’ve been watching for years. I’m so glad you are killing it on RUclips!
Still working hard and riding the waves - the ups and downs are wild, but I know that all the effort is worth it. x
@@MarySpender I started a channel, not this account, and it is quite the grind at the beginning. Props to all the people who don’t get discouraged by all the pitfalls.
My 1st RUclips check was $101 and will arrive on the 21st. My first video made $50 in a year at 20k views. It has been a long ride, but worth it knowing people appreciate my work. If your reading this, keep going, keep being you, and the people you need the most will love and support you. You are worth every second.
I really love these videos where you talk directly to the camera with honest discussions. Those videos give us a view of the inner workings of being a musician. Thank you Mary.
I have to applaud your run into your mid-roll add. So good to see someone anticipating exactly where it’s going to come and leaving a tiny bit of filler not doing one of those ridiculously jarring jump cuts where you lose half a sentence by simply shoving it anywhere in the middle. Great planning/editing.
Just want to say that the newsletter is worth signing up to, the transcripts are great.
Your sense of where you are in your career is so complete. You deserve all the success that will come your way because you are a complete artist too.
Fantastic breakdown of how the machine works - thank you!
Oh Mary, what an incredible video! Thanks for sharing with us!
Thank you so much!
Your honesty is appreciated! Your talent is admired!
Thank you so much Mary for your transparency on this subject matter!!!
Impressive sound quality on this recording. Well done.
One of the most genuine youtuber's on the platform. WIsh you all the success and more!
Super helpful and appreciated. Wishing you the best of luck with your music and keep creating!
An incredibly useful and interesting video, Mary. I’ve shared your original video with several of my creator-friends, and this one is a,so a “must”. Thank you so much.
You really inspired me about 3 or 4 years ago, so much so that I wrote your words down on paper and still have it hanging above my computer today. It reads, "If you are disciplined, and you set your sights on something, and you actually make yourself do the work, then you are much more likely to succeed." -Mary Spender I just thought I'd let you know that your words mean something to people you don't even know. Keep doing what you do!
Excellent post.
Hope you have had the success you were seeking.
God is good.
Thank you for your informative and insightful content. You keep it fresh and interesting. I could listen to your music and angelic voice for hours at a time. Thank you for what you do. ☮️ ❤️ 🎸
Wow, thank you!
I've sat through countless hours of professional training in my life and have to say you are a better, more professional, well-spoken and interesting presenter than most who do it for a living. I really enjoyed listening to the technical details of your focus here, despite the fact I have no connection to (or much interest in), your industry. But when you explain it, it's VERY relatable.
Definitely well spoken.
This has been the most interesting video I've seen on RUclips. I really love this transparency as someone who literally yesterday decided this is a platform I want to pursue. Thank you SO much, Mary. Definitely subscribed for life
Really appreciate that you've been transparent, and openly shared your journey as a content creator. I'm on my way to launching a channel - even though it's not music-oriented, your suggestions and insights have been really valuable in many of my content decisions. Came here for the music a long time ago, and enjoying all your content, Mary!
Thanks!
I am quite an old guy and not a musician, but I thank you for sharing your insights. I hope you will be able to make more money with your music and wish you good luck.
Thank you for your honesty and transparency 👍
Hey Mary, I really appreciate your openness and humility in sharing this. Such an encouragement! I for one would love a detailed video on cover songs 👍
Thanks, this was very informative! Also showcasing several reasons why our project will kindly stay away from Youtubing. But much respect to those who do,
Definitely would love a how-to video on covers!
Noted!
@@MarySpender Be interested how creators get away with tutorial videos too!
I may have watched that Sultans of Swing cover a few times, it's a great track that you obviously had a lot of fun with - brings a smile to my face every time.
Thanks shining a light on the inner workings of RUclips.
Beautiful honesty and creativity, what more could we ask of you Mary! 🎶
Fascinating! Thanks for the detailed breakdown on how this all works.
While there are a great many videos on RUclips about how to earn money, this was the most comprehensive and easy to understand video I've yet seen. A big BRAVA to Mary for her amazing music and related content. May she get all the rewards she deserves! :)
"A big BRAVA to Mary for her amazing music and related content" - And also for having the strength and emotional security to show these figures. Most people don't want others to know how much money they make.
Danke!
I've always been impressed by how numbers-driven artists often are (probably just as a survival trait). Mary exhibits the clarity and depth of financial knowledge a seasoned entrepreneur. She knows the intricacies of her delivery media, exceptions to obscure rules.. and, even rarer, she's honest. I wish her continued success, no one deserves it more.
Thanks!
You’re an inspiration, Mary. Your blazing a trail for other musicians is a service that can’t be measured in dollars or pounds. Keep doing what you’re doing. Maybe you’ll do a show next time you’re in NYC.
Awesome take on your realities! Many people will greatly appreciate it
Thank you once again for a very informative video. I like how transparent you are with all of this. It never seems like you’re saying “do this” or “don’t do that”. You explain the potential outcomes of both sides of every fence! That feels far more encouraging than just a lecture.
My channel is relatively new & I’m not sure if I’m sharing my music in the best way yet. But your experiences help me stay motivated. Thank you! ❤
Mary 👍👍 great video
This was very well done. I do enjoy the music from fresh artists who clearly love making music!
That's crazy. You definitely deserve more 💰💰💰
Thanks for explaining that. Rick Beato gets shorted a lot due to the nature of his channel. I like the Idea that YT just give the "prorated" revenue to the label or content owner. Good for you to keep it there names in your title, good for the content owner and good for YT.
Awesome breakdown 🎸🚀
As a Singer/Songwriter with over 500 tunes in my catalog. My main focus is recording them in both Audio and Video and adding them to my channel. These videos of yours that explain things are extremely helpful. We live in perhaps the best time ever to be in control of our work. It's also incredibly time consuming and confusing, frustrating and discouraging. Keep the faith. Starve the doubt. Thank you!
Serious question, no hate. After working so many years, writing and being a musician without being recognized or discovered, what makes you keep going? Do you still have hopes of "making it?"or is it just for the love of what you do? I know people who are 50+ and are still playing little bars they played at back in high school. They all think they will be discovered one day. If it hasn't happened yet, it never will. I don't tell them that. I ask because I'm in a similar situation. Not with music, but something artistic. I'm wondering if I should kill myself to get out there or just be happy paying the bills?
I’m so happy with the musician I am. The privilege to have learned from so many is a gift. Thank you for your work.
Damn right having your control on your music is the way to go.... Keep going , Mary - we love you !
RUclips has control of her music.
@@flipflopski2951 bingo. Essentially at the end of the day any business that you're doing through or by RUclips can be whisked away in a heartbeat. Basically zero control. Folks also need to start suing whoever is putting out the copyright strikes.
I love Mary's honesty, transparency, kindness and general fun!
Her voice is icing on the 🎂
RUclips should be paying Mary for her ability to communicate clearly and connect to the listeners. They're missing something here and Mary is too. There's value in a well spoken person narrating, especially in educational videos.
I think you meant to say the BBC.
It's way past time that a TV production company picked up on the eloquent, informative, talent that is Mary Spender. There is so much this lady brings to the world and she deserves an enormous audience for everything she shares and creates. Kudos to you Mary as always.
why would you want to see someone who is free to create content that they enjoy, shoehorned into a TV role. That would undersell her creativity and talent. She already has a widespread exposure on a platform where she can connect with people.
@@mdreckow I totally get your point however, you are subscribing to the idea that the only way would be if Mary were to be 'shoehorned' into a TV role. The fact is that there are numerous strong people who have successfully navigated MSM not compromising on who they are. Something Mary already does so well. Either way, my point was that she deserves an even bigger audience and that so many more people can benefit from what she creates and refreshing openness.
I strongly suspect TV production companies are behind a lot of successful RUclipsrs. Many of these shows look like slick cable TV programs from HGTV or Discovery. That Shane Dawson guy was low-key a product of Disney, for instance.
Very interesting video. As someone who’s developing a channel now this type of information is illuminating. I’ve been following your channel for a few years now but never really connected the strategy to the content. Good information for new content creators.
Mary: record labels, spotify and uTube have shown many times over the past several years that they do not and will not make it easy for musicians to make money from their own art, and will de-monetize where ever and whenever they can, and certainly will! And that is why I love your videos and music, Mary. You share what you have with others, regardless of whether or not you stand to gain monetarily, or how much you will gain, if anything. Thank You for what and how you do what you do, and we love you for it. IMHO, utube and spotify will, sooner than later, go the way of the dodo bird, because of the greed they encourage, and propagate, and that goes for the record labels as well. The lion's share of the revenue should, and can go to the creators...period. All the best, Mary!
We need more people like you in this world. No BS in your videos (pardon my french)I'm french by the way and watch your videos from time to time. You're an awesome person.
It seems to me that RUclips could even make it trivial to split out the copyright content by requiring the content creators to parse out the copyrighted material using chapter markers and flagging them with some key words. Mary, you are doing great things for the community with your well-educated, frank, and open discussions about the nitty gritty machinations on this site. Keep it up, kid! 🍻
Do they 'copyright' holders just not want 'creators' to even 'promote' their videos by featuring their licensed content?
Like, Rick Beato likes to complain about 'fair use'. However whatever the 'rules', would his channel have done NEARLY as well if he didn't make videos featuring the (copyrighted) music of EXTREMELY popular commercial artists?
Would nearly as many people have 'tuned in' if Rick ONLY did break-downs of his own music, or bands that he personally produced?
they could put the wieght of this on the person claiming copyrigght to nominate the item btu then they would have to support it with real investigations......the idea is that you tube is just a gateway and makes money on the door with advertisers...the last thing they want to do is securty and support thats outlays of people
It is easy for RUclips to do this but they choose not to.
You Tube steals everything and harrasses people and steals identities and phones and accounts and intellectual property and inheritance and harrasses victims.
Thank you, Mary! Well spoken, and fearless.. good woman!
Mary your a class act! Transparency is where it's at. I had a channel 11 years ago with 1000 subs that was bringing in over $100 a month in ad revenue. My new channel in 2023 has over 1000 subs and is bringing in about $25 a month... Something changed. LOL. Just sayin'
Far out. It’s like dealing heroin? (Make the deals ok at the start, then “cash in now honey”).😂
Thank you for doing that video with Rick Beato regarding, "Operator". It was wonderful, and sticks with me to this day. And..."You can keep the dime!" Cheers, Andrew
You know a creator has perfect English enunciation when RUclips's auto-captions read perfectly.
Who uses RUclips closed captioning? lol only time I ever use it is when I accidentally click it and even Americans CC are always so wrong.. so very wrong lol
Or they pay a better closed caption editor.
As rare as perfect pitch really quite beautiful
@RepentandbelieveinJesusChristOk man, steady! Not really the right platform to share really 🤔
She really has a beautiful speaking voice. Better than most English actresses.
Very eloquent and well put. Great job.
I’m not an artist by any means , but I subscribed bc of your transparency & honesty ( hard to find on social media) & I love supporting indie music. In fact indie music is some of the best out there imo. One of my fave’s “Once A Tree” I befriend the husband Hayden bc we have both lost a sibling. I feel like the musician can connect with their fans over someone like more well known. Can’t wait to watch more of your videos ❤
This is cogent and excellent, thank you, Mary!
Even though I only watch RUclips, I greatly appreciate your time explaining these things. I am a retired combat medic but being able to show my children these explanations may help them financially in these changing times ❤
You have a beautiful clear voice - I could listen to you all day.
I always like the way you explain things (so clear) and this is no exception! Thanks for sharing some inside information on how this works. As a long-time subscriber I must conclude I basically like all the content you make. So keep up the good work 🙂
Thank you for the information on building your RUclips channel. Will enjoy discovering your previous videos.
Thanks for sharing; subscribed!
RUclips should not be able to steal the creators content just because of a copyright issue. RUclips is not a court of law and shouldn't be punishing creators by making up their own justice. They should be taking a video with an issue down and let the parties work it out.
I agree the system can be a bit ridiculous but it’s their platform. They can run it however they want and don’t owe creators any more than what they get.
You can make a good living and be your own boss if you follow Mary’s attitude and live and learn. Make money on some videos, lose on others.
There is an appeal process, but arguing “fair use” seems to not work because the copyright holders are bullies and creators are just one person. If all creators did a class-action lawsuit versus the major labels it might help.
RUclips doesn't "steal creator's content." RUclips doesn't file the copyright complaint...other creators do.
@@joermnyc Fair use is supposed to be for analysis and commentary. Covering someone’s song or using it as incidental music doesn’t qualify as fair use. That’s why arguing fair use doesn’t work in those cases.
I’m sure Mary would expect to be compensated if her songs were used in videos that generated revenue.
Sadly, they are a private corporation. And, the United States of America have been dismantling public protections from corporate abuses/overreach since the 1980’s. They can do whatever they want, and they figure, if you don’t like it, just leave….
Unfortunately, it’s the same ridiculous justification many Americans spew when they feel helpless to change the status quo.
I found you via RUclips and subsequently purchased multiple tracks on ITunes. Keep up the great work.
Quick questions. Do you ever live stream? If so, how does that factor in? If not, why? What about doing a live performance on a RUclips stream? I could see either turning on the stream during a live show with a live audience or just doing a live stream from your home where you play some of your songs.
I've learned so much from this channel. Thanks for taking the time to explain all this. It's so helpful.
Good question
At 8:18 she mentions her live streaming income, and that it's pretty insignifcant. She livestreams on RUclips on Tuesdays, at least that's what it says on her channel's "About". I don't know whether it's performances or talk or both.
Thank you very much for sharing your findings, hoping RUclips takes note of your suggestions!
It certainly doesn't hurt having some HEAVY HITTERS get behind your channel!! That can help make ya become a Money Maker in this game much quicker!
Thanks a lot for sharing this info! :)
I am an electronics creator that has not posted a video in 10 years. A lot has changed since then. I just last year lost monitazation due to low watch hours. This video was great, and I fully agree with all of what you said. I am in the process of starting up again and giving my 32K subscriber I have left something to watch! I am also a musician and you have definitely earned my subscription, thank you! 😊
Thank you for posting this. It's very educational.
Wonderfully useful info Mary. As a veteran Muso/Producer who, thankfully had some success in the "Good 'ol days", I find making money from the new music biz model is very difficult. Your clear, honest and concise information is a godsend. Also, your talent is undeniable and I am certain that you will hit that tipping point of mainstream commercial success if you just maintain your current momentum, you certainly deserve it!.
You are so very talented. Best wishes Mary.
Mary you are an incredible woman! Knowledge, talent, beauty.. the list goes on. Good luck with the solo career can't wait for the album somebody so humble deserves the success.
Thanks for sharing. I admire your growth mindset.
Mary, I would be surprised if you read this, but I hope youre well and am still VERY glad you do this!!! Blessings to you! Just so you know, your video on the dark side of ambition has really helped me and I know it has helped several others. Your videos and songs are great! I rellly hope they bring you enjoyment, it would be a heartache to lose you, but as always, take care of yourself Mary. I wish only good things for you! One of my favorite videos of yours is still your video with Rick Beato (another one of my idols, even though I am just a percussionist) reacting to your song The Great Wave. Even though I bought the song, I still love watching you and rick interacting.
Big fan of your channel & your content, & most of all you & your personality, thank you for being you.
Mary, Ric Beato, a music producer and musician has his own YT channel. He does presentations of "What makes this song great?" Rick will play snippets of songs, analyze the chords and progressions and explain the complexities. He is an amazing man. YT has demonitized many of his productions because of label strikes. He did give testimony as to why this shouldn't happen and honestly I agree with him. When young people watch his video's they discover music that they've never heard and are impressed to the point that the listener goes out and buys a CD or a vynil record. The label has now made at least one sale if not two dozen more if his friends enjoy the music too. It is amazing just how stingy, penny pinching, some labels are. They must be so desperate for revenue that they can't see the sun through the darkness of their souls.
the music industry, labels in particular, squeezed artists for every $, penny, cent. They supposedly invested heavily in the artist, records, tapes, cd's, marketing, promotion, concert tours, which in all fairness cost a lot of money.
the problem is, after these artists began making mega bucks, they were deceived into signing ridiculous contracts that gave these manager/producers way too much power and control over the artist and their product.
The lucky ones made enough money that it no longer mattered. Those days are over.
The potential is still there...if.. you can generate an audience/client base.
The issue still arises at the %'s certain companies/streaming services take per item, some take 2/3rd's, others a bit more, rarely does the artist get the bigger %.
In saying that, some markets, as seen, have the potential to supply 20 - 100 million watchers/purchasers.
Basically, if you can earn $1 per song, you need 1 million sales, 10 million is the jackpot, 20 +million, well.....
as long as you/we understand how to keep and market our product.
Many artists are trying to buy back their catalogue so that they own their music, while others have realised, the market is really hot to sell and they have been offered phenomenal amounts of $'s for the ownership..... maybe that's smart.
Once it's sold though, it's very difficult and very expensive to get back.
Wouldn't it be nice to have those sort of decisions to make
She has been a guest on Ric’s channel.
@@steveturner3999 Yeah, I discovered this out about 4 hours ago around the time that you were making your post! Imagine that! PEACE!
Here’s another view and a thumbs up. Love your work, best of luck going forward!!!
"people will know..."😂🤣😂🤣
An artist's livelihood is important.. sustainability matters. I adore your work, do what works for you 👍😁
... and then sips for five seconds from her cup of coffee. I wasn't expecting that! A perfectly dry sense of humor. Well played. (and then the ad started)
I subscribed just to add to your channel's activity. This was fantastic and eye opening. Thank you for posting it!
I literally don't use Spotify. Most of my music listening is RUclips Music
I’m the opposite. I’ve canceled my premium and I’m working my way off youtube altogether. I have reasons for it mostly political, but I’m taking my money and time else where when my last month of premium runs out.
Me too. YT only.
I use YT music 98% of time
@@DanaOrtiz I to have quit paying for yt premium and mostly use Spotify for music. Furthermore yt is about to drive me to rumble because of the shenanigans they're doing, or allowing, in the comment section.
You tube has an agenda and follows googles dictatorship.
You tube sucks.
Your video with Josh playing Sultans of Swing was excellent! One of my favourite RUclips videos, period!
Hello thanks for reaching out! Text above to acknowledge your prize 📦
Thank you for this. I start my RUclips project next week, after spending a lot of time figuring out that RUclips is for building relationships, not sustaining income. Patreon - yes! I have a huge amount of work cut out for me as what I just worked with in small bits over the past few years becomes full time work. But as a multi-media creator, I am not tied to just music. And, my music is not made for the industry at all. Some of the music is therapeutic. All non-copyright issues. One question I had: I mark my videos as not containing content for children, because if I do include children as watchers, the videos can't be shared on playlists. This makes no sense whatsoever. Now, watching your video, I feel this rule just might be a way to lessen our ability to make revenue? Grrr if it is...
Actually, RUclips is all about huge profits…for the Google monopoly.
Hey Mary! Really enjoy your video's! Your are extremely talented and incredibly intelligent, with a heart to help people! Look forward to your next video! Thank you!
This right here is why I mostly stick to commercial video production. I just invoiced $10k for about 3-4 weeks of work. Not amazing, but easy, fun and I don’t have to worry about getting paid. RUclips is a racket and I can’t believe how little they pay the content creators
Is the work consistent? Do you make 10K every 3 or 4 weeks? If so, That's over 100k per year. Not bad
And after this 3-4 weeks you have no idea when your next paycheck is coming. Best to just keep a full time job and do things on the side.
@@stevengallant6363 Some years it’s consistent, it hasn’t been lately. But I also am producing another documentary which got funded.
@@vitaminb4869 It’s what I recommend for most people. I did that for over 20 years until I broke out on my own. It’s worked out more or less ok. Can’t be a wage slave forever. I love calling my own shots and working whenever I feel like it. But for younger people it’s best to work a job before you try what I’m doing
Nice production value...
mic, lighting, camera, etc.
Thank you for the information, too!
They should teach this in school.
Mary🌀
You’re a breath of fresh air.
All your videos are honest and sincere.
In short…. You have Integrity.
There you go. Sounds like a good title for a song 🎶 or your next album🎵
You have the talent.
May the Force
be with you.🌀
Jim🌀
(-: :-)
Thanks
Did you know that Crypto currency and Nfts will outsmart the banking system in the nearest future serving as a global fiat. Already making over 75% profit from my current investment.
You have true integrity
..... people like us never stop
Hit me you 👆 to claim your prize
Thanks for sharing, Mary.
Fantastic tutorial for *any* creator on YT. Another brilliant one Mary. Keep it up!
I watched your original content video to the end Mary. Thanks.