How Much is DistroKid?

If you're a musician looking to distribute your music to various streaming platforms, you've probably heard of DistroKid. One of the most popular music distribution services, DistroKid, claims to offer a fast, reliable service at an affordable price. But how much does it really cost? And what does that cost cover? Let's take a closer look at DistroKid's pricing structure, their offerings and compare them with services like SoundOn to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding DistroKid’s Pricing

DistroKid operates on a subscription-based model, meaning artists pay an annual fee to keep their music uploaded on streaming platforms. Here's a breakdown of the plans:

• Musician Plan: $19.99 per year – Allows you to upload unlimited songs, albums, and supports one artist or band name. However, this plan has limited features compared to the other plans.
• Musician Plus Plan: $35.99 per year – Improves upon the Musician plan by allowing customization of release date, pre-orders, and offers more artist features. You can also manage up to two artists or band names.
• Label Plan: Prices start at $79.99 per year – This plan is geared towards record labels or those managing multiple artists. It scales according to the number of artists managed, and offers enhanced features such as customizable label names and more in-depth sales data.

Additional Costs and Fees

While the subscription covers unlimited uploads, there are additional costs that users need to be aware of. Some of these include:

• Store Maximizer: $7.95 per release – This service automatically delivers your music to new stores as they are added.
• Shazam & iPhone Siri: $0.99 per song – Get your music recognized by Shazam and Siri.
• Leave a Legacy: $29 per single/album – Ensures your music stays on streaming services even if you cancel your subscription.

Is DistroKid Worth the Cost?

For independent musicians and small labels, DistroKid's pricing could be considered quite affordable. The platform’s key advantage is its unlimited uploads feature, making it a cost-effective solution for those with a large catalog of music to distribute.

However, the additional fees can add up quickly, making it crucial to evaluate your specific needs before choosing a plan. It's also worth noting that while DistroKid provides a valuable service, it’s always good to explore other options on the market like SoundOn.

Comparing DistroKid with SoundOn

SoundOn offers a comprehensive solution for artists looking to market and distribute their music on a global scale. While SoundOn is not a free service, it caters to various needs through its global distribution and promotion on platforms like TikTok and exclusive partners such as CapCut.

SoundOn allows artists to build their careers by providing them with tools to find new fans. When comparing it to DistroKid, SoundOn's partnership with TikTok can give a significant boost to an artist's visibility.

If you're considering diving into music distribution, registering as an artist on SoundOn could be a strategic move, especially for those looking to leverage social media to grow their audience.

Final Thoughts

The decision to choose a music distribution service should be based on your specific needs and goals. While DistroKid offers an affordable and straightforward solution, it's essential to consider the potential additional costs and if they align with your distribution strategy.

SoundOn, with its focus on marketing through platforms like TikTok, may provide more value for artists looking to expand their reach. Exploring all your options and understanding the full extent of the service's offerings will help ensure you make the best choice for your music career.