Let me offer some pro tips for music distribution if you are considering making this step in 2024 or onward. In this article, I share my channel (DistroKid) and some basic facts and processes on how I use it to share my lofi beats with the world. Ready? Let’s get started!
Once upon a time in the vast realm of the music industry, aspiring musicians such as me faced daunting challenges on their journey to share their melodies with the world.
Hahh! This sounds a bit lame, but honestly, a couple of years before it was the reality. Most likely you have a Bandcamp page or a YouTube channel already, but finding the next step is pretty difficult. How do you add that certain ♪ after your name or the ‘Releases’ tab to your profile?
The process of getting music out to the public was often labyrinthine, expensive, and restricted by gatekeepers. However, in recent years become easier. Now, it is time to mention that I am not affiliated with DistroKid in any way. So this is not a promotional article.
I use their services and if you register through this link after reading my article, you get some discount and I will get some either. A win-win situation.
Anyways, let’s delve into the world of DistroKid and explore why it has become the go-to platform for independent musicians.
Affordability and Transparent Pricing
DistroKid’s pricing model is a game-changer for independent artists. Unlike traditional distribution services that charge per release or take a percentage of earnings, DistroKid operates on a simple and transparent subscription basis. This was a super important factor for me as lofi beats producer. I sketch numerous beats per year and I am pretty much price sensitive to be fair.
For a nominal annual fee, artists can upload and distribute unlimited tracks, keeping 100% of their earnings. This affordability factor levels the playing field, empowering musicians with limited resources to share their music without breaking the bank.
Lightning-Fast Music Distribution with DistroKid
Time is of the essence in the music industry, and DistroKid understands this well. With a reputation for lightning-fast distribution, the platform ensures that your music reaches major online stores and streaming services promptly. It comes handy if you have some existing releases you wish to push to the stream platforms the soonest possible. Though, honestly, there are times when I forget to upload the beats and push the distribution 2 days prior to the release date to deal with it.
In fact, according to DistroKid’s internal data, the average time from upload to availability on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music is often measured in hours, not days (source: DistroKid). Though, it is still worth uploading the latest release a couple of days before the big date to make sure.
Comprehensive Features & Free Tools by DistroKid
DistroKid is not merely a distribution platform; it’s a suite of tools designed to empower musicians at every stage of their journey. From customizable release dates to instant Spotify verification and YouTube Content ID, it offers a range of features that cater to the diverse needs of independent artists. The platform’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its continuous introduction of new tools, ensuring artists stay ahead of the curve. Let me screencap some of them to grab the essence:
There are more solutions on the page. In case you are interested, I am happy to go deeper in this topic. I believe this article is already long enough, I intended to offer you a brief overview. Still, I am open for the next set. Let me know.
Fan-Centric Initiatives
DistroKid’s dedication to supporting artists goes beyond distribution. With initiatives like HyperFollow (see my image above), artists can create landing pages for their releases: as an example check Ruby albums HyperFollow. Find more by exploring my Music section, clicking on the release, and then on the cover.
It also enables fans to pre-save and engage with upcoming music. And subsequently, you can start building your own promotional plan already, without spending extra budget on landing pages. This direct connection with fans enhances the overall fan experience and helps artists build a loyal fan base.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, DistroKid stands as a beacon of hope for independent musicians to my point of view. I have been using them since 2018 continuously. Its impressive growth, transparent pricing, rapid distribution, comprehensive features, and fan-centric initiatives make it a formidable ally in the quest for musical success.
If you are interested, kindly check it through my referral link to gain some discount as well as offer me some cents to produce more articles like this. Are you interested in the registration process and have any other questions? Drop me a note on any of my social media channels. Thank you for reading and good luck with your first release. Once you are on board, do not hesitate to send some links to me. I am open to checking your chillhop, chill, jazzhop, lofi and similar beats in my free time.
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