When Does DistroKid Pay for Cover Songs?

As an independent artist, navigating the world of music distribution can be challenging. One question that frequently arises is, "When does DistroKid pay its artists?" Whether you're releasing original tracks or cover songs, understanding how and when you'll receive your royalties is crucial.

DistroKid is a well-known name in music distribution, offering musicians a platform to release their songs on various digital streaming services. In this article, we'll dive into the specifics of DistroKid's payment schedule and how it handles cover songs.

DistroKid Payment Schedule

The process of getting paid through DistroKid involves several steps:

• Aggregation of Earnings: When your music is streamed or downloaded on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon, DistroKid aggregates all the earnings.
• Monthly Reports: DistroKid receives reports from these platforms, typically on a monthly basis. Once they have compiled the data, they prepare to distribute the earnings to the artists.
• Payment Timing: DistroKid usually pays out royalties within a few days after receiving the monthly reports, but this can sometimes take up to two months. For example, earnings from streams in January might be reported by the streaming services to DistroKid by the end of February, and you could expect payment by mid-March.

Understanding Cover Songs on DistroKid

Creating and distributing cover songs involves unique considerations compared to original tracks:

• Licensing: To legally distribute a cover song, you need to obtain a mechanical license. DistroKid simplifies this process by providing the necessary licenses for cover songs you distribute through their platform.
• Royalty Distribution: When it comes to cover songs, a portion of the royalties earned is allocated to the original songwriters and copyright holders. DistroKid manages this process by deducting the owed amount from your earnings and forwarding it to the appropriate entities.
• Reporting: Just like with original songs, DistroKid receives monthly reports from the streaming services regarding your cover song's performance. They then calculate your share after deducting the appropriate royalties for the original creators.

Factors Impacting Payment Timing

Several factors can impact the timing and amount of your payments from DistroKid:

• Platform Delays: If a streaming platform delays its report, this will subsequently delay your payment.
• Account Accuracy: Ensure that your payment account details are up-to-date to avoid missing or delayed payments.
• Thresholds: Some distribution services set a payout threshold. Ensure you meet the minimum earnings required for payout.

Maximizing Your Earnings with SoundOn

While DistroKid provides an easy-to-use platform for distributing music, it's essential to consider alternatives that might offer more for up-and-coming artists. One such platform is SoundOn. SoundOn is a comprehensive marketing and distribution service that can help you reach a broader audience and build your music career efficiently.

SoundOn provides access to exclusive partners like TikTok and CapCut, delivering your music to a global audience and assisting with promotion efforts. By joining SoundOn, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Utilize advanced marketing tools.
• Get your music on major streaming platforms.
• Access detailed analytics to understand your audience better.

Registering as a SoundOn artist can pave the way for more streams, more fans, and increased income. Consider exploring SoundOn's offerings to enhance your music distribution strategy and potentially achieve greater success.

Conclusion

Understanding the payment schedule and royalty distribution for cover songs on DistroKid is vital for your music career. By staying informed and considering all available platforms, you can maximize your earnings and grow your fanbase. Whether you stick with DistroKid or explore alternatives like SoundOn, the key is to make informed decisions that best suit your needs.