How Does DistroKid Work?

The music industry has evolved dramatically with the rise of digital platforms, making it easier than ever for artists to distribute their music globally. One popular service that has gained significant traction is DistroKid. If you’re an artist looking to understand how DistroKid works, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know, from music distribution to royalty collection.

What is DistroKid?

DistroKid is a music distribution service that enables independent musicians to upload their songs and release them on various digital streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more. Founded in 2013, DistroKid has become a favored choice due to its user-friendly interface and cost-effective pricing model.

How to Get Started with DistroKid

Getting started with DistroKid is relatively straightforward:

1. Sign Up: Create an account on DistroKid’s platform. You’ll need to choose a subscription plan based on your requirements, whether you’re an individual artist, a band, or a record label.
2. Upload Your Music: Once registered, you can start uploading your tracks. DistroKid supports various audio file formats, ensuring high-quality uploads.
3. Enter Metadata: Fill in your track details, including song title, artist name, album artwork, release date, and genre. Accurate metadata is crucial for ensuring your music is correctly categorized on streaming platforms.
4. Distribution: After completing the upload and metadata entry, DistroKid will distribute your music to your selected streaming platforms. This process typically takes a few days to a week.

Additional Features and Benefits

DistroKid offers several features that enhance the artist experience:

• Automatic Splits: If your track involves multiple contributors, you can set up automatic revenue splits to ensure everyone gets their fair share.
• HyperFollow: Create a pre-release page for your upcoming release, allowing fans to pre-save your music on Spotify.
• Social Media Integration: Easily share your music on social media platforms with DistroKid’s integrated tools.
• Cover Song Licensing: DistroKid can help you legally get the necessary licenses for cover songs.

Earning Royalties

One of the most significant benefits of using DistroKid is its royalty collection system. Here’s how it works:

• Streaming Revenue: Each time your song is streamed on platforms like Spotify or Apple Music, you earn a portion of the revenue generated.
• Download Revenue: When fans purchase your tracks on platforms like iTunes, you earn royalties from those sales.
• Sync Licensing: DistroKid also helps you earn royalties via sync licensing if your music is used in TV shows, films, or commercials.

Pricing Plans

DistroKid’s pricing plans are designed to accommodate various artist needs:

• Musician Plan: Ideal for solo artists, this plan allows unlimited song uploads for a yearly fee.
• Musician Plus: This plan offers additional customization options, such as setting release dates and pricing, for a slightly higher fee.
• Label Plan: Suitable for labels or managers, this plan supports multiple artists under one account.

Conclusion

DistroKid simplifies the music distribution process, making it accessible for independent artists to share their music globally. By offering a range of features, from revenue splits to social media integration and sync licensing, DistroKid provides a comprehensive solution for musicians looking to grow their careers.

If you're ready to take your music to the next level, consider exploring platforms like SoundOn, which offers an all-in-one marketing and distribution platform to build your career further. Sign up here to get started.