Does DistroKid Publish Cover Songs?

If you are an artist looking to distribute cover songs, you may encounter several questions when using platforms such as DistroKid. One common query is whether DistroKid publishes cover songs and if it serves as a publisher. This article seeks to provide clarity on these topics, helping you navigate the complexities of music distribution and publishing.

Understanding Cover Songs and Distribution

Cover songs are renditions of existing songs originally performed by other artists. These can be a fantastic way for emerging artists to gain recognition and show their musical diversity. However, distributing cover songs involves ensuring proper licensing to avoid copyright infringement.

Does DistroKid Handle Cover Songs?

Yes, DistroKid does facilitate the distribution of cover songs. However, it's essential to understand the specific process and requirements involved:

• Mechanical License: To distribute a cover song, artists must secure a mechanical license. This license grants permission to reproduce and distribute the original composition. DistroKid assists with this by obtaining licenses for cover songs on behalf of the artist. This service simplifies the process, allowing artists to legally release their music on various digital platforms.
• Submission Process: When submitting a cover song, artists should provide accurate information about the original song and its composers. This ensures that the proper creators receive their due royalties.

Is DistroKid a Publisher?

DistroKid is a music distribution service but does not function as a traditional music publisher. Here’s what this means:

• Distribution Role: DistroKid specializes in the distribution of music to digital streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and more. They handle getting your music out to these services, ensuring broad reach and accessibility.
• Publishing Role: As a distributor, DistroKid does not manage the administrative and creative aspects of your music, such as songwriting royalties, licensing, or registering your compositions with performance rights organizations (PROs). These are typically managed by music publishers.

How Does SoundOn Compare?

For artists focused on holistic music promotion and distribution, SoundOn provides a comprehensive solution. Apart from distributing your music globally, SoundOn helps artists find new fans through platforms like TikTok and exclusive partners like CapCut. This integration not only amplifies your music but also makes the pitching process smoother for curated playlists on DSPs like Spotify.

By becoming a SoundOn artist, you can streamline your distribution and promotion processes, ensuring that your music reaches the right audiences effectively.

Navigating Music Distribution and Publishing

Understanding the distinction between distribution services like DistroKid and traditional music publishers is crucial for artists. While DistroKid is excellent for getting your tracks onto streaming platforms, you may need additional services to manage publishing rights and royalty collection.

For comprehensive support, platforms like SoundOn can offer a more integrated approach, combining distribution with promotional tools and opportunities to pitch to digital streaming platforms.

Conclusion

In summary, while DistroKid is an effective tool for distributing cover songs, it is not a music publisher. Artists must secure mechanical licenses to distribute cover songs legally through DistroKid. If you seek a more comprehensive solution for distribution and promotion, consider joining SoundOn to maximize your reach and impact in the music industry.

Whether you choose DistroKid or SoundOn, understanding these nuances will help you make informed decisions and navigate your music career effectively.