AUSTIN — Through cashless tipping, a new app may help musicians struggling to make a living.
Austin is known for its live music. For fans, it's a blessing, but for artists trying to survive, it can be a problem.
“Because there are many artists, it's hard to get paid fairly for your craft -- no matter how good you may be,” said SaulPaul, a rapper and singer/songwriter.
Reports show musicians nationwide make less than $25,000 a year and, in Austin, that number is even lower. A spokesperson for the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians said they've found that over 80 percent of Austin musicians earn less than $24,000 a year.
Not only is there low pay, but SaulPaul said he's seen another big change in the last five to seven years.
“Nowadays because people carry less," said SaulPaul. "It impacts on-site purchases, and investments, and tips."
Fewer tips make it harder to buffer low pay, so that's where app creator Orlando Lopez stepped in. He said he got the idea after spending several years producing a television music program.
“Doing that for eight years, working with hundreds of bands, it's just obvious,” said Lopez.
It was obvious to him that with the changing times, musicians needed help.
“I like to imagine an environment where musicians cannot just survive but they can actually thrive making music, doing what they were created to do,” said Lopez.
With his app MuchLuv, there's no need for cash. Fans can tip their favorite musicians right then and there. Artists like SaulPaul believe this app can help bridge the gap.
“Now it can go back to that impulse like, wow, in the moment when the music touches you, the person that listens to the music and experiences the music can now contribute to the success of the artist,” said SaulPaul.
In addition to giving money, the app also allows fans to check out an artist's website or connect to them on social media. Lopez hopes this app creates a whole new experience between fans and musicians.