Music Video Distribution Companies: A Comprehensive Guide for Artists in 2023

In today's digital landscape, music videos have become an essential marketing tool for artists of all levels. A well-produced music video can significantly increase an artist's visibility, engage fans, and help music reach new audiences across various platforms. However, creating a great video is only half the battle - getting it seen by the right people requires strategic distribution.

Music video distribution companies specialize in delivering your visual content to streaming platforms, music channels, and social media outlets, maximizing your video's exposure and potential for success. With numerous distribution services available, choosing the right partner for your career stage and goals can be challenging.

This comprehensive guide explores the top music video distribution companies, their services, pricing models, and how they can help elevate your music career through effective video promotion.

What Are Music Video Distribution Companies?

Music video distribution companies serve as intermediaries between artists and video platforms. These specialized services help musicians get their music videos onto major streaming platforms like YouTube, Vevo, Apple Music, Tidal, and various television networks. Beyond simple delivery, they often provide additional services like marketing support, analytics, and monetization opportunities.

The best distribution companies have established relationships with platforms and curators, giving artists access to opportunities they might not secure independently. This can include featured placements, playlist inclusion, and strategic positioning that increases visibility.

Why Use a Music Video Distribution Company?

While some platforms like YouTube allow direct uploads, professional distribution offers several advantages:

  • Wider Reach: Access to platforms that don't accept direct submissions from independent artists

  • Professional Presentation: Proper formatting, tagging, and metadata optimization

  • Monetization: Help collecting royalties and advertising revenue across platforms

  • Analytics: Detailed performance metrics to understand audience engagement

  • Marketing Support: Many distributors offer promotional packages and placement opportunities

  • Time-Saving: One submission reaches multiple platforms instead of managing separate accounts

For independent artists working to build their careers, proper video distribution can be as important as the quality of the video itself. A strategic approach to distribution can amplify your reach while building your professional profile in the industry.

Top Music Video Distribution Companies in 2023

The following companies represent the leading options for artists seeking professional music video distribution services. Each offers unique advantages depending on your budget, career stage, and specific goals.

1. Vevo

As the premier music video network, Vevo remains one of the most prestigious platforms for music video distribution. While not a traditional distributor, Vevo partners with major labels and select independent distributors to showcase high-quality music videos.

Key Features:

  • Massive audience reach with over 25 billion monthly views

  • Distribution across YouTube, connected TV apps, and mobile platforms

  • Professional channel branding and artist profile

  • Potential for inclusion in curated playlists and featured spots

  • Advertising revenue sharing

How to Get on Vevo: Independent artists typically need to work through a distributor that has a Vevo partnership. Companies like EMPIRE, Symphonic Distribution, and Ditto Music can help secure Vevo distribution for qualifying videos.

Cost: Varies based on the partner distributor, typically ranging from $95-$299 per video plus annual fees.

2. EMPIRE

EMPIRE has grown from an independent distribution company to a major player in the music industry, offering both audio and video distribution services. Known for working with breakthrough artists, EMPIRE provides a pathway to major visibility.

Key Features:

  • Distribution to YouTube, Vevo, Apple Music, and other major platforms

  • Marketing and promotional support

  • Potential for playlisting and featured placements

  • Detailed analytics and reporting

  • Options for more extensive label services

Cost: EMPIRE works on an application basis and doesn't publicly disclose pricing. They typically focus on artists who have already built some momentum.

3. Symphonic Distribution

Symphonic Distribution offers comprehensive music and video distribution services for independent artists. Their video distribution service includes access to Vevo and other major platforms.

Key Features:

  • Distribution to 30+ video platforms including Vevo, YouTube Music, Apple Music, and TIDAL

  • Vevo channel creation and management

  • YouTube Content ID protection

  • Royalty collection and detailed reporting

  • Marketing services available as add-ons

Cost: Symphonic charges $95 per video for basic distribution, with additional fees for Vevo placement (approximately $95-$150). They also offer subscription plans for regular releasers.

4. Ditto Music

Ditto Music is a popular distribution service that offers both audio and video distribution packages. They provide Vevo distribution and YouTube channel management for independent artists.

Key Features:

  • Distribution to Vevo, YouTube, Apple Music, and other platforms

  • Vevo channel setup and management

  • YouTube Content ID registration

  • 100% royalty payouts on some plans

  • Marketing and promotion services available

Cost: Ditto's video distribution starts at $99 per video for basic distribution, with Vevo distribution available at $299 per video. They also offer annual plan options for frequent releasers.

5. DistroKid

While primarily known for audio distribution, DistroKid has expanded into video services with their "DistroVid" offering, providing a budget-friendly option for YouTube Music and other platform distribution.

Key Features:

  • Distribution to YouTube Music and other select platforms

  • Unlimited video uploads with annual subscription

  • Quick turnaround times

  • 100% royalty payouts

  • Integration with existing DistroKid accounts

Cost: DistroVid costs $99 per year for unlimited music video uploads. Note that their service doesn't include Vevo distribution.

6. AWAL

AWAL (Artists Without A Label) offers selective distribution services for independent artists who meet their quality standards. For those who qualify, they provide comprehensive music and video distribution.

Key Features:

  • Distribution to major video platforms

  • Marketing and promotional support

  • Playlist pitching and opportunities

  • Advanced analytics and audience insights

  • Potential for funding and more extensive services

Cost: AWAL operates on a selective application process and typically works on a revenue share model without upfront fees. However, they only accept artists who demonstrate potential and quality.

7. TuneCore

TuneCore offers video distribution services that help artists get their content on key platforms. Similar to their music distribution model, they focus on wide reach with transparent pricing.

Key Features:

  • Distribution to Amazon, Apple Music, YouTube, and other platforms

  • Monetization through ad revenue

  • Performance analytics

  • Integration with existing TuneCore music distribution

Cost: Video distribution through TuneCore typically costs $99 per video as a one-time fee. They do not currently offer Vevo distribution.

8. ONErpm

ONErpm provides tiered distribution services with options for both established and emerging artists. Their video distribution includes access to major platforms and marketing support at higher tiers.

Key Features:

  • Distribution to YouTube, Apple Music, and other video platforms

  • YouTube channel management

  • Marketing and promotional options for higher-tier clients

  • Detailed analytics dashboard

  • Content ID management

Cost: ONErpm offers different service tiers with varying commission rates. Basic distribution is often free with a revenue share model, while premium services require application and higher revenue splits.

How to Choose the Right Music Video Distribution Company

With numerous options available, selecting the right distribution partner requires careful consideration of your specific needs, budget, and career goals. Here's how to evaluate your options:

Consider Your Budget and Release Strategy

Distribution costs can add up quickly, especially for artists releasing multiple videos per year. Consider:

  • Per-video costs vs. subscription models

  • Additional fees for premium platforms like Vevo

  • Marketing add-ons and their pricing

  • Revenue share percentages

For artists on tight budgets who release frequently, subscription services like DistroVid might be most cost-effective. For those releasing fewer, high-quality videos where maximum exposure is the goal, premium services with Vevo distribution might be worth the investment.

If you're looking to build a full digital presence beyond just video distribution, check out this guide to free musician website builders to complement your video strategy.

Evaluate Platform Coverage

Different distributors have relationships with different platforms. Ensure your chosen service delivers to the platforms where your target audience is most active:

  • Is Vevo distribution essential for your genre and audience?

  • Do you need distribution to international or genre-specific platforms?

  • Are connected TV apps important for your audience?

  • Will your distributor deliver to emerging platforms as they develop?

For most artists, YouTube coverage is essential, but don't overlook platforms like Apple Music, TIDAL, and social media integrations that could expand your reach.

Assess Additional Services

Distribution alone may not be enough. Consider distributors that offer:

  • Marketing and promotion services

  • Playlist pitching

  • Social media support

  • Content protection and copyright management

  • Advanced analytics

Some artists may benefit from distributors that offer more comprehensive services, even if they come at a premium price. The right promotional support can dramatically increase a video's performance.

Research Reputation and Artist Satisfaction

Before committing to any service:

  • Read reviews from other artists in your genre

  • Ask for recommendations in music forums and communities

  • Check the company's track record for payments and transparency

  • Look for case studies of artists similar to yourself

A distributor with a solid reputation for supporting artists at your career level will likely provide the best service and opportunities.

Preparing Your Music Video for Distribution

To maximize the effectiveness of your distribution, proper preparation is essential. Most distributors have specific requirements and recommendations:

Technical Requirements

  • Video Quality: Most distributors require at least 1080p HD quality, with some now accepting 4K

  • File Format: Typically MP4 with H.264 encoding

  • Audio Quality: High-quality audio, usually WAV or high-bitrate MP3

  • Aspect Ratio: Standard 16:9 widescreen format

  • File Size: Varies by distributor, but generally under 2GB

Always check your specific distributor's technical requirements before finalizing your video to avoid rejection or delays.

Metadata and Information

Prepare the following information for your submission:

  • Complete and accurate song title

  • Artist name(s) and featured artists

  • Album title (if applicable)

  • Release date

  • Genre and subgenre classifications

  • Songwriter and producer credits

  • ISRCs (International Standard Recording Codes)

  • Descriptive video tags and keywords

  • Compelling video description

Thorough, accurate metadata improves discoverability and ensures proper attribution and payment tracking.

Content Guidelines

Most distribution platforms have content restrictions. Common requirements include:

  • No unauthorized copyrighted material (including samples, footage, or images)

  • Content ratings for explicit material

  • No promotion of illegal activities

  • Appropriate documentation for any licensed content

Violating these guidelines can result in your video being rejected or removed after distribution, potentially affecting your standing with the distributor.

Maximizing Your Music Video's Impact Post-Distribution

Distribution is just the beginning. To get the most from your investment:

Promotion Strategies

  • Coordinated Launch: Create a promotion plan across all your social platforms

  • Email Marketing: Notify your mailing list subscribers about the new release

  • Influencer Outreach: Partner with relevant influencers in your genre

  • Press Releases: Submit to music blogs and publications

  • Teasers and Snippets: Create short clips for social media promotion

  • Paid Advertising: Consider targeted ads on platforms where your audience is active

The most successful videos have promotional campaigns that extend for weeks beyond the initial release, keeping momentum through strategic content rollout.

Leveraging Analytics

Use the data provided by your distributor to refine your strategy:

  • Identify which platforms generate the most engagement

  • Analyze viewer demographics to better understand your audience

  • Track viewing patterns to see where viewers lose interest

  • Monitor traffic sources to see which promotional efforts are most effective

  • Compare performance metrics across different videos to refine your approach

This data should inform both your ongoing promotion for current videos and planning for future releases.

Monetization Opportunities

Beyond the initial distribution, explore additional revenue streams:

  • YouTube Partner Program for ad revenue

  • Content ID to catch and monetize user-generated content using your music

  • Sync licensing opportunities for commercial use

  • Merchandise links in video descriptions

  • Fan funding and tip jar integrations

A comprehensive monetization strategy can help recoup production and distribution costs while generating ongoing income.

The Future of Music Video Distribution

The landscape of music video distribution continues to evolve. Here are trends to watch:

Emerging Platforms and Technologies

  • Short-Form Video: Integration with TikTok, Instagram Reels, and similar platforms

  • Virtual Reality: Distribution of immersive video experiences

  • Blockchain and NFTs: New ownership and monetization models

  • AI-Enhanced Distribution: Smart targeting and placement algorithms

  • Interactive Videos: Platforms supporting viewer choice and engagement

Forward-thinking distributors are already developing solutions for these emerging platforms and technologies.

Changing Distribution Models

The business of distribution continues to adapt:

  • More distributors moving toward subscription models

  • Increased focus on data and analytics

  • Greater integration between audio and video distribution

  • More tiered service options for different career stages

  • Partnership opportunities between distributors and marketing agencies

Artists should stay informed about new distribution models that might better serve their needs as these changes develop.

Final Thoughts: Creating a Distribution Strategy That Works for You

Successful music video distribution requires more than simply uploading your content to a service. It demands a thoughtful strategy aligned with your overall career goals, target audience, and budget realities.

For emerging artists, a balanced approach might include:

  • Starting with cost-effective distribution to core platforms

  • Reinvesting revenue into broader distribution as your audience grows

  • Experimenting with different distributors for different releases

  • Combining paid distribution with organic, direct-to-fan promotion

Remember that distribution is just one aspect of a comprehensive music marketing strategy. For a complete approach to getting your music to audiences, explore this guide to independent music distribution options for indie artists.

As the music industry continues to evolve, the most successful artists will be those who strategically leverage distribution partners to expand their reach while building direct connections with their audience. By choosing the right distribution partners and actively promoting your content post-release, you can maximize the impact of every music video you create.

Whether you're releasing your first music video or your fiftieth, the right distribution strategy can help ensure your creative work reaches its fullest potential audience, driving your music career forward in today's visual-first digital landscape.

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