Livestreaming your concert is a brilliant way to reach fans who can’t attend in person, grow your audience globally, and create valuable content you can repurpose later. Whether you’re playing in a small venue or hosting your own living room session, livestreaming can help you connect directly with listeners in real time.
1. Choose your platform
First, decide where you want to stream. Choose a platform where your fans already hang out, or one that fits your goals:
- Instagram Live – great for casual, mobile-first audiences
- YouTube Live – ideal for longer streams and better video quality
- Facebook Live – useful for older audiences and local reach
- TikTok Live – good for short, high-energy performances (if you meet the eligibility)
- Twitch – popular for regular streaming and music discovery
- StageIt / Sessions / Bandcamp Live – built specifically for ticketed or donation-based music streams
You can also use multi-stream tools (like Restream or StreamYard) to go live on several platforms at once.
2. Plan your setup
You don’t need expensive gear to start, but a basic setup makes a big difference:
For beginners:
- A smartphone with a stable tripod or phone stand
- A ring light or natural daylight for visibility
- A quiet, uncluttered space
For a more professional look:
- A DSLR or webcam
- External microphone or audio interface for better sound
- Streaming software (like OBS Studio or Streamlabs)
- A laptop with a stable internet connection
Tip: Use wired internet (Ethernet) if possible—it’s more reliable than Wi-Fi.
3. Test your audio
Sound is the most important part of your livestream. Make sure:
- Vocals and instruments are balanced
- Background noise is minimised
- There’s no clipping or distortion when you sing or play loudly
- You do a full test stream (even privately) before going live
You can use a basic USB mic or plug your gear into an interface like a Focusrite Scarlett, then stream the audio via your computer.
4. Promote your livestream in advance
Don’t rely on the algorithm to do the work—promote your livestream like it’s a gig:
- Announce the date and time at least a week in advance
- Create countdown posts and reminders on your socials
- Use email newsletters or SMS to remind fans
- Share behind-the-scenes content to build interest
- Use Push.fm or Linktree to create a smart link with all the info
If you’re taking donations or selling tickets, make that clear and easy to access.
5. Engage during the stream
Interacting with your audience makes the stream more memorable:
- Greet people by name as they join
- Ask questions or take song requests
- Thank donors or shout out comments
- Keep an eye on the chat (or have someone assist you)
Even a small audience becomes more loyal when you make them feel seen.
6. Record and repurpose
Most platforms let you save the recording of your livestream. You can:
- Upload highlights to Instagram Reels, TikTok or YouTube Shorts
- Use the full set as a live album or exclusive fan content
- Clip performances to promote future shows or releases
- Share the link with those who missed the event
This gives your livestream lasting value beyond the live moment.
7. Consider monetisation
You can earn from livestreams in several ways:
- Tips and donations – via PayPal, Ko-fi, Buy Me a Coffee
- Ticketed streams – on platforms like StageIt or Bandcamp Live
- Merch sales – drop links during your performance
- Fan subscriptions – offer bonus content via Patreon or a private Discord
Make it easy for fans to support you, but don’t pressure them—focus on value and connection.
Livestreaming your concert is a powerful way to expand your reach and connect with fans on a deeper level. With a bit of preparation and the right setup, you can create an experience that feels intimate, professional and uniquely “you”.
