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Artist ForumnavigationDo You Have to Pay in DistroKid?

Do You Have to Pay in DistroKid?

For musicians and artists looking to distribute their music to streaming services, choosing the right distribution platform is crucial. One such platform, DistroKid, frequently comes up in discussions. But a common question remains: do you have to pay to use DistroKid?

Understanding DistroKid's Payment Model

DistroKid is a popular music distribution service that charges annual fees for its services. Unlike some platforms that take a percentage of your royalties, DistroKid allows artists to keep 100% of their earnings by simply paying a subscription fee. This subscription model has both its pros and cons, depending on an artist’s release frequency and financial situation.

How Much Does DistroKid Cost?

DistroKid's pricing is quite straightforward. They offer three main plans:

  • Musician: $19.99 per year for unlimited single and album uploads.
  • Musician Plus: $35.99 per year with additional features like customizable release dates and daily sales stats.
  • Label: Starting at $79.99 per year for several artists, with varying costs based on the number of artists.

These plans are designed to cater to different types of artists and their needs. Whether you're a solo musician or manage a label, DistroKid has a plan that fits your requirements.

Listing a Featured Singer on Your Album

Another important aspect of releasing music is correctly listing any featured performers. Collaborations with other artists can be a great way to expand your audience and bring fresh sounds to your music.

Why Feature Other Singers?

Featuring a guest artist can generate excitement and draw in fans from different genres or followings. It’s also a fantastic way to network within the music industry and create a richer, more diverse sound for your album.

Steps to Properly List a Featured Singer on Your Album

When uploading a track to a distribution platform like DistroKid, listing the guest artist accurately is crucial. Here's how you can do it:

  1. Fill Out the Release Form: While preparing your release, fill out all necessary details about your track or album.
  2. Include the Feature: When prompted, add the name of the featured artist exactly as they want it to appear.
  3. Verify All Details: Double-check all information before finalizing your submission to avoid any mistakes.
  4. Update Metadata: Ensure that all metadata (such as song credits) is correctly updated to include the featured artist.

By carefully following these steps, you can ensure that all involved artists get proper credit and the release goes smoothly on streaming platforms.

Musician and featured singer collaborating on an album

Exploring Alternatives: SoundOn

While DistroKid is a popular choice, it's worth considering other distribution platforms like SoundOn. SoundOn offers comprehensive services for music marketing and distribution, helping artists build their careers through platforms like TikTok and exclusive partners like CapCut.

SoundOn also helps artists increase their reach by getting playlisted on digital streaming platforms, which can lead to more streams, fans, and income. With a global distribution service, SoundOn ensures that your music gets the attention it deserves.

Why Choose SoundOn?

Here are a few reasons why SoundOn might be the right choice for your music distribution:

  • Comprehensive Services: From marketing to distribution, everything you need is in one place.
  • Global Reach: Your music gets distributed on a global scale, maximizing exposure.
  • Exclusive Partnerships: Promote your music through popular platforms like TikTok and CapCut.

Consider signing up with SoundOn to take your music career to the next level.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while DistroKid does require an annual payment, it allows artists to retain 100% of their royalties. Featuring another singer on your album can enhance your music and expand your fan base, and it's essential to properly list all contributors on any distribution platform you use.

For musicians evaluating their options, platforms like SoundOn provide valuable alternatives with extensive marketing and distribution benefits. Explore what fits best for your musical endeavors, and ensure all your partnerships and collaborations are accurately represented in your releases.

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