You’ve written the songs. They’ve been recorded, produced, mixed, and mastered. Your hard work, dedication, and creative vision have finally paid off. Now it’s time to find your audience. But where do you start? We’re here to give you the ultimate guide to music distribution in 2024 so you can take the necessary steps toward getting your music into the ears (and hands) of your fans.
In 2024, musicians have more options than ever when it comes to releasing and distributing their music to the world. This makes the landscape of music distribution both exciting and accessible, but also brings a whole new set of challenges. With the rise of digital platforms, social media, and internet virality, artists have much more control than before over how their music lands with listeners. However, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming, and learning the ins and outs of music distribution can be daunting. But don’t worry, we’ve got you.
Follow along as we explore the basics of music distribution, the various distribution options available today, and some tips on how you can reach the largest audience possible. Let’s go.
What is Music Distribution?
Simply put, music distribution is the process of getting your music to listeners. In today’s digital age, this includes digital music platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal, among others. This also means getting your music into online stores where fans can purchase your tracks, as opposed to just streaming them. And if you want to go back to the old-school days of physical media, it’s equally important to know where to get your music pressed for vinyl, CD, and even cassette. Effective distribution will ensure that your music is easily accessed, discovered, and monetized. The fact of the matter is, without proper distribution, even the best music can go unheard.
Distribution Options for Musicians
Depending on your goals and preferences, you have different avenues when it comes to selecting distribution. Let's take a look at the three most popular forms of distribution today and the different options within each. Our advice: you should consider choosing at least one option from each category to maximize your reach and find your fans.
1. Digital Distribution Services
Digital distribution services act as intermediaries between musicians and streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. They handle the logistics of getting your music onto various platforms, ensuring that your tracks are available worldwide. Some popular digital distribution services in 2024 include:
- TuneCore is a subscription-based service that helps musicians distribute their music to streaming services, web retailers, and other online venues. It’s a favorite among independent artists as it offers publishing and promotions services and allows artists to keep 100% of their royalties.
- DistroKid is often seen as the industry leader in the digital distribution game. Artists love it for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, and they don’t take a cut of the royalties.
- CD Baby is one of the oldest digital distributors, and offers both distribution and physical CD/vinyl sales. It charges a one-time fee per release and takes a small percentage of royalties.
- UnitedMasters is a newer player in the market that offers distribution with an emphasis on brand partnerships and sync opportunities, making it a great choice for artists looking to expand their reach beyond streaming.
2. Direct Upload Platforms
Some online platforms allow artists to upload their music directly while offering listeners the opportunity to both stream and purchase their music. This option often allows artists more creative control over how their music is presented and sold, but can have a smaller reach compared to using a digital distribution service. Two of the most famous are:
- SoundCloud: A platform favored by indie artists and emerging musicians, SoundCloud allows you to upload music directly and reach a global audience. It offers monetization options through SoundCloud Premier and allows fans to directly support artists. Some of today’s biggest artists, particularly in hip hop, first gained popularity through SoundCloud.
- Bandcamp: Bandcamp is known for its artist-friendly revenue model, where artists keep 85-90% of sales. It’s a great platform for selling music directly to fans, offering options for digital downloads, physical merchandise (including t-shirts, tote bags, and other merch table staples), and even fan subscriptions.
3. Social Media Platforms
The impact that social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have had on music promotion and distribution is undeniable. In 2024, even the biggest names in music are using them to create content and showcase their work to a larger audience. Social media also allows musicians to build a community around their music in ways that other distribution methods simply cannot. Here’s a list of the most popular social media platforms that musicians use:
- YouTube: As the largest video-sharing platform in the world, YouTube is a must when it comes to distributing your music to the masses. With the click of a button, artists can upload music videos, live performances, or even lyric videos, reaching millions of potential listeners. Monetization is possible through ad revenue, channel memberships, and YouTube’s Partner Program.
- TikTok: Skyrocketing in popularity during the pandemic, TikTok’s short-form video format has become the perfect platform for musicians to leave a mark. TikTok allows artists to easily and effectively promote their music, engage with fans, and potentially create viral trends that boost their music’s popularity. And not just new acts: British indie band Heavenly reformed and are touring America after their 1995 single "P.U.N.K. Girl" became a viral TikTok sensation.
- Instagram Reels: Similar to TikTok, Instagram Reels offers a platform for short, engaging videos that can feature your music. Instagram’s integration with Facebook and its wide user base makes it a valuable tool for music promotion.
Some Helpful Hints
4. Mind Your Metadata
Metadata, such as song titles, artist names, and genre tags, is crucial for your music to be discoverable on streaming platforms. Your metadata helps listeners easily identify your content and link it back to you for a seamless experience from the customer's point of view.
5. Embrace Multiple Channels
We know it can sometimes feel like a full-time job promoting your music on all the many social network platforms, but trust us, it’s worth it. Relying on just one or two platforms can severely limit your reach, but if you work smart you can use the same piece of content across all channels!
6. The Power of Playlists
Playlists are one of the most effective ways to get your music discovered by new listeners. Submit your songs to both editorial and user-generated playlists on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
Now Find Your Fans
Congratulations! You’re ready to take the first step towards finding your fans. Refer back to this guide as you begin to choose which music distributors are right for you and your music. By understanding the available distribution options and implementing effective strategies to reach a large audience, you can maximize the impact of your music and grow your career. We look forward to hearing your music!
●●●Written by Jesse Stanford, Company Cue
