Types of Apps for Musicians in 2024

Introduction

Are you a musician who is gigging frequently with a huge repertoire and just can’t remember your lyrics and chords? Do you need a way to record your rehearsals or gigs so that you can improve your act, or post last Friday’s concert on YouTube? Do you want to record, mix, and publish your newest song, but don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on studio fees? This is a list of types of apps that millions of musicians use worldwide.

In today’s digital age, technology plays a vital role in every aspect of our lives, and being a musician is no exception. From songwriting, recording music, gigging, managing, and promoting your band, there are countless apps available to help musicians.

Nowadays, you can turn your smartphone or tablet into a powerful tool that can help you with lyrics and chords during gigs, tune your instrument, connect to your fans, and the list goes on.
All of these apps give you the convenience and portability.

Apps for musicians are exactly what Easymusicgig is about:

• Helping musicians gig easier
• Minimizing gear that we would usually use without apps 

In this article, we will explore the types of apps that every musician should consider adding to their collection of apps. Consider this post as an informational crossroad where you as a musician can decide which type of app or apps would be most useful for you at this moment. If you are a band that is gigging a lot, you would be most interested in an app that would help you with live performances. If you are a singer/songwriter, consider getting an app that will help you with writing lyrics, and getting ideas for new songs, or if you are learning jazz standards you should consider getting an app with a virtual band so you can improvise, and so on.

My intention in this post is not to go into too much detail about every app, but more about what types of apps are available for different needs and naming a few popular ones.

Benefits of using apps for musicians

Numerous benefits are provided with the use of apps whether you are performing live or trying to write a song and record your ideas. Let’s talk about the main ones:

1. Convenience and Portability

With just a tablet or smartphone you can make your gig or recording session as easy as a breeze. Think of it, instead of a bulky analog recording device, PC tower, or even a laptop, you can make a very good quality recording of your songs just with your tablet or your mobile phone, no multiple devices. How many times did you have to haul your binders full of unorganized lyrics and chords to your gigs? I know a guy who used to carry a travel bag with at least 10 of them since he played hundreds, if not thousands of songs. Imagine all of those songs in a single iPad, found during a gig with a simple search if needed.

2. Time and Money

When using apps for musical applications, there is no longer a need to invest money in expensive studio equipment or hire technicians to do the job which you can do with a click of a button. The results are these recordings are very close to studio recordings, with only a fraction of the cost.

3. Collaboration with other musicians

Apps make it possible to connect to other musicians worldwide, so you share your musical ideas and have virtual jam sessions. This opportunity can give you a huge boost in widening your network.

4. Access to online libraries

Not only can you organize and edit songs you already play, but you have access to unlimited sources for downloading lyrics, chords, and sheet music.

Best apps for live performances and managing music files

My story

This type of app is one of the main reasons I started this blog.

I used to have a normal-sized 3-ring binder for my band and a big-sized one for solo gigs where I played a huge variety of other songs than with the band. When I wanted to change the order of songs in sets, I had to manually do that at home, or in a hurry just 15 minutes before the gig. Song requests were a nightmare!

If the gig was outdoors wind was always a problem. I always had to use some clip-on LED or normal light that used to be too low or looked terrible.

Then I bought a used iPad Air and the OnSong app: which changed my life as a musician. For me, this is the best app for lyrics and chords. That made me think differently when buying new gear and organizing gigs.

Why do the following apps make live gigs easier?

By incorporating these apps into your live music shows, as well as your ever-lasting learning and practice routine, you will change your life as a musician towards a much easier, hassle-free experience. Not only will you no longer need to carry an endless number of music sheets to your gig, but you will be introduced to a new world of capabilities never before possible without digital technology.

Some of the most helpful features of apps for live (and learning) applications:

• no need for physical sheet music anymore
• editing and adding specific colors to lyrics and chords, transposing keys, and adding notes to specific parts of songs.
• creating and organizing setlists for different occasions and different bands you play in.
• auto-scrolling function for lyrics in sync with actual songs.
• search functions filtered by multiple parameters such as key, author, tempo, musical style,…
• syncing with other band members in a live situation, where one person controls all devices.
• the possibility of importing an unlimited number of sheet music from online sources and other musicians.
• no need for additional light for lyrics.
• no fear of wind blowing your sheets all over the place

Best apps for gigs

1. OnSong

If you’re in a band or perform as a solo act with a big repertoire, Onsong will make your gigs as easy as it gets. The layout is simple and effective. Managing setlists, chord charts, and lyrics has never been easier. You can reorder setlists, change keys, search, and pull songs with 1 or 2 clicks. Adding lyrics and chords to a new song to the library is as simple as finding it on a site such as Ultimate Guitar and just sharing it with the OnSong file option. After that, you go to OnSong where there is a window asking for permission to import the song. Click OK, and the new song is in your library.

Pros

• Import tracks directly from your iTunes Music Library or online sources
• Share your songs with others online via email and Bluetooth
• Works with many Bluetooth foot pedals from AirTurn, IK Multimedia, iRig Blueboard, Donner, Coda,…
• Includes a metronome
• The app offers features like automatic scrolling, annotations, and wireless
  synchronization between band members.
• Transpose and highlight chords or change the font size with a brush of your finger.

Cons

• Only for Apple devices

2. forScore

Probably the most used score reader. ForScore turns your device into a digital sheet music reader, eliminating the need for physical sheet music. The app offers annotation tools, page-turning gestures, and the ability to import and organize sheet music from various sources. With ForScore, you can have your entire sheet music library at your fingertips, making rehearsals and performances more efficient. It has a rating of 5.0 on the App Store which says a lot. Only for iOS devices.

3. Newzik

As forScore, an app specialized for reading scores. 400k musicians are using the Premium version. The interface for Newzik is very different from that of forScore which doesn’t mean one is better than the other. The best way to find out which app is better for you is to try both for free and see which suits your needs better. ForScore only runs on Apple devices.

4. MuseScore: sheet music

The world’s best app for performing musicians who work with notation that works on all devices, including ones that run on Linux. It allows you to create, edit, and print music scores. It is free to use, but there is a paid premium version. MuseScore has a wide selection of useful features and a mostly straightforward user interface. MuseScore also gives you access to an amazing online score library (musescore.com).

5. Setlist Helper

A simple app to get your sets organized and manage your lyrics. Available for iOS, Android, and PC.

Best apps for recording and editing music

Recording and editing music never was easier! Your tablet or smartphone can easily do multitrack recording and audio editing, as well as add any effect you can think of. Here is a short list of the most popular recording and editing apps:

1.GarageBand (best Apple app)

Probably the most popular recording app GarageBand by Apple can be used on all of their devices: Mac, iPad, and iPhone. GarageBand for iOS makes it incredibly simple to play, record, mix, and share your music, no matter where you are, thanks to its user-friendly interface. It has an expanding sound library, which you can use to browse or download free sounds, loops, and samples that are created by some of the best producers in the world. It even has a Live Loops feature for creating music the same way a DJ does. Third-party plugins are available for customizing your sound. Play any imaginable instrument or create your own beats with Smart Drums.

GarageBand is a full recording studio, on the go. The app is free but is available only for iOS devices.

2.BandLab (best Android app)

Free to download, and available for both Android and iOS devices, BandLab is a multimedia application that works as a music-making tool. It also provides a social platform where you can share your music worldwide.

Like GarageBand, BandLab is easy to use

3.Cubasis 3

Cubase from Steinberg is one of the original DAWs, which is beloved by many producers around the globe. If you are interested in getting an app for your portable device that is an advanced option, you should consider Cubasis 3. It offers the ability to use third-party plugins for more creative production. It is not free and has a higher learning curve than other apps on this list, but could be a better solution for those who are looking for an app with more features and functionality.

4. n-Track Studio DAW

n-Track Studio is a powerful Audio and MIDI multitrack recorder & music-making app that turns your iOS or Android device into a complete Recording Studio and beat Maker. Many say it’s the best Android recording and production app available.

5. FL-Studio Mobile

FL Studio is available for Android and iOS devices. Many users will agree that beatmaking is their specialty. It also supports MIDI controllers, so you can connect external instruments and effects.

Teaching Apps

Practice is essential for becoming a skilled musician. If you are learning a new instrument, new songs, or new techniques, or are simply practicing to improve your musical skills, apps can be a powerful tool that will assist you through the whole process.

1. iReal Pro

iReal Pro offers an easy-to-use tool to help musicians of all levels master their art. It simulates a real-sounding band that can accompany you as you practice, in any key and tempo. It also lets you create and collect chord charts of your favorite songs for reference. There are thousands of chord charts that you can download for free thanks to iReal Pro’s global community of

Musicians. More than 2M musicians worldwide have been using iReal Pro for more than 13 years.

2. Yousician

Yousician is an app that will teach you how to play the guitar, bass, piano, and even sing in a fun and easy way no matter your skill level. The award-winning technology listens to you play and gives instant feedback on your accuracy and timing. That way you will always be playing the right notes. Step-by-step videos guide you through each lesson. It provides more than 10.000 lessons, exercises, and songs. Available on Google Play and App Store.

3. Fender Play

The Fender Play app teaches you with song-based lessons which makes learning fun. It is suited for everyone, whether you have a few minutes or 2 hours a day scheduled for learning.

Apps for songwriting and composition

Every song starts with composing, and apps can provide you with tools that will help you through that journey. Using these apps can have a significant impact on your songwriting workflow.

1. Smart Chords

It has 40 cool tools (that sounds nice, doesn’t it?) for learning, composing, and playing for beginners as well as professional musicians.

2. Music Maker JAM

Music Maker JAM is the ultimate beat and loops mixer app. Use it to create, and share tracks of all genres: hip-hop, trap, R&B, house, pop, rock,…

It’s designed for beat makers, producers, DJs, beginners and pros.

3. Garage Band (best for iPhone users)

As we already mentioned, Garage Band is a favorite production tool for your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Songwriting or composing is made easy with this app as well.

4. Walk Band

Walkband is an Android application that has all the basic instruments needed for a band. You can play, record, and export your music with this application.

5. GroovePad (best for DJs)

Groovepad is an easy-to-use music maker app with an extensive library of unique sounds. It’s packed with  FX effects such as filter, flanger, reverb, and delay.

6. Any app for music recording and production

Apps for promoting and marketing music

In this digital age. promoting and marketing your music is essential for reaching a wider audience and building a fanbase. Dozens of apps are specialized in promoting your music. Let your personal preference decide which one suits you best. This is a list of the most popular ones.

1. Spotify

Spotify is a digital music, podcast, and video service that millions of people can access. It’s a fantastic platform for getting your music discovered, and if you get a significant number of streams, you can monetize your music directly.

2. Distrokid

DistroKid is a digital music distribution service that musicians use to put music into online stores & streaming services. These include iTunes, Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon, Deezer, TIDA,…

3. Tik Tok

The short-form video content king, 1.7 billion users. Famous TikTokers recommend videos between 10-17 seconds for the best viewers’ attention.

4. Youtube

2 billion users is a lot! YouTube works in multiple languages, which is one of its most powerful features. Also, it is a cost-effective way to promote your music since it is free to use. We all know that YouTube allows you to upload lengthy videos, so if that is something you need, that’s the place to be with your music.

5. Droptrack

Droptrack is an AI-powered app that helps musicians, record labels and producers promote their music. It keeps all your music and metadata in one place making it easy to manage and share with your fans and people from the music industry.

6. Hootsuite (best for social media)

This is an app that all the work on your social media platforms. It schedules when and where your social media content will be posted, as well as monitors how your posts are performing so that you can improve things on the go.

7. Mailchimp

Mailchimp is a marketing automation and email marketing platform. It offers the opportunity to market directly to your fans. Many marketers find that email subscribers are much more engaged than their social followers are, so email marketing is essential for anyone being serious about their music career. It automates the process of sending professional-looking newsletters so your fans can be informed about your latest releases and upcoming shows. It also tracks the effectiveness of your campaigns.

Tuning Apps

With smartphones and tablets all around us, the actual physical tuner is almost gone for good. Yes, you have a tuner in your pedalboard for live performances, but what about grabbing your guitar while having your first-morning coffee, you want to get the guitar tuned yesterday, right?

Here are some of the most popular apps for tuning:

1. GuitarTuna

2. Pro Guitar Tuner

3. The Metronome by Soundbrenner

Conclusion: Apps helping musicians

In this digital age, technology is helping musicians in every aspect. From recording mixing, performing, practicing, and promoting music, many valuable types of apps for musicians, many of which are free to use, are making life for musicians easier than ever.

It’s not all about which good apps for musicians you will use, but how you use them. If you perform frequently apps for gigs will probably be your most used type of music app. If you compose or learn new music try these types of apps. Try different apps, experiment with them, and find out which ones suit you best.