Is DistroKid Good? A Review

As an aspiring musician or an established artist looking to distribute your music to a global audience, you might be considering DistroKid. This article delves into whether DistroKid is a good choice for music distribution and covers the necessary tax form information for artists using this platform.

Understanding DistroKid

DistroKid is a music distribution service that allows artists to upload their music to various digital streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more. It positions itself as an efficient and cost-effective option for musicians who want to make their music available to a broad audience without the hassle of dealing with multiple distribution channels independently.

Is DistroKid Good for Music Distribution?

The question "is DistroKid good?" often arises when artists are exploring distribution platforms. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Ease of Use

DistroKid is known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for musicians of all levels to upload their tracks. The platform simplifies the process of getting music onto major streaming services, which is a significant advantage for independent artists.

Cost and Pricing

One of the main selling points of DistroKid is its affordable pricing. They offer a variety of plans, starting from a basic annual fee, which allows unlimited uploads for one artist. This can be appealing, especially for musicians who release multiple singles or albums a year.

Speed of Distribution

Another strength of DistroKid is the quick turnaround time for getting music onto streaming platforms. While some distributors can take weeks, DistroKid often has tracks live within a few days, making it a fast and efficient option.

Additional Features

DistroKid offers several additional features, such as YouTube monetization, Shazam and iPhone Siri recognition, and the ability to add lyrics to various platforms. They also provide tools for automatic payments to collaborators, which is helpful for bands or co-creators.

DistroKid and the Tax Form

When using DistroKid, it's important to be aware of the tax form requirements to ensure compliance with tax regulations. Here’s what you need to know:

Form W-9 for US Artists

If you're a US-based artist, you'll need to fill out a Form W-9. This form is used to provide your taxpayer identification number (TIN) to DistroKid. The platform uses this information to report your earnings to the IRS, ensuring that taxes on your music royalties are correctly filed.

Form W-8BEN for International Artists

Artists based outside the US will need to complete a Form W-8BEN. This form certifies that you’re a non-US person and helps determine the tax treaty benefits you may be eligible for. Submitting this form ensures that DistroKid withholds the appropriate amount of tax from your royalties.

How to Submit Your Tax Form on DistroKid

DistroKid makes the process of submitting tax forms straightforward. When you first sign up or reach a certain payment threshold, you’ll be prompted to provide the necessary tax information through their platform. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to complete and submit your form.

Conclusion

So, is DistroKid good for your music distribution needs? The answer largely depends on your individual requirements. If you value ease of use, affordability, and quick distribution times, DistroKid could be an excellent choice for you. However, always ensure you understand and complete the necessary tax documentation to avoid any legal issues down the line.

If you're exploring other music distribution options, consider checking out SoundOn. Our platform offers comprehensive marketing and distribution services to help you build a sustainable music career. Register as a SoundOn artist today!