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Many prominent players in the digital distribution space offer musicians different avenues to share their music with a global audience. Upcoming artists use platforms like DistroKid, UnitedMasters, TuneCore, CD Baby and others nowadays. Each platform has benefits, so you have to see what suits the artist's needs to get the most out of it.
Choosing the correct distribution platform for an artist's needs is important because all their music will be released and tracked there. While they share similarities, each platform has distinctive features and pricing structures. Here are some elements to consider:
Pricing Models And Revenue Sharing
Some platforms, like DistroKid, operate on a subscription model with an annual fee, providing unlimited uploads. This model is beneficial for prolific artists who release music frequently.
Meanwhile others, like UnitedMasters, operate on a freemium model, allowing artists to distribute their music for free while taking a percentage of the revenue generated. There is also a paid subscription option for additional features.
Speed Of Distribution
Some platforms prioritize quicker distribution than others. With rapid distribution, music typically reaches major streaming platforms within days of submission.
Collaboration
If you are part of a band or work with other artists frequently, you may want to consider a platform that facilitates easy revenue splitting for collaborators. Some platforms also provide opportunities for artists to leverage their music in partnerships and brand deals.
Monetization And Royalties
Many platforms provide direct monetization opportunities for artists beyond traditional revenue streams, including opportunities for sync licensing and brand partnerships. Other opportunities include YouTube Content ID, which allows artists to monetize their music on YouTube through ad revenue and sync placements.
Some platforms support a comprehensive royalty collection, covering various revenue streams such as streaming and downloads.
Social Media Opportunities
For those with a social media presence, look for integrated features that allow artists to distribute their music seamlessly on social media platforms. For example, DistroKid offers HyperFollow, allowing artists to create personalized landing pages for their releases with links to streaming platforms and social media.
Artists should be looking for features that pertain to their business. Utilizing link-in-bio links to bring in a more targeted audience can pertain directly to professionalism. Your audience is on your page because they are interested in what you do so you have to focus on making navigation as simple as possible. If you have a hot new single, then put that in your bio. I've witnessed people release a new song and they don't provide the link correctly. This is where you miss listeners because people will not go through the trouble to find the correct link unless you're somewhat on the higher end of celebrity.
Simple strategies like uploading stories and consistent posts to build hype also go a long way. Make people more aware of who you are. Surprise dropping music in 2024 does not work.
Analytics And Data
Look for a platform that provides detailed analytics to help artists understand how their music performs on different platforms. Data insights can help artists understand their audience and engage with fans more effectively. You may also want to consider whether the plaform offers a mobile application, making it easier for artists to check revenue and status of uploads.
Artist Rights
For those who prioritize control over their music, pay attention to who owns the master recordings on each platform. I think one of the key differentiators for UnitedMasters is its emphasis on artist retention of rights. Artists maintain ownership of their master recordings, a feature that aligns with a more artist-centric ethos.
Each distribution platform has its strengths, and the choice between them depends on the specific needs and priorities of the artist. Factors such as pricing structure, control over rights and additional monetization opportunities should be considered in making an informed decision.
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