How Long Does DistroKid Take to Upload to Spotify?

As an independent artist, getting your music on Spotify is critical for reaching a global audience. One question on the minds of many artists using DistroKid is, "How long does DistroKid take to upload to Spotify?" Additionally, many musicians find themselves comparing distribution platforms like CD Baby and DistroKid. In this article, we’ll provide detailed insights into uploading times, features, and the benefits of each platform.

Understanding the Upload Process

Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand how the upload process works for digital streaming platforms (DSPs) like Spotify.

When you upload your music via a distributor, a few stages are involved:

1. Submission: You submit your music and metadata (track title, artist, album details, etc.) to the distributor.
2. Processing: The distributor processes your submission and checks for any errors or issues.
3. Delivery: The distributor sends your music to Spotify and other DSPs.
4. Approval and Release: Spotify and other DSPs review, approve, and schedule your release.

DistroKid Upload Time to Spotify

One of the primary concerns for artists using DistroKid is knowing how long it will take for their music to appear on Spotify after they hit submit. On average, DistroKid takes 1-2 days to process and deliver your music to Spotify. However, it's essential to allow up to a week for your release to ensure it appears correctly and on time.

This quick turnaround time is one of the advantages of using DistroKid, appealing to artists eager to release their music promptly. Additionally, DistroKid offers a “HyperFollow” feature, allowing you to promote your track before its official release date.

CD Baby vs. DistroKid: A Comprehensive Comparison

Choosing the right music distribution platform can be a game-changer for your music career. Here's a detailed comparison of CD Baby vs. DistroKid:

1. Pricing

• CD Baby: Charges per album or single. $9.95 for a single, $29 for a standard album.
• DistroKid: Offers subscription-based pricing, starting at $19.99 per year for unlimited uploads.

2. Distribution Speed

• CD Baby: Typically takes 1-2 weeks for full processing and delivery to DSPs.
• DistroKid: Known for its swift processing, averaging 1-2 days for Spotify delivery.

3. Additional Features

• CD Baby: Provides physical distribution options, sync licensing, and global publishing administration.
• DistroKid: Offers HyperFollow, Spotify pre-saves, and integrates with promotional tools like TikTok, SoundOn.

4. Royalties and Payout

• CD Baby: Takes a 9% commission on digital sales but offers a one-time fee for lifetime distribution.
• DistroKid: Artists keep 100% of their royalties, paying only the annual subscription fee.

Both platforms have unique advantages. While CD Baby offers a comprehensive service package, including physical distribution and global publishing, DistroKid stands out for its speed and simplicity, particularly for digital distribution meant to be processed and live quickly.

Enhancing Your Upload with SoundOn

Regardless of which platform you choose, leveraging additional tools for music promotion is crucial. SoundOn helps artists build their careers by distributing their music globally and offering promotion through exclusive partners like TikTok and CapCut. The integration with major DSPs ensures your music reaches a wide audience efficiently.

Conclusion

When deciding between DistroKid and CD Baby, consider your specific needs, the speed of release, and the additional services each platform offers. While DistroKid's fast upload time to Spotify is a significant advantage for digital-only releases, CD Baby's array of services might be more suitable for artists seeking both digital and physical distribution. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your goals as an artist.

Ready to take your music career to the next level? Register as a SoundOn artist today and maximize your reach and promotional potential!