The Basic Guide to Music Distribution for Independent Artists
In today’s music industry, independent artists have more opportunities than ever to share their music with the world. However, simply creating a great track isn’t enough—you need the right distribution strategy to ensure your music reaches the widest audience possible.
Why Music Distribution Matters
Music distribution is the process of getting your songs onto streaming platforms, online stores, and social media platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and more. A strong distribution strategy helps you:
- Monetize your music through streaming and downloads
- Expand your reach to global audiences
- Track analytics to understand where your music is performing best
- Split revenue with collaborators effortlessly
- Leverage promotional tools to boost your visibility
Types of Music Distribution Platforms
There are two main types of music distributors:
Flat-Fee Distributors – You pay an annual or per-release fee and keep 100% of your earnings.
- Examples: DistroKid, TuneCore, RouteNote, Amuse
Revenue-Share Distributors – They take a percentage of your earnings but often offer free distribution.
- Examples: CD Baby, LANDR, UnitedMasters, Symphonic
Key Features to Look for in a Music Distributor
1. Fast and Reliable Customer Support
When choosing a distributor, look for platforms that offer quick support via email or chat. Having a dedicated support team ensures that any issues (such as claims, metadata errors, or payment concerns) are resolved efficiently.
2. Advanced Analytics & Sales Reports
A good distributor provides detailed analytics so you can track:
Where your streams are coming from
Which platforms are performing best
Revenue breakdown by country and store
This data helps you refine your marketing strategies and focus on your most engaged audience.
3. Revenue Splitting for Collaborations
If you’re working with producers, featured artists, or labels, revenue splitting can be a game-changer. Many distributors offer automated revenue split features, allowing seamless payments without manual calculations.
Final Thoughts – How to Succeed in Music Distribution
Choosing the right distributor depends on your goals as an artist. If you want unlimited releases and full earnings, a flat-fee distributor like DistroKid or TuneCore is ideal. If you’re interested in sync licensing and playlist opportunities, platforms like CD Baby or UnitedMasters might be a better fit.
Ultimately, music distribution is more than just uploading tracks—it’s about finding the best platform that aligns with your career strategy and growth. Take the time to explore different options, track your progress, and maximize your reach as an independent artist!