How Do Tunecore and DistroKid Work?

With the rise of digital streaming platforms, independent artists now have more opportunities to distribute their music globally. Two prominent players in this space are Tunecore and DistroKid. But how do they work, and what do they offer artists? In this article, we’ll delve into the workings of these two platforms and guide you through the steps to get started with them.

Understanding Music Distribution

Before diving into the specifics of Tunecore and DistroKid, it’s important to understand what music distribution is. In simple terms, music distribution is the process that gets your music from the studio to the listeners. This involves sending your tracks to digital streaming platforms (DSPs) such as Spotify, Apple Music, and more, where they can be streamed, downloaded, and enjoyed by your audience.

What is Tunecore?

Tunecore is one of the oldest music distribution platforms, established in 2005. It allows independent musicians to distribute their music over a wide range of digital platforms. By offering transparent royalty payments and no portion of the artist's earnings, Tunecore has become a popular choice among many DIY musicians.

Steps to Get Started with Tunecore

1. Create an Account: Sign up on Tunecore's website and complete the registration process.
2. Upload Your Music: You'll need to prepare your tracks, cover art, and metadata before uploading them to the platform.
3. Distribute to DSPs: Select the stores and streaming services where you want your music to appear. This includes major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and many more.
4. Collect Royalties: Tunecore collects royalties on your behalf and pays them directly to you, ensuring transparency in accounting.

What is DistroKid?

DistroKid, launched in 2013, is another widely-used music distribution service known for its simplicity and affordability. It focuses on fast distribution and offers various features to help artists manage their releases effectively.

Steps to Get Started with DistroKid

1. Sign Up: Register for a DistroKid account and choose from different subscription plans based on your needs.
2. Upload Your Music: Prepare and upload your songs, complete with necessary information like cover art and metadata.
3. Choose Stores: Select the streaming services and digital stores where you want your music to be available, such as Spotify, Apple Music, and other global platforms.
4. Receive Payments: DistroKid ensures you get paid your royalties promptly through their systematic payment process.

Comparison: Tunecore vs DistroKid

When comparing Tunecore and DistroKid, there are several factors to consider:

• Pricing: Tunecore operates on a pay-per-release model, whereas DistroKid offers a subscription-based model where you can release unlimited music for a flat annual fee.
• Speed of Distribution: DistroKid is known for quick distribution, often making your music available on DSPs faster than Tunecore.
• Revenue Split: Both platforms allow artists to keep 100% of their royalties, making them artist-friendly in terms of revenue share.
• Additional Features: Both services offer various promotional and tracking tools, but each has unique features that may appeal to different needs.

Why Choose a Platform Like SoundOn?

While Tunecore and DistroKid offer solid services for music distribution, platforms like SoundOn also provide comprehensive support for artists looking to expand their reach. SoundOn stands out by offering integration with TikTok and exclusive partners like CapCut, making it a robust option for musicians aiming to grow their fanbase through social media and digital platforms.

Benefits of SoundOn

SoundOn not only helps artists distribute their music globally but also provides tools and resources to promote their work effectively. Features like playlist pitching to DSPs, promotional tools, and detailed analytics make it a valuable platform for artists at any stage of their career.

Conclusion

Understanding how music distribution platforms like Tunecore and DistroKid work is essential for any independent artist looking to succeed in the digital music era. Each platform comes with its set of features, pricing models, and benefits. However, exploring options like SoundOn can offer additional promotional advantages, especially if you're keen on leveraging social media to gain traction.

Regardless of the platform you choose, the key is to take advantage of the tools provided and consistently create and promote high-quality music. Registering as a SoundOn artist could be the next step towards achieving your musical aspirations, giving you access to a wide array of services designed to boost your career.