SoundCloud's direct-to-fan sales: a game changer for artists

Zero commission on music sales could reshape the artist-fan relationship, allowing creators to set their own prices and sell directly from their profiles.

Told by Jake Donovan · 27 August 2026

SoundCloud is testing a new feature that will allow artists to sell music directly to fans from their profiles, enabling fans to buy and download tracks without being redirected to an external platform. This feature will let artists set their own prices and offer music in formats including MP3 and WAV. Notably, SoundCloud will take no commission from sales, meaning artists will keep 100% of each sale, excluding standard fees and taxes.

Currently in beta for 200 US-based Artist Pro creators, feedback from this trial will help shape the service before it becomes available to all eligible creators later this autumn. Participating artists will be able to track their sales through Artist Studio and the Fan Support Dashboard. This new direct sales feature will complement SoundCloud’s existing monetization options, such as Fan-Powered Royalties, Fan Support, on-demand vinyl, and ticketing.

SoundCloud's CEO, Eliah Seton, stated, “Artists should be able to build their audience in one place, on one platform.” He emphasized that SoundCloud has always been where artists find their first fans and build real communities, and this initiative aims to let fans directly support the music they love.

The platform has identified a clear demand for music sales, with around 250,000 artists currently directing fans to external platforms to purchase music, accounting for 2.4 million tracks linked for sale. Each year, approximately 500,000 SoundCloud users are directed to those sites. Additionally, a survey found that 28% of artists either already sell downloads or wish to start.

In a strategic move to enhance its offerings, SoundCloud also recently acquired Nina Protocol, an independent blockchain-based music service that allows creators to build and run their own digital stores. Last month, SoundCloud launched a new all-in-one artist subscription plan that combines distribution, fan support, and merchandise tools into one package. As SoundCloud continues to evolve, this bold approach could significantly redefine the artist-fan relationship and provide a much-needed financial lifeline for creators navigating the often turbulent waters of the music industry.