TuneCore vs CD Baby: How to Sell Your Songs on iTunes?

The music industry has evolved significantly with the advent of digital distribution platforms. As an artist, choosing the right distributor is crucial for getting your music heard by a wider audience. In this article, we will compare two popular music distribution platforms, TuneCore and CD Baby, and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to sell your songs on iTunes.

TuneCore vs CD Baby: An Overview

TuneCore and CD Baby are two of the leading music distribution services that help artists distribute their music to various streaming platforms, including iTunes. Let's take a closer look at each platform.

TuneCore

TuneCore is a well-established music distribution service that allows artists to upload their music and distribute it to a wide range of digital stores and streaming platforms, including iTunes, Spotify, and Amazon Music. TuneCore charges an annual fee for each album or single distributed. One of the significant advantages of TuneCore is that artists retain 100% of their music sales revenue.

CD Baby

CD Baby has been a trusted name in the music distribution industry for years. It offers a one-time fee per release, with the option to choose between different distribution packages. CD Baby distributes music to various digital stores and streaming platforms, including iTunes, Apple Music, and more. Unlike TuneCore, CD Baby takes a commission on sales revenue, but it also provides a variety of additional services like CD and vinyl distribution.

How to Sell Your Songs on iTunes

Now that you have a basic understanding of TuneCore and CD Baby, let's dive into the steps you need to take to sell your songs on iTunes.

1. Choose Your Distribution Platform

Your first step is to decide whether you want to use TuneCore, CD Baby, or another distribution platform. Consider factors like cost, additional services, and revenue retention when making your decision. Both TuneCore and CD Baby have their unique advantages, so choose the one that aligns best with your goals as an artist.

2. Prepare Your Music for Distribution

Before you can upload your music to iTunes, you need to ensure it meets certain quality standards. This includes having high-quality audio files (preferably in WAV format), properly formatted metadata (such as song titles, artist names, and album artwork), and ensuring that your music is properly mastered.

3. Create an Account

If you've chosen TuneCore, you can create an account on their website. CD Baby also requires you to create an account. During the sign-up process, you'll need to provide information about yourself and your music.

4. Upload Your Music

Once you've created your account, you can start uploading your music. Both TuneCore and CD Baby provide easy-to-follow instructions for uploading your audio files, album artwork, and metadata. Make sure to double-check all information for accuracy.

5. Set Your Release Date

When uploading your music, you'll have the option to set a release date. This is the date when your music will become available on iTunes and other digital stores. Plan your release date strategically to maximize your promotional efforts.

6. Distribute Your Music

After uploading your music and setting your release date, you can proceed with the distribution process. TuneCore and CD Baby will handle the delivery of your music to iTunes and other platforms. This process may take a few days to a few weeks, so be patient.

7. Promote Your Music

Once your music is available on iTunes, it's essential to promote it effectively. Utilize social media, email marketing, and paid advertising to reach a broader audience. Consider collaborating with influencers and bloggers to gain more exposure.

Effective Music Promotion Strategies

Selling your music on iTunes is just the beginning. To ensure your music reaches its full potential, you need to implement effective promotion strategies. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter can be powerful tools for promoting your music. Engage with your audience, share behind-the-scenes content, and create teaser videos to generate excitement for your release.

2. Build an Email List

Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to reach your fans. Collect email addresses from your website, social media, and live shows, and send regular updates about your music, upcoming shows, and new releases.

3. Collaborate with Influencers

Partnering with influencers and bloggers in the music industry can help you reach a wider audience. Look for influencers who align with your music style and audience demographics.

4. Use Paid Advertising

Consider investing in paid advertising on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Google. Target your ads to reach potential fans who are likely to enjoy your music. This can help you gain more visibility and increase your sales on iTunes.

5. Engage with Your Fans

Building a loyal fan base requires consistent engagement. Respond to comments and messages, host live streams, and create interactive content to keep your fans involved and excited about your music.

Conclusion

Choosing the right music distribution platform, whether it's TuneCore or CD Baby, is a significant step in selling your songs on iTunes. By following the steps outlined in this article and implementing effective promotion strategies, you can maximize your chances of success in the music industry. Remember, building a successful music career takes time, dedication, and persistence. Stay committed to your craft, and your hard work will pay off.

If you're looking for a comprehensive platform to distribute your music and build your career, consider registering as a SoundOn artist. SoundOn offers a global distribution service, helping you find new fans and increase your streams. Register now to take your music career to the next level!