Top 5 Distribution Sites for Independent Artists and Labels
Music distribution sites have revolutionized the music industry. These platforms have enabled artists and record labels to spread their music to a wider audience. In this post, I will be discussing the top sites available, their strengths, weaknesses, and how to choose the right one for you.
Scroll down for a quick overview and a table of strengths and weaknesses!
DistroKid
DistroKid is one of the most popular music distribution sites in the world. It has a straightforward interface and allows users to share their music to over 150 digital music stores, including Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music. They charge a flat yearly fee, which allows musicians to upload an unlimited number of songs and albums.
TuneCore
TuneCore has been around for over a decade. The platform offers a range of services, including distribution, publishing administration, and artist services. With TuneCore, musicians can have access to over 150 digital music stores as well, including iTunes, Amazon Music, and Google Play. There are two pricing plans: a flat yearly fee for an unlimited number of songs, and a percentage-based fee for publishing administration.
CD Baby
CD Baby is one of the oldest music distribution sites in the industry, having been around since 1998. The platform offers a similar services to the previous two, with access to the same amount of digital music stores, including Spotify, iTunes, and Amazon Music. There is a one-time fee per album or single upload, with no recurring fees.
Symphonic Distribution
Symphonic Distribution offers a range of services, including music distribution, publishing administration, and artist services. The platform distributes music to over 300 digital music stores, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. Symphonic Distribution offers a range of pricing plans, including a flat fee for distributing an unlimited number of songs and a percentage-based fee for publishing administration.
Amuse
Amuse is a free site that allows musicians to upload their music and distribute it to major digital music stores, including Apple Music and Spotify. The platform also offers artist services, including distribution reports and a royalty calculator. Amuse has a free plan, which allows musicians to upload an unlimited number of songs, and a paid plan, which includes additional features such as advanced analytics and promotional tools.
Quick Overview
- DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby are well-established platforms with a wide range of services and a large network. They offer different pricing plans to suit the needs and budget of different types of musicians and labels.
- Symphonic Distribution is an excellent choice for musicians looking for a large distribution network.
- Amuse is a free platform that provides basic distribution services.
Strengths and Weaknesses
| Website | Strengths | Weaknesses |
| DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby | *Well-established *Significant number of reviews *Known for ease of use *Wide distribution network *Helpful customer service | *Some issues with royalties *Delayed distribution |
| Symphonic Distribution | *Newer platform *Large network *Advanced features *Excellent customer service | *More expensive |
| Amuse | *FREE *Simple pricing structure | *Distribution network is not extensive |
Which One Is Right for You?
When choosing the best music distribution site for your needs, it is essential to consider factors such as pricing, distribution network, features, and support. However, early on, you should consider the pricing plans as the most important. If you intend to consistently put out content, then opt for an unlimited plan. If not, take a look at the site like CD Baby where they offer a one-time fee. Overall, it’s a good idea to try out a few and compare their features to determine which one is the best fit.
Pop OFF Pick
In my opinion, your safest bet will be DistroKid. I know a lot of friends who have used it for their entire careers, and it’s just the best bang for your buck.
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