How Long Does DistroKid Take to Upload?

For independent artists eager to share their music with the world, timing can be everything. One of the most frequently asked questions is: "How long does DistroKid take to upload?" This question is vital because the answer can impact an artist's promotional strategy and release schedule.

Understanding DistroKid's Upload Process

DistroKid is known for its user-friendly interface and relatively fast upload process. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for your music to be available on various digital streaming platforms (DSPs) like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

However, several factors can impact this timeline:

• Quality Check: Each DSP has its quality control standards, and they will check for issues such as duplicate submissions, audio quality, and metadata accuracy before approving your music for release.
• Release Date: If you set a specific release date, your music will go live on that date, provided it passes the quality checks in time.
• DSP Processing Time: Some platforms process uploads faster than others. For instance, Spotify and Apple Music typically process submissions within 24-48 hours, while smaller platforms may take a little longer.
• Holidays and Weekends: Submissions made during holidays and weekends might experience slight delays due to reduced staff and increased submission volumes.

Steps to Ensure a Smooth Upload Process

To minimize delays and ensure your music is available when you want it to be, follow these steps:

1. Plan Ahead: Upload your music well in advance of your desired release date. This allows time for any unforeseen issues to be resolved.
2. Double-Check Your Metadata: Ensure all metadata (such as song titles, artist names, and album artwork) is accurate and correctly formatted.
3. Adhere to Quality Standards: Make sure your audio files meet the quality standards required by the DSPs.
4. Monitor Your Submission: Regularly check the status of your submission and promptly address any issues that may arise.

Adding Users to DistroKid

Another common question is how to add users to a DistroKid account. This feature is particularly useful for bands, co-producers, or anyone collaborating on a music project who needs access to the account.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a User

Here’s how you can add users to a DistroKid account:

1. Log in to your DistroKid account.
2. Go to "Settings" from the main dashboard.
3. Click on "Add Team Members" or similar option available.
4. Enter the email addresses of the users you want to add.
5. Assign roles and permissions as needed (e.g., Admin, Editor, Viewer).
6. Click "Send Invites" to notify the users.

Once the users accept the invitations, they will have access to the DistroKid account according to the permissions you’ve set. This streamlined process makes it easy to involve all stakeholders in the music release process.

Exploring Other Music Distribution Platforms

While DistroKid is a popular choice for many artists, it's always good to explore other platforms to see which best suits your needs. Platforms like TuneCore, CDBaby, ONErpm, LANDR, and SoundOn also offer competitive services. However, it’s essential to understand that SoundOn has a unique edge in global distribution through TikTok and exclusive partnerships like CapCut, which can significantly boost your music's reach.

I would highly recommend giving SoundOn a try, especially if you’re looking for a robust marketing and distribution platform that can help you build a career and find new fans. To get started as a SoundOn artist, you can register here.

Conclusion

Understanding the timeframes and processes involved in music distribution can help you better plan your releases and avoid unnecessary stress. While DistroKid offers a relatively quick and straightforward upload process, make sure all your information is accurate and that you upload well in advance. Additionally, the ability to add users to your account provides flexibility for collaborative projects. Exploring other distribution platforms like SoundOn can also offer you more opportunities to reach a global audience. Happy releasing!