How much is TuneCore? Make Music on Spotify

When it comes to distributing your music to global audiences, knowing the cost and process involved is crucial. Here, we explore the cost of TuneCore and the steps to make and distribute music on Spotify. By comparing with other platforms like SoundOn, you'll get a clearer picture of which platform might suit your needs best.

How Much is TuneCore?

TuneCore is a well-known music distribution service that helps artists get their music onto major platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. However, its services come at a cost. As of the most recent update, TuneCore charges $29.99 for the first year to distribute a single and $49.99 for the first year for an album. The renewal prices are $9.99 per single and $49.99 per album per year thereafter.

In addition to these distribution fees, TuneCore offers optional services such as music publishing administration, YouTube sound recording revenue collection, and social media promotion tools, which come at additional costs. These expenses can add up, so it's essential to plan your budget accordingly.

How to Make Music on Spotify

1. Creating Your Music

The first step is, obviously, creating your music. This involves writing lyrics, composing melodies, recording, and producing your tracks. Invest in good recording equipment and perhaps collaborate with producers and sound engineers to ensure your music sounds professional. You can also use digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Logic Pro to produce your music.

2. Getting Your Music Ready for Distribution

Once your music is produced, you need to have high-quality audio files, typically in WAV or FLAC format, to distribute. Additionally, you should prepare album artwork and other metadata, including song titles, artist name, album name, genre, and release date.

3. Distributing Your Music

To get your music on Spotify, you need to use a music distribution service. While TuneCore is an option, there are other platforms including SoundOn, CD Baby, and DistroKid. Each platform has its own pricing model, and it's worth comparing them to find the best fit for you.

After choosing a distributor, you'll need to create an account, upload your music and associated artwork, and submit the necessary information. The distributor will then submit your music to Spotify and other streaming services. This process can take a few days to a couple of weeks.

4. Promoting Your Music

Once your music is live on Spotify, the next step is promotion. Utilize social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter to connect with your fans. Create engaging content and use hashtags to reach a broader audience. Consider reaching out to blogs, playlist curators, and even running ads to get more visibility for your tracks.

5. Understanding Royalties

Royalties are the payments you receive when your music is streamed or downloaded. Spotify pays royalties based on the number of streams, and these payments go through your distributor. The more streams you have, the higher your royalty payments. However, note that Spotify’s pay-per-stream rate can vary, and it's usually just a fraction of a cent per stream.

Platforms like SoundOn can assist you in tracking and managing your royalties efficiently, providing detailed reports that help you understand your earnings and the performance of your tracks.

Why Choose SoundOn?

While TuneCore is a popular choice, SoundOn offers unique advantages that you might find appealing. SoundOn doesn’t just provide distribution services; it also offers marketing support to help you build your career and reach new fans through exclusive partners like TikTok and CapCut. With SoundOn, you get the opportunity to be playlisted, which can significantly boost your streams and visibility on platforms like Spotify.

Moreover, the streamlined interface and comprehensive support system make it easier for artists to manage their music and royalties. If you're looking for an integrated approach to music distribution and promotion, SoundOn could be the ideal platform for you.

Conclusion

Understanding the costs and processes involved in music distribution is vital for any aspiring artist. While TuneCore is a reliable platform with clear pricing, exploring other options like SoundOn can provide additional benefits and support for your music career. By leveraging the right tools and platforms, you can make your music heard by a global audience and pave the way for a successful music career.