What is Music Distribution?
Music distribution is how music reaches listeners. Music can be distributed physically or digitally. Prior to music streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, etc), physical distribution was the traditional method, with distributors signing deals with record labels or artists to sell to music shops and stores.
Nowadays, digital music distribution is key to music promotion. Instead of delivering physical albums to stores now, the majority of artists distribute their music to online streaming platforms like Spotify, iTunes, Amazon Music, and more. This method of music distribution has allowed artists to reach listeners directly by cutting out the middleman.
What are some digital music distribution platforms?
LANDR
TuneCore
CD Baby
All three of these platforms give you license to share your music on popular streaming services such as iTunes, Amazon, Spotify, Google Play, and YouTube Music. Keep in mind each platform will vary in fees, so pay attention to whether they have yearly account fees, royalties, or set fees for albums or songs. Find out which method works best for your music distribution frequency and budget.
What is the process of submitting my music?
Most companies require that you submit a ‘one-sheet’ including your information like artist name, album or song title, genre, and a short bio. Utilize this data to make it easy for users to find your music. Think about ways your artist name, or title can leave a lasting impact for searchers to remember and share.
How can I individually contribute to distribution aside from my distribution partner?
Create a social media presence and offer some buzz around your music. Offer behind the scenes videos of you making your music. Tell the story behind the inspiration of your music
Utilize SoundCloud to share 30 second previews of your songs
Start a Youtube channel
Here are some additional resources on how to distribute your music:
A list of companies that handle the licensing and distribution to various streaming services [read more]
Everything Musicians Need to Know about Music Distribution [read more]
The Mechanics of Music Distribution: How it Works, Types of Music Distribution Companies + 29 Top Distributors [read more]
Here are some more popular distribution platforms. Do your research before choosing a digital distributor!
Source: “Everything Musicians Need to Know about Music Distribution,” LANDR