The Shift of British Musicians to OnlyFans
In response to ongoing financial strains in the music industry, British artists Kate Nash and Lily Allen have adopted the subscription-based platform OnlyFans to support their musical careers and touring endeavors. This move highlights the broader economic challenges that artists face globally.
Kate Nash's OnlyFans Initiative
Kate Nash created an OnlyFans account named "Butts 4 Tour Buses" with the objective to provide better wages and safer travel conditions for her band and crew. Nash uses her platform to promote a humorous and empowered image, urging her followers to support her on OnlyFans rather than streaming platforms like Spotify, where she earns around 0.003 pence per stream. On her Instagram, Nash stated, "No need to stream my music, I’m good for the 0.003 of a penny per stream thanks."
Lily Allen Finds Empowerment on OnlyFans
Lily Allen has also explored new opportunities through OnlyFans, finding it empowering, especially in terms of personal control over her portrayal. On her podcast, Miss Me , in July, Allen shared insights into her experience on the platform, reflecting on her past experiences of being sexualized in the industry.
Economic Challenges in the Music Industry
The decision by both Nash and Allen to join OnlyFans illustrates the severe economic realities within the music business. A Musicians Union census disclosed that nearly half of UK musicians earn less than £14,000 annually from their art. To achieve a living wage in the UK, independent artists require approximately 9 million streams per year on services like Spotify—a target that is unattainable for many.
Survey Shows Tough Economic Landscape for Artists
A survey conducted by Pirate Studios provided further insight into the economic difficulties, revealing that only 29% of artists make a profit from touring. The high costs and unstable economy have exacerbated the situation. An earlier government report this year also highlighted a mounting crisis in touring costs, with rising expenses on travel, accommodation, and food.
Rethinking Revenue Streams
The candid discussions by Nash and Allen about their OnlyFans ventures are shedding light on the diminishing valuation of music and the financial dilemmas facing artists. Such discussions prompt a reconsideration of revenue streams in the digital age, indicating a trend where artists seek alternative income sources to sustain their careers in music.
