The Best Music Distribution Service For Artists

The Best Music Distribution Service For Artists

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The music industry is a wild ride, so finding the right distributor is essential for getting your music out there. But not all distributors are created equal. There are hidden fees, shiny extras and some just don’t deliver on their promises. So if you’re ready to switch lanes on the distribution highway, we’ll help you find your perfect match.

For artists, the best music distribution service puts you in the driver’s seat to pocket more of your hard-earned royalties from streaming and sales. These services also allow you to easily track your music’s performance and make decisions based on data. They may even offer some additional marketing and promotional services like playlist pitching and snazzy analytics.

In the past, distribution companies worked as intermediaries between record labels and retail outlets like music-only stores or large retailers. They would purchase music from the record label and sell it on consignment or directly to customers for a fee. This model changed with the rise of high-speed internet and digital mp3 players. Now, many of these distributors work hand-in-hand with artists to provide services that align with their needs. This can include things like marketing, branding, image consulting and more.

DistroKid first entered the distribution landscape as a scrappy one-man operation in 2013. They were simple, sleek and offered unlimited distribution for an annual fee which was a big change from what the Music distribution service market was used to seeing. Since then, they’ve grown to almost 300 employees across the world including offices in NYC, SF, Los Angeles, Nashville, and 4 locations in Brazil. They are one of the best music distribution services because they focus on the artist and are very innovative.

AWAL is known for its high-performance model, working with artists who have already gained some traction in the music industry and are making some money. They don’t charge upfront fees but instead take a 15% commission on earnings, which is a great model for artists who are confident their music can generate revenue. They also offer a number of other label-like services like marketing support and playlist pitching.

Another player in the field is Soundrop, which offers streamlined cover distribution and payment splitting without any extra fees. It’s designed for creators who collaborate on tracks and want to easily distribute their music and split up payments. Pony notes that although they’re technically located in the same building as CD Baby, they’re not meant to compete and are focused on a very specific type of creator.

LANDR is another option for musicians who are looking for a more hands-on approach to their distribution. They offer a range of marketing and promotional services along with an extensive network of recording professionals. They can also provide mastering and samples to get your music ready for the streaming world. In addition, they can help with YouTube content monetization and offer a variety of tools for collaboration and tracking performances. They also have a few perks for newcomers, like a free trial and a generous referral program.

 

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