Topic 08 of 16
Distribution
What Is Music Distribution?
Distribution is the process of delivering your music to streaming platforms, download stores, and other digital outlets — Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Tidal, Deezer, and hundreds more. As an independent artist, you use a digital distributor to do this.
Major Digital Distributors
| Distributor | Pricing Model | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| DistroKid | $22.99/yr (unlimited) | Fast delivery, splits feature, YouTube Content ID, keeps 100% royalties |
| TuneCore | $14.99/single, $29.99/album/yr | 100% royalties, publishing admin add-on, detailed analytics |
| CD Baby | $9.99/single, $29/album (one-time) | Sync licensing, physical distribution, 91% royalties |
| Amuse | Free tier / Pro $24.99/yr | Free option, advance funding for artists, 100% royalties on Pro |
| Distrokid White Label | Enterprise | Custom branding for labels / aggregators |
| Landr Distribution | $9/yr | Bundled with mastering, 100% royalties |
| United Masters | Free / Select $5/mo | Brand deal marketplace, 100% on Select |
What Distributors Do
- Deliver your audio files, artwork, and metadata to all partnered platforms
- Assign or collect UPC / ISRC codes (if you don't have your own)
- Collect and forward streaming royalties to you
- Provide analytics dashboards showing streams, saves, and revenue
- Some offer YouTube Content ID to monetize user uploads of your music
What distributors do NOT do
Distributors do not collect performance royalties (those go through your PRO). They do not collect publishing/mechanical royalties unless they offer a publishing admin service. You still need to register separately with your PRO.
Release Timeline
Plan your release well in advance. Platform processing times vary:
- Most platforms: 2–7 business days after submission
- Spotify editorial playlist consideration requires pitching at least 7 days before release via Spotify for Artists
- Apple Music / Apple editorial: submit 2–3 weeks early for best pitch opportunities
- Physical distribution (vinyl, CDs): 8–12 weeks minimum
Territory Selection
You can release to specific territories or worldwide. Consider:
- Worldwide release maximizes reach and royalty collection
- Territory restrictions may apply if you've licensed the song in specific markets
- Always confirm territorial rights before releasing internationally
Content ID & YouTube
YouTube Content ID scans uploaded videos for matches to your audio and allows you to monetize, track, or block infringing uses. Most distributors offer this as an add-on or include it in their service. Enable it for every release to capture video monetization revenue.
Deliver early
Set your release date at least 3 weeks out from when you submit. This gives you time to pitch to editorial playlists, schedule PR, and make corrections without panic.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is based on official sources when available. We are not affiliated with any government or legal organization. This is not legal advice.