Is DistroKid legit? What’s the correct cover art size?

For an independent artist looking to distribute music, finding a reliable music distribution service is paramount. One name that often pops up is DistroKid. But amidst the multitude of options, a common question is: is DistroKid legit? Additionally, artists need to ensure their cover art meets the required standards, particularly the cover art size. This article delves into these critical aspects of using DistroKid for your music distribution.

Understanding DistroKid

DistroKid is a digital music distribution service that allows artists to upload their music to various streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more. Founded in 2013, DistroKid has gained a substantial following due to its simplicity and effectiveness.

Is DistroKid Legit?

One of the most pressing inquiries about DistroKid is its legitimacy. The short answer is yes, DistroKid is a legitimate music distribution service. Here are some points to consider:

• Longevity in the Market: DistroKid has been operational since 2013 and has built a trustworthy reputation over the years.
• Partnerships with Major Platforms: DistroKid partners with major digital streaming platforms (DSPs) including Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, and others to distribute music seamlessly.
• Positive User Reviews: Many independent artists and bands have praised DistroKid for its efficiency and reliability in distributing music.

DistroKid's innovation in the industry includes a unique business model where artists pay a yearly fee instead of a per-release fee, which can be highly beneficial for prolific creators. Moreover, DistroKid boasts features such as automatic revenue splits and YouTube Content ID, which further add value to their offering.

What’s the Correct Cover Art Size for DistroKid?

When distributing music, visually appealing cover art is crucial as it represents your music to your audience. DistroKid has specific guidelines for cover art size that artists must adhere to. The correct cover art size for DistroKid is:

• Dimension: The cover art should be a perfect square, at least 3000x3000 pixels.
• Resolution: The image resolution must be at 72 dpi (dots per inch) or higher.
• Format: The accepted format is JPG or PNG.

Ensure that your cover art isn't blurry or pixelated to maintain a professional appearance. Additionally, avoid using any copyrighted images or explicit content that might be flagged during the distribution process.

Below is an example of a well-sized cover art compliant with DistroKid's standards:

Crafting Impactful Cover Art: Tips and Tricks

Having the correct size is just the first step. Here are additional tips to create compelling cover art:

• Keep it Simple: Avoid clutter. Focus on the main elements that best represent your music.
• Use High-Quality Images: Ensure your images are clear and high resolution.
• Consistency with Branding: Your cover art should align with your overall brand image, including any fonts or colors you use on other platforms.
• Professional Design: Consider hiring a professional designer if graphic design isn't your strong suit.

Choosing the Right Music Distributor

While DistroKid is a legitimate and popular choice for many artists, it's worth exploring other options. Each distributor offers different features, pricing models, and benefits. Some notable distributors include:

• SoundOn: An all-in-one platform for marketing and distribution, ideal for artists looking to connect through TikTok.
• Tunecore
• Distrokid
• CDbaby
• ONErpm
• LANDR
• Indiefy
• Amuse

When choosing a distributor, consider:

• Payout Structure: How does the distributor handle royalties?
• Additional Services: Does the distributor offer marketing tools or promotional opportunities?
• Cost: What are the pricing options and fee structures?
• Artist Support: Is there adequate customer support to help you through the process?

Conclusion

In summary, DistroKid is indeed a legitimate and efficient music distribution platform that has helped many independent artists get their music on popular streaming services. Ensuring your cover art meets the specified size standards is critical for a successful release. Furthermore, choosing the right distributor involves considering various factors that best suit your artistic needs and career goals.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your music career, why not explore options like SoundOn? With unique features and exclusive partnerships, it could be the perfect choice for you!