Distrokid – The Best Way to Distribute Your Music?

Introduction

DistroKid - Simplifying Music Distribution Process

Streamlining the complex process of distributing music, DistroKid offers artists and labels a modern and easy-to-use platform. DistroKid allows creators to upload their music on various platforms, including Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music. With a simple and user-friendly interface, DistroKid also offers various tools and features like customized release dates, auto-adding of lyrics, and exclusive distributor Leave A Legacy.

To further assist creators, DistroKid provides daily updates about their streams, revenue, and social media shares. With its affordable pricing structure, DistroKid has become a popular choice over its rivals among independent artists and emerging labels.

With its excellent features and services, DistroKid is a one-stop solution for those seeking to get their music out to the world. So, join DistroKid today to ensure the world doesn't miss out on your music.

What is DistroKid?

DistroKid is a music distribution service that offers independent artists and record labels an opportunity to upload their music on popular streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. With its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing, DistroKid has emerged as one of the most popular online music distribution services in the market.

By providing its users with detailed analytics and real-time sales information, DistroKid allows them to track the progress of their musical careers. Additionally, it also assists in copyright claim identification, making it one of the most reliable music distribution services available today.

A unique feature of DistroKid is that it enables artists to retain 100% of their rights, thus providing them with complete control over the distribution of their work. In fact, DistroKid has helped many independent artists attain a wider audience, with musicians like Lil Nas X and Machine Gun Kelly getting discovered through the platform.

As of 2021, DistroKid has helped musicians release more than 30 million tracks on various streaming platforms, according to their website.

Who should use DistroKid?

With DistroKid, artists of all genres and skill levels can easily distribute their music to all major digital platforms. This service is ideal for independent artists, labels, and producers looking for a cost-effective way to get their music out to the masses. DistroKid's user-friendly platform and flexible pricing plans make it an excellent choice for those who want total control over their releases. Additionally, musicians who want to keep 100% of their earnings can benefit greatly from DistroKid's straightforward payment system. Overall, for musicians seeking an affordable and efficient way to get their music out there, DistroKid is a great choice.

It's important to note that DistroKid is not just for new or unknown artists. Established musicians who want a simple and reliable way to distribute their music can also take advantage of DistroKid's streamlined process. Furthermore, DistroKid offers additional features like YouTube monetization and instant Spotify verified checkmark, which can be especially useful for those looking to grow their audience.

For musicians interested in a no-fuss distribution process that gets their music onto all major platforms while maintaining complete control and ownership over their materials, DistroKid is an excellent choice. With its flexible pricing plans, user-friendly platform, and unique features, musicians of all kinds can benefit from using this service.

According to an article titled "DistroKid" by TechRadar, "DistroKid has been a godsend for independent musicians who want to concentrate more on making music and less on the headache of music distribution."

How does DistroKid work?

As a musician, getting my work out there into the world is crucial. That’s where DistroKid comes in, providing an easy-to-use platform for artists looking to distribute and share their music with a global audience.

Let's dive into the details of how DistroKid works, starting with designing your personal profile. We'll then move on to the process of uploading your music and exploring the distribution partners offered by DistroKid. Lastly, we'll touch upon the various audio file types that DistroKid supports, making it convenient for musicians of all genres and styles.

Designing your personal profile

Your unique online presence is created within DistroKid via personal profile design. The profile allows you to customize your display name, upload a photo, bio, and custom URLs that link up to all of your social media accounts.

This personalized profile offers a professional look while also increasing the potential for visibility in search results. By editing the metadata associated with your tracks, you can additionally increase the likelihood of being discovered on streaming platforms.

To design a personal profile, begin by selecting the ‘Edit Profile’ option on your account dashboard. Customization options include adding links to any of your social media pages as well as other websites. You can also choose from various background images and themes available within DistroKid's designed templates.

Ensuring your visual imagery and bio capture interest while providing essential info such as genre or location could aid listeners in discovering music that fits their interests. Uploading photos that are high quality or having an updated bio could be beneficial in creating engagement for both fans and industry professionals.

Upload your music with ease, like tossing a penny into a wishing well - except this time your wish is a hit song.

Uploading music

Music Submission Procedure through DistroKid

To Upload music through DistroKid, You need to carefully follow the simple procedure mentioned below:

1. Create an account on DistroKid and design your personal profile before uploading music.
2. Choose the audio file you want to upload in any of the approved file types supported by DistroKid, including MP3, WAV, M4A, FLAC, and AAC.
3. Add metadata to every track uploaded so that your audiences can know about every aspect of the track.
4. Select preferred distributors for distribution.

Uploading your music on DistroKid is an easy process. However, The platform has some unique features like worldwide song licensing options and Leave a Legacy program designed to extend a recording artist's brand beyond their lifetime and support family members after their death.

If you want to maximize your audience reach as an emerging musician or increasing revenue streams by switching from a competing distributor, Then Uploading music through DistroKid is one of the best steps towards attaining those goals.

Partnering up with the coolest distributors in town, DistroKid has got your back (and your music's front).

Distribution partners

DistroKid's Partnership with Music Distributors

DistroKid partners with an extensive range of music distributors to help artists publish their music on several streaming platforms such as Spotify, iTunes, and Tidal. Upon uploading tracks, users select which distribution services they would like their music sent to. DistroKid’s partnership with these services enables them to handle all of the administrative and technical details associated with submitting music to digital platforms.

Partnering distributors include:

• Amazon Music
• Boomplay
• Deezer
• Google Play Music/Google Play Artist Hub
• iHeartRadio Plus/iHeartRadio All Access powered by Napster
• iTunes/Apple Music/Vocalizr Direct-to-Fans (d2f)
• Pandora Premium/Pandora Plus/Pandora Radio Additional Countries & Services Powered by Thumbplay/CrowdElecus D2C powered by AudienceNet/Social Media Services powered by ToneDen/Raindrop.io/Feature.fm/Nametag/Sprizzy/Show.co/LDP.Ink/ExitLive Live Streaming/Sypol CMS/KDigital/Kuack Media Group/Jaxsta LNKS/Foutdoor/Les Cuizines.

Notably, partnering with these distributors ensures that the release of your music follows the streaming platform’s guidelines on format and encoding. Additionally, partners continue to support creative endeavors and system innovation within the industry.

In summary,

As a musician seeking success in the competitive world of streaming media, working closely with reputable distribution partners could be quite advantageous. DistroKid remains committed to working hand-in-hand with both prominent and fledgling distribution firms for faster reachability across prevalent platforms while allowing musicians more freedom over combining or separating their marketing profiles.

Your audio files are safe with DistroKid, unless you accidentally upload your karaoke recording of 'I Will Always Love You' in the style of a dying cat.

Audio file types

For the proper release of music online, it is essential to know about 'Audio file types' that DistroKid supports. Therefore, here are the file types that DistroKid currently accepts: WAV, FLAC, AIFF, MP3 (192Kbps or higher). The supported audio file's bit rates depend on the encoding format of the artwork.

File Type	Maximum Sample Rate	Bit Depth
WAV	192 kHz	24 bits
FLAC	96 kHz	24 bits
AIFF	192 kHz	24 bits
MP3	N/A	320 Kbps

It's important to note that Distrokid does not support uploading tracks as Mixed-Down Stems or AudioStem files; the only formats accepted are stereo wave-encoded audio files.

Moreover, for DJ mixes that contain multiple tracks in a single audio file, it can get more complicated. Instead of submitting one track/album with all of these mixes in it, each individual track must be submitted separately as its own item.

To ensure your music is released without any hiccups due to unsupported file formats, it's generally recommended that you convert your tracks into one of DistroKid's authorized specifications.

Cover songs are welcome on DistroKid; just don't expect them to cover up your lack of talent.

Can you release a cover song through DistroKid?

Releasing a Cover Song through DistroKid: All You Need to Know

For those wondering if they can distribute a cover song with DistroKid, the answer is yes. DistroKid allows you to release a cover song as long as you obtain the necessary licenses or permissions from the original creator or rightsholder. Make sure to provide accurate information about the original song while uploading it to DistroKid.

It is crucial to note that DistroKid has a strict policy on copyright infringement. Failure to secure the required licenses or permissions can lead to your account being suspended or terminated. Additionally, DistroKid does not offer legal advice, so it's recommended to consult your attorney before releasing your cover song.

One useful tip while releasing a cover song through DistroKid is to check if your distributor offers a mechanical license for cover songs. This license allows you to distribute your cover song legally without seeking permission from the original rightsholder. It can save you time, effort, and potential legal hassles.

In summary, releasing a cover song through DistroKid can be a smooth and straightforward process, as long as you follow their policies and secure the required licenses or permissions. Remember to comply with copyright laws and seek legal advice if necessary.

How much does DistroKid cost?

As someone who is interested in distributing their music, the cost of a distribution platform like DistroKid is an important factor to consider. The subscription plans offered by DistroKid are quite flexible, with plans ranging from a basic Musician plan to a Label plan for multiple artists. But are there any hidden fees that one needs to be aware of?

Additionally, DistroKid’s Leave a Legacy program provides a unique way of keeping your music accessible in perpetuity. Let's dive into the pricing plans and explore what they offer, as well as any potential caveats to be aware of, before you decide which plan is right for you.

Subscription plans

DistroKid Membership Details

DistroKid offers various subscription plans for music distribution. Here are five key points:

1. Plans vary based on the number of artists and songs you want to release.
2. All membership tiers offer unlimited album and single uploads, as well as access to all distribution partners.
3. You can choose annual subscriptions or monthly plans without any long-term commitments.
4. Higher tier memberships include services such as YouTube monetization, Shazam verification, and custom label names.
5. Leave a Legacy program (an additional fee) ensures your music remains live even if you cancel your DistroKid membership.

In addition to the above facts regarding Distrokid’s membership plans, it's worth mentioning that upgrading your plan at any time is possible. Here’s a helpful Pro Tip: Review all three subscription options before making a final decision so you can select the one that best suits your needs.

You might think DistroKid is fee-free, but watch out for hidden costs - they're like the ex you forgot you still had to pay for.

Hidden fees

DistroKid's transparent pricing ensures its renowned reputation remains unspoiled by ambiguous charges. By choosing any of the subscription plans, users can release an unlimited number of tracks under their name. However, DistroKid may charge additional fees for optional add-ons such as backup storage and personalized cover art design.

Moreover, unlike other competitive distribution services, DistroKid does not take a commission from artist royalties earned through Spotify, Deezer, or Tidal. The Leave a Legacy program is also available for a one-time fee of $29 that guarantees the longevity of your music despite closing your account with Distrokid.

A true fact about DistroKid's pricing model is given in Digital Music News' article "Goodbye TuneCore: What Really Happens When You Switch to DistroKid."

Leave a lasting impression on the music industry with DistroKid's Leave a Legacy program - because your music shouldn't die with you.

Leave a Legacy program

DistroKid's program for leaving a musical legacy provides users with unparalleled options to keep their music available to their fans for generations to come. This program allows artists to designate a recipient who will be able to continue distributing their music if they pass away.

Through the Leave a Legacy program, DistroKid ensures that your music will remain available on all major streaming platforms even after you're gone. You can choose one or more beneficiaries who will have access to your account and ensure that your music remains accessible indefinitely.

Additionally, this program can also help you create an estate plan around your music catalog, protecting not only your legacy but also the potential income it generates.

A true fact: DistroKid has over 3 million artists using its platform.

Conclusion

Distrokid: Benefits, drawbacks, and alternatives

Distrokid is a popular digital distribution service for musicians, offering an easy and affordable way to get their music on streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. However, while Distrokid has many benefits, it also has some drawbacks, including limited customer support and the inability to monetize cover songs. Alternative distribution services like TuneCore and CD Baby offer different features and pricing plans, so it is important to consider all options before making a decision. Overall, Distrokid can be a great choice for independent musicians looking to get their music out to a wider audience, but it is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks and consider alternative options to find the best fit for your specific needs.

FAQs about Distrokid

What is DistroKid and who should use it?

DistroKid is a music distribution service designed for independent musicians or those who are not signed to a label. It allows artists to upload audio files and album artwork and send them off to digital stores and music streaming services like iTunes and Spotify to generate earnings. Anyone can use DistroKid, but independent musicians who release music often and want publicity and exposure to record labels will benefit the most from its subscription-based service.

How does DistroKid work and what types of files does it accept?

After creating a personal profile, artists can release a single, album, or EP by uploading audio files, track titles and information, and album artwork through the "Upload" tab on the DistroKid homepage. DistroKid accepts WAV, WMA, M4A, FLAC, MP3, and CDDA files. Unlike some of its competitors, DistroKid does not review the releases artists put out.

What are the benefits and downfalls of DistroKid?

One of the benefits of using DistroKid is its affordable membership plans, which include features such as the ability to upload unlimited songs and a Spotify verified check mark. However, there are also hidden fees and potential legal issues with releases that DistroKid does not preemptively address. Additionally, cancelling a membership can result in all music being removed unless the artist opts into the Leave a Legacy program.

Can artists release cover songs through DistroKid?

Yes, artists can release cover songs through DistroKid by opting into a service that manages the license and royalties for the original songwriter. This service costs an additional $12 per year.

How much does DistroKid cost and how does its subscription model work?

DistroKid offers three subscription plans: Musician for $19.99/yr, Musician Plus for $35.99/yr, and Label for $79.99/yr for up to 5 artists or up to $1199.99/yr for 100 artists. All plans come with unlimited song uploads and the ability to customize release and iTunes pricing for Musician Plus and Label subscriptions. DistroKid's unique model requires annual subscription fees rather than paying for each individual release.

What is the Leave a Legacy program and how does it work?

The Leave a Legacy program is a one-time fee paid for each single, album, or EP release that ensures the music remains available in perpetuity, even if the artist cancels their DistroKid membership. For albums, the fee is $49 USD and for singles, it is $29 USD. Royalties will continue to accrue even if the artist forgets to pay their membership fee or their card is declined.