How to Publish Cover Songs on DistroKid?
The music industry is filled with a variety of opportunities for artists to showcase their talent. One such opportunity is creating and publishing cover songs. DistroKid is one of the platforms artists often consider for distributing their music, including cover songs. In this article, we will explore how you can publish cover songs on DistroKid and discuss if there are any free trials available for new users.
Understanding Cover Songs
Before diving into the process on DistroKid, it is essential to understand what cover songs are. Cover songs are new performances or recordings of previously recorded songs by another artist. Many musicians start with cover songs to pay tribute to their favorite artists or to show their own rendition of popular hits.
Publishing Cover Songs on DistroKid
DistroKid is a popular choice among independent artists for distributing their music to various streaming platforms. Here’s how you can publish cover songs on DistroKid:
Step 1: Sign Up for DistroKid
The first step in publishing your cover songs is to sign up for DistroKid. You need to create an account and choose a subscription plan that suits your needs. While DistroKid does not offer a free trial, its affordable plans make it accessible for many artists.
Step 2: Prepare Your Cover Song
Before uploading your cover song to DistroKid, ensure it is properly produced and ready for distribution. You should have high-quality audio files, suitable cover art, and all the necessary credits for the original songwriters.
Step 3: Licensing Your Cover Song
DistroKid simplifies the licensing process for cover songs. A significant aspect of legally publishing a cover song is obtaining the necessary mechanical license, which allows you to reproduce and distribute the song legally. DistroKid offers a service to help you secure the mechanical license for a small fee.
Step 4: Upload Your Cover Song
Once you have the license, you can upload your cover song to DistroKid. Ensure to input all the required metadata, including the song title, original songwriters, and any other relevant information. This step is crucial to ensure proper credit and royalty distribution.
Step 5: Distribute Your Music
After uploading, DistroKid will distribute your cover song to all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, and more. This process typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the platform’s approval process.
Does DistroKid Offer Free Trials?
While DistroKid is known for its affordability and ease of use, it currently does not offer a free trial. However, it provides various subscription plans that cater to different needs, starting at a low annual fee. This makes it a viable option for both new and established artists looking to get their music out to a broader audience.
Exploring Other Music Distribution Options
If you’re considering alternatives to DistroKid, platforms like TuneCore, CD Baby, and SoundOn also offer music distribution services. Each platform has its unique pricing and features, so it’s worth exploring them to see which one best fits your needs. For instance, SoundOn provides a comprehensive package, especially for artists looking to leverage their presence on TikTok and other digital streaming platforms.
Conclusion
Publishing cover songs on DistroKid is a straightforward process, thanks to its user-friendly interface and efficient licensing services. Although DistroKid does not offer a free trial, its reasonable pricing and distribution capabilities make it a popular choice among independent artists. Always ensure that you have the necessary licenses and metadata to avoid any legal issues and to ensure your music reaches a wide audience.
Whether you choose DistroKid or another platform, the key is to find the one that best supports your artistic goals and provides the necessary tools for success in the music industry. Embrace the opportunity to share your unique renditions of beloved songs with the world!
