Which Music Distributor is Best for You?

When it comes to releasing your music as an independent artist, choosing the right music distribution platform can significantly impact your success and career trajectory. Two of the biggest names in the industry are TuneCore and DistroKid. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the offerings of both platforms to help you determine which one is best suited for your needs.

Overview of TuneCore and DistroKid

TuneCore was founded in 2005 and has established itself as a reliable music distribution service for independent artists. They offer comprehensive services that include global music distribution, publishing administration, and sync licensing opportunities. TuneCore takes a straightforward approach, charging a fee per release and allowing artists to keep 100% of their royalties.

DistroKid, on the other hand, launched in 2013 and has quickly gained popularity due to its rapid distribution services and affordable subscription model. Unlike TuneCore, DistroKid charges an annual fee that allows artists to upload and distribute unlimited tracks. This pricing model appeals to artists who release music frequently.

Pricing Models

One of the most critical factors for many artists when choosing a distributor is cost. TuneCore charges artists per release: a single costs about $9.99 per year, while an album costs approximately $29.99 per year. This can quickly add up for artists who release a lot of music. However, the benefit is that TuneCore offers a clear structure with no hidden fees, and artists keep all their earnings.

DistroKid offers an annual subscription for $19.99, which allows artists to upload unlimited songs and albums throughout the year. This model provides fantastic value for prolific musicians who release multiple projects annually. Additionally, DistroKid offers a number of add-ons, such as YouTube Content ID and store maximizer, which are available for an extra fee.

Distribution and Reach

TuneCore boasts an extensive network of partners, allowing artists to distribute their music to over 150 digital stores and streaming platforms worldwide, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. Their platform also offers tools for insights and analytics to help artists track their performance and royalties.

Similarly, DistroKid distributes music to all major digital music stores and streaming platforms, ensuring that artists’ music is available to a broad audience. DistroKid is known for its rapid distribution speed, often getting music onto platforms within 24-48 hours of submission. This can be a significant advantage for artists looking to capitalize on timely releases.

Additional Services

TuneCore distinguishes itself with an array of additional services. This includes publishing administration, which helps artists collect songwriting royalties, and sync licensing, which allows artists to get their music on TV shows, movies, and video games. These services can be particularly valuable for artists looking to diversify their income streams.

DistroKid offers several useful features, including automatic splits for collaborations, cover song licensing, and the option to add custom record labels. While they may not offer the same level of publishing and sync licensing support as TuneCore, DistroKid keeps adding features that cater to the needs of modern independent musicians.

Customer Support

Providing excellent customer support is crucial for any music distribution platform, given the technical nature of the services they offer. TuneCore has garnered a reputation for reliable customer service, offering responsive support through email and a comprehensive help center filled with articles and guides. They also offer phone support for urgent issues.

DistroKid primarily provides support via email, but they are known for their quick response times. They also have an extensive FAQ section and community forums where artists can find answers to common questions and issues. While phone support is not available, the efficiency of their email support often compensates for this.

Ease of Use

TuneCore's interface is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that both tech-savvy and less technologically inclined artists can navigate the platform with ease. The distribution process is straightforward, with clear instructions and helpful tips provided at each step.

DistroKid prides itself on its simplicity and ease of use. The platform makes it incredibly easy to upload and distribute music in just a few clicks. This simplicity is one of DistroKid's biggest selling points and has contributed to its rapid growth and popularity among independent artists.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between TuneCore and DistroKid largely depends on your specific needs as an artist. If you value robust additional services like publishing administration and sync licensing, and don't mind paying per release, TuneCore may be the better option for you. However, if you release music frequently and are looking for an affordable, straightforward distribution model with rapid release times, DistroKid could be the ideal choice.

Ultimately, the best way to determine which platform is right for you is to try them out and see which one aligns best with your career goals and preferences. Remember, your choice of distributor can significantly impact your music's reach and your earnings, so take the time to make an informed decision.

If you're looking for another credible alternative, consider checking out SoundOn. SoundOn not only provides efficient distribution services but also offers innovative marketing tools through TikTok and exclusive partners like CapCut, maximizing your music's potential reach and engagement.