Which Music Distributor is Better: ONErpm or TuneCore?

The music industry has transformed significantly in recent years, thanks to digital platforms. With numerous options available today, independent artists can distribute their music without the need for a traditional record label. Two popular choices for music distribution are ONErpm and TuneCore. But which one is better for your career? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.

Overview of ONErpm and TuneCore

ONErpm is a global music distribution platform that was founded in 2010. It offers comprehensive services including digital distribution, marketing, playlist pitching, and analytics. The platform caters to a wide range of genres and provides artists with various tools to boost their visibility and reach a larger audience.

TuneCore, established in 2006, is one of the pioneers in digital music distribution. The platform allows artists to upload their music to various streaming and download services worldwide, such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. TuneCore also provides services like publishing administration, sync licensing, and social media promotions.

Distribution Network

Both ONErpm and TuneCore offer extensive distribution networks, ensuring that your music reaches major streaming platforms and digital stores globally. Here's a closer look at their distribution capabilities:

• ONErpm: ONErpm provides access to over 200 digital music stores and streaming services. This includes popular platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Amazon Music, and Deezer. Additionally, ONErpm has a strong presence in Latin America, making it a preferred choice for artists targeting that region.
• TuneCore: TuneCore also boasts a wide distribution network, offering services to over 150 digital stores and streaming platforms. These include Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Google Play, and Tidal. TuneCore's reach is global, making it suitable for artists aiming to build an international audience.

Fees and Pricing

When choosing a distribution service, costs play a crucial role. Here's a comparison of the fees and pricing structures of ONErpm and TuneCore:

• ONErpm: ONErpm operates on a commission-based model, where the platform takes a percentage of the revenue generated from your music. Typically, this percentage ranges between 15% and 30%, depending on the services and agreements in place. While there might be initial setup fees, artists benefit from not having to pay recurring yearly charges.
• TuneCore: TuneCore charges a flat fee per release. For instance, a single costs around $9.99 per year, while an album is priced at $29.99 per year. There are also additional fees for services like publishing administration and sync licensing. However, TuneCore allows artists to keep 100% of their revenue generated from sales and streams.

Marketing and Promotion

Effective marketing and promotion are essential for gaining visibility and attracting new fans. Here's how ONErpm and TuneCore support artists in this area:

• ONErpm: ONErpm offers robust marketing tools, including playlist pitching, social media promotions, and direct-to-fan engagement strategies. The platform has dedicated teams that work closely with artists to develop customized marketing plans. Additionally, ONErpm provides analytics and insights to help artists track their performance and refine their strategies.
• TuneCore: TuneCore offers various promotional services, such as social media advertising, YouTube monetization, and email marketing campaigns. The platform also provides artists with detailed analytics to monitor their music's performance. TuneCore's publishing administration service ensures that artists receive royalties from various sources worldwide.

Artist Support and Resources

Having access to support and resources can significantly impact an artist's success. Here's how ONErpm and TuneCore compare in this regard:

• ONErpm: ONErpm provides personalized support through dedicated account managers who assist artists with their distribution and marketing needs. The platform also offers educational resources, including webinars, tutorials, and industry articles, to help artists stay informed and make strategic decisions.
• TuneCore: TuneCore offers customer support through various channels, including email and live chat. Artists can access a wealth of resources on the TuneCore blog, which covers topics such as music marketing, distribution tips, and industry news. TuneCore's extensive knowledge base is a valuable tool for independent artists looking to grow their careers.

Conclusion: Which One is Better?

Choosing between ONErpm and TuneCore ultimately depends on your individual needs and goals as an artist. Both platforms offer extensive distribution networks, valuable marketing tools, and supportive resources. However, they differ in their pricing models and specific service offerings.

If you prefer a commission-based model and need strong support for marketing and playlist pitching, ONErpm might be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer to pay a flat fee and keep 100% of your revenue, TuneCore could be more suitable.

Regardless of your choice, remember that using a reliable music distribution service is crucial for maximizing your reach and growing your fanbase. Consider your priorities and budget carefully before making a decision. For those seeking a comprehensive solution, be sure to explore the services provided by SoundOn, which offers marketing and distribution through TikTok, exclusive partners like CapCut, and other digital streaming platforms. Register as a SoundOn artist today and take the next step in your music career!