How Much Do TuneCore and RouteNote Charge?

The music industry has undergone a significant transformation over the past few decades. With the advent of digital platforms, distributing music has become much more accessible for independent artists. Two popular music distribution services, TuneCore and RouteNote, offer artists the opportunity to get their music onto major platforms. But how much do these services charge? Let's dive into the costs associated with TuneCore and RouteNote, and understand how they can benefit your music career.

Understanding Music Distribution Costs

Before we delve into the specific costs of TuneCore and RouteNote, it's essential to understand what music distribution entails. Music distribution services help artists upload their tracks to various digital streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more. This process not only ensures that your music reaches a global audience but also helps you earn royalties from streams and downloads.

TuneCore: A Breakdown of Fees

TuneCore is one of the leading digital music distribution services, catering to both independent artists and labels. Here's a breakdown of their pricing structure:

• Singles: TuneCore charges $9.99 per year for the distribution of a single track.
• Albums: The cost for distributing an album (up to 100 tracks) is $29.99 for the first year and $49.99 for each subsequent year.
• Ringtones: If you want to distribute a ringtone, TuneCore charges a one-time fee of $19.99.

In addition to these fees, TuneCore also offers additional services such as publishing administration, which helps artists collect more royalties from their compositions. The company takes a 15% commission on any royalties earned through their publishing administration service.

RouteNote: Fee Structure and Options

RouteNote offers a different pricing model compared to TuneCore, providing both free and premium distribution options. Here's a look at their offerings:

• Free Distribution: RouteNote's free distribution plan allows artists to distribute their music to major streaming platforms at no upfront cost. However, RouteNote retains 15% of the royalties earned.
• Premium Distribution: The premium distribution plan charges a fee for uploading music but allows artists to keep 100% of the royalties. The cost for premium distribution is $10 per single, $20 per EP, and $30 per album.

RouteNote also provides additional services such as YouTube Content ID for a fee, which helps artists monetize their music on YouTube.

Comparing TuneCore and RouteNote

When deciding between TuneCore and RouteNote, it's essential to consider your budget, goals, and the level of control you want over your royalties. TuneCore's annual fees might be seen as a more significant upfront investment, but artists retain 100% of their royalties. On the other hand, RouteNote's free option is attractive for those starting out or testing the waters, though it comes with a royalty split.

The Importance of Music Distribution Platforms

Regardless of which service you choose, using a reputable music distribution platform is crucial for your career. These services provide a gateway to global audiences, ensuring your music is available on all major streaming platforms. Effective distribution can significantly boost your visibility, helping you gain new fans and increase your income through streams and downloads.

When you're ready to take the next step in your music career, consider registering as an artist with SoundOn, an all-in-one platform for marketing and distribution. SoundOn can help elevate your career, connecting you with new fans through platforms like TikTok, exclusive partners (CapCut), and other digital streaming platforms. Sign up with SoundOn and start advancing your music career today.

Conclusion

Choosing the right music distribution service is a significant decision for any artist. Both TuneCore and RouteNote offer valuable tools and services to get your music heard. By understanding the costs and benefits of each platform, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals and financial situation. Remember, effective distribution is just one piece of the puzzle—pairing it with strategic promotion and engagement with fans can propel your music career to new heights.