How to Use Leased Songs on DistroKid?

For musicians and artists, understanding how to efficiently use music distribution platforms like DistroKid is crucial. If you have a leased song and want to distribute it through DistroKid, this comprehensive guide explains the process. Additionally, we will dive into how much DistroKid pays per stream, providing essential insights for artists seeking to monetize their music.

What is a Leased Song?

A leased song refers to a track that you do not fully own, but have obtained permission to use commercially under specific terms. Many artists lease beats or instrumentals from producers when creating new songs. This approach is cost-effective, allowing artists to access high-quality music without the upfront costs of purchasing exclusive rights.

Steps to Upload a Leased Song on DistroKid

Follow these steps to upload your leased song on DistroKid:

1. Obtain Proper Licensing: Ensure you have a valid lease agreement that allows you to distribute the song on digital streaming platforms. Check the lease terms for any restrictions or requirements.
2. Sign Up or Log In: If you're not already a member, sign up for a DistroKid account. If you have an account, simply log in.
3. Prepare Your Audio Files: Ensure your audio files are in high-quality formats (typically WAV or FLAC) for the best distribution results.
4. Complete Metadata Information: During the upload process, fill out all required metadata, including song title, artist name, and any specific leasing information. Select the genre and language of your track.
5. Upload Your Track: Follow DistroKid's upload prompts to add your audio files and metadata. Make sure to include the necessary credits for the leased elements in your song.
6. Submit for Distribution: Review your submission details and click the appropriate button to submit your song for distribution across various digital platforms.

Understanding DistroKid Payouts

Now that your leased song is ready for distribution, let's look at how much DistroKid pays per stream. It’s important to note that DistroKid itself doesn't set payment rates - these are determined by the streaming platforms where your music will be available, such as Spotify, Apple Music, and others.

Payment Rates from Streaming Platforms

Streaming services typically pay artists per stream, with the rates varying slightly between platforms. As a rough estimate:

• Spotify: $0.003 to $0.005 per stream
• Apple Music: $0.007 to $0.01 per stream
• Amazon Music: $0.004 to $0.007 per stream

Factors Influencing Payouts

The amount you earn per stream can depend on several factors including:

• Region: Streaming rates can vary by country and region.
• Subscription Types: Payments can differ between streams from free versus premium subscribers.
• Distribution Platform Cut: Each streaming service takes a cut before paying DistroKid, which then passes the remaining amount to you.

Maximizing Your Earnings

To maximize your earnings from streams, consider the following strategies:

• Promote Widely: Use social media, email marketing, and other promotional channels to drive traffic to your music on streaming platforms.
• Playlist Placement: Pitch your songs to playlist curators for inclusion in popular playlists, significantly boosting stream counts.
• Engage with Fans: Build a loyal fanbase that will consistently stream your music.

Why Choose SoundOn?

If you're looking for a robust platform to distribute your music, consider SoundOn. Not only does SoundOn provide a global distribution service, but it also offers promotional opportunities through key partners like TikTok and CapCut. Becoming a SoundOn artist could expand your reach and increase your stream income.

Conclusion

Understanding how to effectively distribute a leased song on DistroKid and comprehending the payout structure of streaming services are vital aspects of a musician’s career. By following the steps outlined and actively promoting your music, you can optimize your earnings and grow your fanbase. Additionally, platforms like SoundOn can help elevate your music distribution strategy.