Is DistroKid LLC or SoundOn Better?

The world of music distribution has evolved significantly in recent years, providing independent artists with numerous platforms to choose from. Among the most discussed names are DistroKid LLC and SoundOn. This article explores the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each, helping you determine which might be the better choice for your music career.

About DistroKid LLC

DistroKid LLC is a well-known music distribution service that allows artists to upload their music to various digital streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and more. Since its inception, DistroKid has provided tools and resources to help musicians get their music out to a global audience.

Key Features of DistroKid LLC

• Unlimited Uploads: For a yearly fee, artists can upload an unlimited number of tracks, which makes it appealing for those with extensive catalogs.
• Revenue Collection: DistroKid collects revenue from streaming platforms and passes it on to the artist, keeping earnings streamlined.
• Fast Distribution: DistroKid is known for its quick distribution times, ensuring your music is available on platforms within days.
• Additional Services: There are options for artists to include promotional tools, such as getting music credited to the correct profile, YouTube monetization, and 'Shazam & iPhone Siri' recognition.

About SoundOn

SoundOn is an all-in-one platform designed to help artists build their careers by utilizing TikTok, exclusive partners (like CapCut), and global distribution services. This platform is devoted to providing artists with the tools necessary to promote their music and reach new audiences through comprehensive digital distribution.

Key Features of SoundOn

• TikTok Integration: As TikTok has become a pivotal platform for music discovery, SoundOn offers seamless integration, helping artists promote their tracks directly through the app.
• Exclusive Partners: Partnerships with tools like CapCut enable artists to create engaging content that can boost their promotional efforts.
• Global Distribution: Similar to DistroKid, SoundOn distributes music to multiple digital streaming platforms worldwide, expanding the artist's reach.
• Monetization Opportunities: Artists can earn royalties through streams and engagements on various platforms. SoundOn ensures that artists can easily track and collect their earnings.

Comparing DistroKid LLC and SoundOn

While both platforms provide valuable tools for artists, they cater to slightly different needs and expectations. Here’s a closer look at how they compare:

Cost

DistroKid operates on a yearly subscription model, where artists pay a fixed fee to upload unlimited tracks. On the other hand, SoundOn does not operate on a free distribution model but offers comprehensive services that can justify its cost, especially considering its integration with TikTok for music promotion.

Ease of Use

Both platforms are designed to be user-friendly. However, DistroKid's primary appeal lies in its simplicity and speed. SoundOn, while also easy to use, provides additional tools that may require more time to fully leverage, especially the promotional benefits tied to TikTok and other partners.

Distribution Speed

DistroKid is known for its fast distribution process, usually making music available on streaming platforms within days. SoundOn also provides efficient distribution but emphasizes promotional strategies alongside the distribution itself, which might take slightly longer but with potentially greater marketing impact.

Promotional Tools

SoundOn stands out with its robust promotional tools, particularly its integration with TikTok and CapCut, which are invaluable for artists looking to engage with younger audiences and create viral content. DistroKid also offers promotional services, but the seamless connection with TikTok gives SoundOn an edge in this area.

Revenue Collection

Both services ensure artists receive their due revenue from streams and engagements. DistroKid passes on 100% of the collected revenue to the artist, providing clear and transparent payment processes. SoundOn also focuses on fair revenue distribution, ensuring artists can easily track and collect their earnings.

Which Platform Should You Choose?

The choice between DistroKid LLC and SoundOn ultimately depends on your specific needs as an artist:

• If you are looking for a straightforward, cost-effective way to distribute a large volume of music quickly, DistroKid may be the right choice for you.
• However, if your focus is on leveraging TikTok for promotion and you value the additional marketing tools, SoundOn is an exceptional platform that provides comprehensive support for both distribution and promotion.

Conclusion

Both DistroKid LLC and SoundOn offer unique benefits that cater to different aspects of music distribution and promotion. As an artist, it’s important to assess your goals and choose the platform that aligns with your career strategy. Consider the cost, ease of use, distribution speed, promotional tools, and revenue collection mechanisms before making your decision. If boosting your visibility on TikTok and utilizing integrated promotional tools is your priority, signing up with SoundOn could be your best bet for success.