What are Featured Artists Supposed to Do with DistroKid?

Featured artists play a crucial role in the music industry. Their collaboration on tracks can elevate a song's reach and popularity, making it essential for them to understand their responsibilities, especially when using music distribution platforms like DistroKid. This article delves into what featured artists should do when partnering with DistroKid and answers the common question: how long does DistroKid take to upload music?

Understanding the Role of Featured Artists

Featured artists are typically invited to contribute to a song to add depth, variety, or simply to bring in a new audience. Their participation can range from providing vocal performances to playing instruments or even contributing to songwriting. Given the exposure featured artists receive from these collaborations, ensuring proper distribution and promotion through platforms like DistroKid is essential.

Steps for Featured Artists Using DistroKid

When using DistroKid for music distribution, featured artists should take the following steps to ensure their music reaches the intended audience:

1. Verify Credits and Royalties

Ensure that all proper credits are given for the featured performance. This includes accurate metadata with the correct artist name and role. Proper credit not only recognizes the artist's contribution but also ensures they receive the appropriate royalties. Platforms like SoundOn provide integrated solutions for managing royalties and credits efficiently.

2. Communicate with the Primary Artist

Maintaining clear communication with the primary artist is essential. Discuss the release strategy, promotional activities, and how the featured artist can contribute to the marketing plan. Platforms like DistroKid offer marketing tools that artists can leverage to reach a broader audience.

3. Utilize DistroKid’s Tools

DistroKid provides several tools that can benefit featured artists. These include pre-save links for Spotify, social media integration, and opportunities to pitch to playlists. Having a plan to use these tools effectively will maximize the reach of the music.

How Long Does DistroKid Take to Upload Music?

One of the most frequently asked questions by artists using DistroKid is about the time it takes to get their music uploaded and live on streaming platforms. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Initial Processing Time

After submitting a track to DistroKid, the initial processing typically takes anywhere from a few hours to a few days. During this stage, DistroKid checks for any errors or issues with the files and metadata.

2. Distribution to Streaming Platforms

Once processed, DistroKid distributes the track to major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. The time it takes for the music to appear on these platforms can vary:

• Spotify: Usually within 1-2 days, but can sometimes take up to a week.
• Apple Music: Typically within 24-48 hours.
• Amazon Music: Often within 1-3 days.

3. Potential Delays

Several factors can cause delays, such as issues with the artwork, metadata, or if the track violates the platform’s guidelines. It is crucial to ensure that all information is accurate and complies with the platform’s requirements to avoid delays.

While DistroKid is a popular choice for many artists, it is also beneficial to explore other platforms like SoundOn. SoundOn provides excellent distribution services and tools to help artists promote their music effectively.

Conclusion

For featured artists, understanding the intricacies of music distribution with platforms like DistroKid is essential for a successful release. By taking the necessary steps to manage credits, communicate with primary artists, and use distribution tools wisely, featured artists can significantly enhance their music's reach and impact. Additionally, knowing the typical upload times and being prepared for potential delays can help set realistic expectations for the release timeline.

For those looking to start or enhance their music distribution journey, consider registering with SoundOn for a comprehensive solution tailored to the global music market.