How Music Distributors Impact Independent Artists
Written By: CJ Hall
In today's digital age, the music industry has gone through a huge transformation, giving independent artists a shit ton of different platforms and ways to share their music with the world around us. However, navigating this complex industry isn’t always an easy feat if you are pushing for a wider audience reach. One key player in the ecosystem that emerging artists should get super acquainted with are music distributors.
What is a Music Distributor?
Distributors play a big role in the music industry, particularly for emerging artists looking to release and monetize their music without the backing of a major record label.
A music distributor acts as a dot connector between independent artists and major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music and more. They take care of the logistics of getting your music onto these platforms, ensuring that artists can focus on their craft rather than the annoying intricacies of distribution.
Key Functions of Music Distributors
Distribution to Digital Platforms
As we mentioned earlier, music distributors assist with the placement of tracks on various streaming services and online stores. By tapping into their established relationships with these platforms, distributors ensure that an artist’s music is widely available, maximizing their reach and potential revenue.
Revenue Collection
Collecting royalties and payments from multiple streaming platforms and digital sales can be so horrifying for independent artists. Distributors streamline this process by combining earnings from different sources and providing artists with a single payment, making financial management a smoother process.
Metadata Management
Accurate metadata is essential for tracking plays and ensuring proper royalty payments. Distributors manage and verify all metadata associated with music tracks, including artists names, track titles, album information, and International Standing Recording Codes (ISRC), which identifies individual sound recordings and music videos by a unique number.
Choosing the Right Distributor
When selecting a distributor, artists should consider factors such as cost, services offered, and reputation. Popular distributors like DistroKid, TuneCore, and Soundcloud each offer unique features and benefits. Comparing these options can help uncover the best fit for an artists’ needs.
Many independent artists have found significant success through distribution services. For example, the story of Chance the Rapper stands out in the rapidly evolving music industry. His critically acclaimed mixtape, Acid Rap, catapulted him to stardom showcasing the strong impact of digital distribution.
In Conclusion
Music distributors play an indispensable role in the success of independent artists. By handling distribution logistics, managing royalties, and providing valuable promotional support, distributors empower artists to reach global audiences and achieve their musical aspirations. As the music industry continues to evolve, the importance of music distributors will only grow, offering even more opportunities for independent artists to unlock their full potential.
Artists looking to take their music careers to the next level should explore various distribution options and leverage these services to enhance their reach and impact. By choosing the right distributor, artists can focus on what they do best – creating music – while ensuring their work is heard around the world.