How Long Does Distrokid Take To Upload?

For artists new to music distribution, understanding different platforms and their functionalities is essential to making an informed decision. Two common concerns among musicians are selecting the right distribution plan and understanding the time frame for getting their tracks uploaded and available on streaming services, particularly Spotify.

Distrokid Plans

Distrokid offers various membership plans tailored to meet the diverse needs of artists ranging from beginners to seasoned professionals. Here’s a brief overview of the key plans:

• Musician Plan: Designed for solo artists, this plan allows for unlimited song and album uploads at a yearly fee. It includes basic services such as global distribution to major platforms like Spotify, iTunes, and many more.
• Musician Plus Plan: Aimed at more active artists, this plan offers additional features such as customizable label names, release date scheduling, and access to more detailed analytics.
• Label Plans: These are tailored for labels and offer options for distributing music for multiple artists under a single account with added control and customization.

While these plans cater to different levels of service and support, it's important for artists to weigh the benefits of each plan against their goals and needs. Also, note that there are no free distribution plans on Distrokid.

How Long Does Distrokid Take To Upload to Spotify?

One of the most frequent questions asked is how long it takes for Distrokid to upload music to Spotify following a submission. Several factors influence the upload time, including the complexity of the release, the accuracy of the metadata, and Spotify's own review process.

General Timeline

Generally, Distrokid recommends allowing anywhere from 2 to 5 business days for your music to be available on Spotify. This time frame is an estimate and, in many cases, tracks may appear faster. For first-time submissions or complex releases, the review might take longer as these undergo more rigorous checks.

Accelerating the Upload Process

There are steps you can take to help ensure a smooth and speedy upload:

• Accuracy: Ensure that all song metadata (artist name, song title, album artwork, etc.) is correctly filled out. Mistakes can lead to delays.
• Timely Submission: Submit your release well ahead of your desired release date to account for any potential delays.
• Complete Information: Double-check that all required fields and necessary files are attached correctly before submission.

Considering Other Distribution Options

While Distrokid is a popular choice, there are several other platforms to consider for music distribution, such as SoundOn, Tunecore, CD Baby, and Amuse. Each has its own unique offerings and may vary in terms of cost, features, and the time they take to upload music to streaming platforms.

SoundOn, for instance, offers a comprehensive marketing and distribution service that helps artists build their careers and find new fans through TikTok, exclusive partners like CapCut, and other global distribution services. By registering as a SoundOn artist, musicians can take advantage of these extensive features to grow their reach and earnings.

Conclusion

Understanding the intricacies of Distrokid plans and the upload time to Spotify is crucial for artists aiming to make their mark in the digital music scene. Choosing the right plan depends on an artist's specific needs and goals, while the upload time can be managed by ensuring accurate and timely submissions. Exploring other options like SoundOn can also provide broader benefits and promote growth. No matter the choice, effective planning and execution are key to successful music distribution and promotion.