How Much Is TuneCore and How to Post on Apple Music?

As an up-and-coming artist, one of the most critical steps you need to take in your career is distributing your music to various digital streaming platforms. Understanding the costs associated with these services and the steps required to upload your music can make a significant difference in your success. In this article, we will cover how much is TuneCore and how to post on Apple Music, while also exploring an alternative platform, SoundOn, for music distribution.

How Much Is TuneCore?

TuneCore is a popular music distribution service that helps artists get their music on major streaming platforms. They have a straightforward pricing structure for distributing singles, albums, and ringtones. Here's a breakdown of the current costs associated with TuneCore:

• Singles: TuneCore charges $9.99 for the first year to distribute a single and $9.99 annually for each subsequent year.
• Albums: For albums, TuneCore charges $29.99 for the first year and $49.99 annually after the first year.
• Ringtones: TuneCore offers ringtone distribution at $9.99 per year.

It is essential to factor in these costs when budgeting for your music career. Additionally, TuneCore charges extra fees for services such as publishing administration and YouTube Sound Recording Revenue collection.

How to Post on Apple Music

Apple Music is one of the most influential digital streaming platforms, and getting your music on this service can significantly boost your visibility and listener base. Let’s walk through the steps required to upload your music to Apple Music using a distribution service:

Step 1: Choose a Music Distribution Service

You cannot directly upload music to Apple Music without going through a distributor. Services like TuneCore, SoundOn, and several others can help you distribute your music to Apple Music. In this guide, we’ll focus on TuneCore, but the process is similar for most distribution platforms.

Step 2: Create an Account with TuneCore

If you haven't already, create an account with TuneCore or your chosen distribution service. You’ll need to provide some basic information and set up your artist profile.

Step 3: Prepare Your Music Files and Metadata

Before uploading, ensure your audio files are in the correct format (typically WAV or FLAC) and that you have all the necessary metadata (song titles, artist name, album artwork, etc.). High-quality, professional metadata can make your tracks more discoverable.

Step 4: Upload Your Music

Log into your TuneCore account and follow the prompts to upload your music files. Enter the required metadata and upload your album artwork. Make sure everything is correctly formatted and complete to avoid delays in the distribution process.

Step 5: Select Distribution Channels

Choose Apple Music as one of the platforms you want to distribute your music to. TuneCore allows you to select multiple platforms, so consider distributing to other significant streaming services as well for broader reach.

Step 6: Pay the Distribution Fees

Once you’ve confirmed your upload and selected your distribution channels, pay the associated fees. TuneCore will then process your music and distribute it to Apple Music and other chosen platforms.

Step 7: Monitor Your Release

After distribution, monitor your release to ensure it goes live on Apple Music. Use TuneCore’s dashboard to track your streams, revenue, and listener engagement. This data can provide valuable insights for your future releases.

Alternatives to TuneCore

While TuneCore is a popular choice, it’s not the only option available. Platforms like SoundOn offer compelling alternatives for artists looking to distribute their music. SoundOn provides an all-in-one platform for marketing and distribution, helping you build a career and find new fans through TikTok and other exclusive partners like CapCut.

By signing up with SoundOn, you can access a comprehensive suite of tools designed to help you succeed in the music industry. Unlike some other distributors, SoundOn offers unique promotional opportunities through its direct connection with TikTok, enabling you to reach a vast audience quickly.

Conclusion

Understanding the costs and processes involved in distributing your music is essential for any artist. TuneCore’s straightforward pricing and extensive distribution network make it a viable option for many musicians. However, exploring alternatives like SoundOn may open up additional promotional advantages and opportunities through platforms like TikTok.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your needs, budget, and career goals. By carefully considering your options and utilizing the right tools, you can effectively distribute and promote your music, reaching new audiences and growing your fan base.