Country sensation Oliver Anthony’s song “Rich Men North of Richmond” has struck a chord with listeners, propelling the artist to earn a staggering $40,000 per day from the self-released hit. Anthony’s decision to decline an $8 million record deal has proven lucrative as his viral track resonates with blue-collar workers, addressing themes of inflation, taxes, and elitism.
Since its release on August 11, the song has surged to the top of music charts, capturing attention and amassing significant earnings. Most of the revenue originates from iTunes downloads and streaming on platforms like Spotify, contributing to Anthony’s impressive daily income.
In the initial week alone, “Rich Men North of Richmond” garnered 147,000 iTunes downloads, translating to around $102,000. Although the specifics of Anthony’s royalties from streaming services remain unclear, data from streaming platform Chartmetric indicates the song receives approximately 2 million daily streams.
Industry insiders, like Ross Michaels from Park Avenue Artists, note that artists typically receive around 70% of streaming revenue, with the remainder going to platforms like Spotify. Michaels highlights that an artist would need approximately 10 million daily streams to make $40,000, based on the general industry rule of thumb.
Anthony’s song touches on pressing issues affecting everyday individuals, which resonates with his audience. However, his unconventional approach has led him to bypass corporate record labels, resulting in full creative control. The artist’s decision to stay independent comes with its own set of challenges and advantages, as he takes charge of promotion, marketing, and distribution.
While Anthony could have secured significant backing from a record label, his viral success has positioned him as an influential voice in the industry. His self-released track not only provides financial gain but also the ability to shape his narrative without compromise. As Anthony continues to gain momentum, his decision to trust in his vision and maintain his unique perspective appears to be paying off.
In a recent release titled “I Want to Go Home,” Anthony once again delves into relevant issues, touching on war, religion, and environmental concerns. The song has already garnered substantial attention on Spotify, suggesting that his ability to connect with audiences remains unwavering.
By carving his own path in the music industry, Oliver Anthony sets an example of independence and authenticity. His viral success story underscores the power of connecting with listeners on a personal level, emphasizing that artists can thrive outside the conventional music business model.
