BigXthaPlug is proving that independence can be more profitable than a major record deal.
The Texas rapper claims he earned $1 million from streaming in a single quarter, delivering a powerful message about artist ownership, music industry economics, and the growing influence of independent musicians.
During a recent appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast, BigXthaPlug opened up about his streaming revenue and explained why his financial situation puts him in a completely different negotiating position from artists signed to traditional record labels.
BigXthaPlug Says Independence Changed Everything
When the conversation turned to streaming payouts, BigXthaPlug made it clear that he sees a major difference between independent artists and musicians operating under traditional label contracts.
“I made $1 million last quarter just off streams,” he revealed.
The statement immediately raises questions about how much money artists actually keep from their music. While streaming numbers often dominate headlines, the percentage artists receive after distributors, labels, and other expenses take their share can tell a very different story.
BigXthaPlug currently distributes his music through UnitedMasters, which allows independent artists to release music while maintaining greater control over their earnings.
His reported $1 million quarter demonstrates why more musicians are reconsidering traditional record deals.
BigXthaPlug Has No Reason to Chase a Major Label
Perhaps the most interesting part of the interview was BigXthaPlug’s attitude toward signing a major label deal. Rather than chasing a massive advance, the rapper says he wants something more valuable: ownership and a favorable percentage of his earnings.
He explained that financial independence gives him leverage when negotiating with major labels. That perspective challenges an industry that has long sold record deals as the ultimate measure of success.
With his new album “Better With Time” now officially released, BigXthaPlug has another opportunity to turn his growing momentum into even greater success.
