The music distribution industry has grown exponentially over the past few years, with platforms like Tunecore and Distrokid leading the charge. For artists looking to distribute their music globally, these platforms offer an array of services. However, an often overlooked but crucial aspect of any service is customer support. In this article, we will explore how Tunecore and Distrokid perform in terms of customer service.
Before diving into specifics, it’s important to understand why customer service is a significant consideration in the music distribution industry. When artists encounter issues—be it technical difficulties, payment problems, or distribution glitches—timely and effective customer support can make all the difference. Great customer service ensures that artists can focus on creating music instead of dealing with administrative hassles.
Tunecore is one of the leading platforms in music distribution, offering artists the ability to get their music on various digital stores and streaming services. So, how does Tunecore fare when it comes to customer support?
Tunecore offers support primarily through email and an extensive online help center. While this is fairly standard, the absence of live chat and phone support can be a drawback for those seeking immediate assistance. The email response time, according to multiple user reviews, ranges from 24 to 48 hours, which can be quite slow especially when urgent matters arise.
Many users have noted that the detailing in the emails is thorough, and responses are generally helpful. The online help center is comprehensive, featuring articles on a wide range of topics from uploading music to tracking sales. Despite these resources, some users feel that the lack of direct interaction channels like phone or live chat is a significant shortcoming.
According to user feedback, Tunecore's customer service excels in resolving issues related to account management, payment queries, and technical support for uploads. The detailed guides available also help in addressing common problems, but for more complex issues, the wait time for email support is a concern.
Distrokid is known for its cost-efficient distribution services and has attracted a large number of independent artists. Let's see how Distrokid's customer support measures up.
Distrokid also primarily relies on email support and a robust online FAQ section. Like Tunecore, Distrokid lacks phone support, which can be a significant drawback for those needing immediate help. However, they do offer a priority service for an additional fee, aiming to fast-track support requests.
User reviews suggest that Distrokid is efficient in handling email queries, with responses typically received within 24 hours. The FAQ section is extensive, covering a myriad of potential issues and queries that users might have. Despite the efficiency, many users find the absence of live chat and phone support unfavourable, similar to the feedback for Tunecore.
Distrokid's customer service is particularly adept at resolving issues related to music distribution, album artwork, and payment discrepancies. Their priority service is a highlight, as it provides quicker responses to pressing issues, though it comes at an extra cost.
Both Tunecore and Distrokid offer fairly similar customer service channels—primarily email and online help centers. However, the absence of phone support and live chat is a common drawback for both platforms. Here are some comparative insights:
Effective customer service is a backbone for any service provider, especially in the fast-paced world of music distribution. While Tunecore and Distrokid provide robust and informative support options through email and online resources, they both fall short in offering immediate, direct support channels like phone or live chat. However, Distrokid’s option for priority support at an additional cost provides an edge for those seeking quicker resolutions. Ultimately, the choice between the two may hinge not just on their customer service but also on other features and costs that cater to an artist's specific needs.
If you are an artist looking for a comprehensive music distribution platform that offers efficient customer service and the tools you need to succeed, consider registering as a SoundOn artist. SoundOn offers an integrated approach to music marketing and distribution, helping you build a successful music career.