Buying your own music to boost streams or sales might seem like a shortcut to success — but it’s actually discouraged and can hurt you more than it helps. Here’s why:
1. It’s considered fraudulent activity
Music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Billboard monitor for “artificial manipulation.” If they detect an artist buying their own music or streams in bulk, they can remove your song, freeze your royalties, or even ban your account.
2. You don’t profit — you lose money
When you buy your own track, you still pay processing fees, distributor cuts, store fees, and taxes. You only get back a small percentage of what you spent — so financially, it’s a loss.
3. It ruins your data and analytics
Real fan engagement is priceless. If you inflate numbers by purchasing your own music, your stats won’t reflect real listener behavior. That makes it harder to market properly or attract labels, investors, or playlist curators.
4. It damages credibility
Industry professionals, fans, and distributors can often tell when numbers are fake. Suspicious spikes in streams or sales can make you look unprofessional or desperate, affecting your reputation.
5. Platforms and distributors can penalize or ban you
Many distributors (DistroKid, TuneCore, etc.) strictly prohibit buying your own music or streams. If caught, they can take down your music or cancel your entire catalog.
6. It’s not necessary for success
Organic growth, playlists, influencer support, TikTok trends, or good marketing will build loyal listeners — which is way more valuable than inflated numbers.
