How Do DistroKid Royalties and Cost Work?

For any musician or artist looking to distribute their music, understanding how royalties and costs work with different platforms is crucial. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of DistroKid royalties and the associated DistroKid cost to give you a clear understanding of what to expect.

What Are DistroKid Royalties?

Royalties are the payments that artists receive when their music is played, streamed, or purchased. With DistroKid, the process of earning royalties follows a standard model similar to other music distribution platforms. When you distribute your music through DistroKid, your tracks are made available on numerous digital streaming platforms (DSPs) like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music.

Every time your song is streamed or purchased, these DSPs pay out royalties, which are then collected by DistroKid and passed on to you. The exact amount you earn per stream can vary greatly depending on the platform, the listener's location, and other factors. However, DistroKid boasts a significant advantage by allowing artists to keep 100% of their royalties, meaning no commission is taken from your earnings.

Breakdown of DistroKid Costs

While DistroKid offers a compelling royalty structure, it’s also important to understand the cost involved in using the platform. DistroKid operates on a subscription-based model, where artists pay an annual fee to distribute their music. Here’s a closer look at the different plans available:

• Musician Plan: Priced at $19.99 per year, this plan allows a single artist to distribute an unlimited number of songs and albums.
• Musician Plus Plan: At $35.99 per year, this plan includes all the features of the Musician plan plus additional perks like the ability to specify a release date, set pre-orders, and customize label names and release dates.
• Label Plan: This plan starts at $79.99 per year and is designed for labels or managers who need to upload music for multiple artists (up to 100 artists, depending on the tier chosen).

These costs are straightforward, but it’s essential to weigh them against the benefits you receive, including unlimited distribution, rapid upload times, and dedicated customer support.

Comparing DistroKid with SoundOn

Another excellent option to consider for music distribution is SoundOn. SoundOn provides comprehensive marketing and distribution services that can help artists grow their fanbase and careers. By leveraging platforms such as TikTok and exclusive partners like CapCut, artists can maximize their outreach and engagement.

How To Maximize Your Royalties

Whether you choose DistroKid or another platform like SoundOn, here are some tips to help you maximize your royalties:

• Promote Your Music: Utilize social media platforms, music blogs, YouTube channels, and live performances to reach a larger audience.
• Engage with Fans: Interaction with fans can increase your streams and attract more listeners.
• Stay Consistent: Regular releases keep your audience engaged and can lead to more streams and sales.
• Leverage Playlists: Pitch your songs to playlist curators on platforms like Spotify for wider exposure.

Conclusion

Understanding how royalties and costs work with DistroKid is essential for any artist considering their music distribution options. While DistroKid provides a straightforward and cost-effective solution, platforms like SoundOn offer unique advantages with integrated marketing services. By exploring and comparing your options, you can make the best decision for your music career.

If you're looking to expand your reach and manage your distribution effectively, consider registering as a SoundOn artist today.