If you make music, you should have a website. A website allows you to share your music, build a fan base, and earn money. WordPress is an excellent choice because it’s simple, flexible, and easy to use. You don’t need to be a developer to start. Let’s walk through how you can build a WordPress website to sell music.
Step 1: Set Up WordPress
First, you need a website base.
- Get a domain name – This is your website address (like myband.com).
- Choose a hosting provider – Select a WordPress hosting plan from reputable providers like Bluehost, SiteGround, or Hostinger.
- Install WordPress – Most hosting providers have one-click WordPress installation.
Once WordPress is ready, you can log in to your dashboard.
Step 2: Pick the Right Theme
Your theme determines the appearance of your website.
- Search for music themes like Astra, OceanWP, or specific music themes from ThemeForest.
- Select a design that supports good audio player functionality.
- Install and activate the theme by navigating to Appearance > Themes > Add New.
Your theme should highlight your songs and albums, not distract from them.
Step 3: Install Essential Plugins
Plugins add features to your website. For music, here are the must-haves:
- WooCommerce – to sell your songs, albums, or merchandise.
- Easy Digital Downloads – for selling music downloads.
- AudioIgniter or Compact WP Audio Player – to let fans listen to the audio before making a purchase.
- Yoast SEO – to help your site rank on Google.
- WPForms – to add a contact form for bookings or fan messages.
Install these from Plugins > Add New in your dashboard.
Step 4: Upload and Display Your Music
You need to show your songs in a way that’s easy for visitors to play and buy.
- Use AudioIgniter or a similar plugin to make playlists.
- Add an audio player to your homepage or album page.
- Organize your music into categories like singles, albums, or playlists.
This lets fans preview before they buy.
Step 5: Set Up Selling Options
You can sell your music in two main ways:
Option 1: With WooCommerce
- Add each song or album as a product.
- Set the price and upload the file.
- Fans can add it to their cart and proceed to checkout.
Option 2: With Easy Digital Downloads
- Best for selling downloads directly.
- Simple checkout, no extra cart steps.
Both options allow you to accept payments via PayPal, Stripe, or credit cards.
Step 6: Add Extra Pages
Your website should include:
- Home Page – with your latest release.
- Music Store – where fans can browse songs or albums.
- About Page – tell your story.
- Contact Page – for bookings, collaborations, or fan messages.
- Blog – share news, behind-the-scenes, or upcoming shows.
Step 7: Make It Easy to Find You
A website without traffic won’t sell. Promote your music:
- Utilize SEO plugins, such as Yoast, to optimize your pages.
- Share links on your social media.
- Add your website link to your YouTube, Spotify, and SoundCloud profiles.
- Collect emails with a signup form so you can tell fans about new releases.
Step 8: Secure Your Website
Since you’ll be selling music, you need to protect your site.
- Use SSL (HTTPS) for secure payments.
- Keep WordPress, themes, and plugins up to date.
- Install a security plugin like Wordfence.
Step 9: Customize the Design
Ensure your website accurately reflects your brand.
- Use colors and fonts that match your style.
- Add high-quality images or album covers.
- Keep it simple. Too much design can distract from your music.
FAQs
Q: Can I sell music directly without iTunes or Spotify?
Yes. WordPress, combined with WooCommerce or Easy Digital Downloads, allows you to sell music files directly.
Q: Can fans listen to my songs before buying?
Yes. Use an audio player plugin, such as AudioIgniter, to add previews.
Q: Do I need coding to build this site?
No. Everything can be done with themes, plugins, and simple settings.
Q: Can I also sell merchandise?
Yes. WooCommerce allows you to sell T-shirts, posters, or any other product.
Final Thoughts
Building a WordPress website to sell music is easier than you think. With the right theme, plugins, and setup, you can create a professional music store. Add previews, sell downloads, and promote your work—all from one site. This gives you control over your music, your fans, and your income.