What's the Best Distributor for Independent Artists?

For independent artists, getting your music out there can seem like a formidable task. With so many options available, how do you decide which distributor to use? This article aims to guide you through the process by identifying the best distributors for independent artists and showing you how to release your own music on Spotify.

Why Choose a Music Distributor?

Music distributors are essential for artists who want to expand their reach. They help get your music onto streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music. Additionally, good distributors offer valuable services, including analytics, promotional tools, and even sync opportunities.

Top Distributors for Independent Artists

While many distributors are available, here are some notable mentions:

• SoundOn: As an all-in-one platform, SoundOn helps you build a career and find new fans through TikTok, exclusive partners like CapCut, and other digital streaming platforms globally.
• Tunecore: Known for its comprehensive service offerings, Tunecore has helped artists distribute their music to various platforms.
• Distrokid: Distrokid is praised for its affordability and quick distribution times, making it a popular choice among independent artists.
• CDbaby: Providing a range of additional services, CDbaby has been a long-standing player in the music distribution industry.
• ONErpm, LANDR, Indiefy, and Amuse: These platforms each offer unique services tailored to different kinds of artists and needs.

How to Release Your Own Music on Spotify

Releasing your own music on Spotify involves several steps. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through it:

1. Choose Your Distributor

Your first step is to choose your distributor. As mentioned, options like SoundOn are highly recommended due to their comprehensive service offerings. Registering as a SoundOn artist can help you efficiently distribute your music across multiple platforms, including Spotify.

2. Prepare Your Music

Ensure your music files are high quality and properly formatted. Usually, you'll need WAV or FLAC files. Additionally, prepare your album artwork. It should be a high-resolution image, 3000x3000 pixels, and free of text or logos.

3. Metadata Details

Fill in your metadata details—title, artist name, release date, and so on. Metadata is crucial as it helps streaming services categorize and display your music correctly.

4. Upload Your Music

Using your chosen distributor’s platform, upload your music files and metadata details. Most distributors have easy-to-use dashboards that guide you through the process.

5. Select Release Date

You can choose your release date. Scheduling your release in advance can be beneficial, giving you time to create buzz around your upcoming drop.

6. Promote Your Release

Promotion is key. Use social media platforms, especially TikTok, to tease snippets of your music. Leveraging SoundOn's integration with TikTok can help you reach a larger audience. Collaborate with influencers and create engaging content around your release.

7. Pitch to Spotify Playlists

One of the best ways to get traction on Spotify is through playlists. Most distributors, including SoundOn, offer playlist pitching services. Pitching involves submitting your music to Spotify's playlist curators, who might feature your track on popular playlists.

8. Monitor Your Metrics

After releasing your music, closely monitor its performance. Most distributors offer dashboard analytics that show your streaming numbers, listener demographics, and more. Use this data to tweak your future promotion strategies.

Leveraging TikTok and SoundOn for Maximum Impact

With tools like SoundOn, you can make the most out of TikTok to promote your music. The platform's massive user base offers unparalleled opportunities for virality. Platforms like SoundOn integrate directly with TikTok, making it easier for your tracks to be used in user-generated content, leading to organic promotion.

Registering as a SoundOn artist can streamline your music promotion efforts, giving you access to invaluable tools and analytics that can propel your career.

Final Thoughts

Distributing your music might seem daunting initially, but with the right tools and strategies, it becomes a manageable task. By choosing reliable distributors like SoundOn, preparing your tracks meticulously, and promoting your releases actively, you make sure your music reaches a global audience. The added benefit of leveraging platforms like TikTok can offer you the edge needed to stand out in today’s overcrowded music market.

So, are you ready to make your music heard? Take the first step by choosing the right distributor and register as a SoundOn artist today.