Top Music Distribution Companies: The Ultimate Guide for Artists in 2024
In today's digital music landscape, getting your music onto streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and hundreds of other services worldwide is essential for any artist looking to build a career. Music distribution companies serve as the crucial bridge between independent artists and these platforms, making them a vital part of any musician's strategy.
Whether you're releasing your first single or you're a seasoned artist with multiple albums, choosing the right music distribution service can significantly impact your reach, revenue, and career growth. This comprehensive guide explores the top music distribution companies in 2024, breaking down their features, pricing models, and helping you determine which is the best fit for your unique needs.
What Are Music Distribution Companies?
Before diving into the top companies, let's clarify what music distribution services actually do. Digital music distributors are platforms that deliver your music to online stores and streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, TIDAL, and many others. Without these distributors, independent artists would have no way to get their music onto these platforms.
Modern distribution companies typically offer services beyond just distribution, including:
Royalty collection
Analytics and reporting
Marketing tools
Playlist pitching
Cover song licensing
Advance funding
Physical distribution (CDs, vinyl)
Now, let's explore the industry leaders and what sets them apart from one another.
The Top Music Distribution Companies in 2024
1. DistroKid
Pricing: Annual subscription starting at $19.99/year
Revenue split: Artists keep 100% of royalties
DistroKid has revolutionized the digital distribution landscape with its straightforward, affordable pricing model. For a single annual fee, artists can upload unlimited songs and albums to all major streaming platforms.
Key features:
Unlimited music uploads for one annual fee
Quick distribution (often within 1-2 days)
Split payments between collaborators
Automatic music video distribution to YouTube
HyperFollow marketing links
"Leave a Legacy" option for music to remain on platforms after account cancellation
Cover song licensing via Soundrop
Customizable release dates
Best for: Prolific artists who release music frequently and want a simple, cost-effective distribution solution without sacrificing quality.
DistroKid's efficiency and affordability have made it a favorite among independent artists. Their fast turnaround times and ability to handle unlimited releases for one price give it an edge for musicians who produce music regularly.
2. TuneCore
Pricing: Pay-per-release model or subscription plans starting at $14.99/year
Revenue split: Artists keep 100% of royalties
TuneCore is one of the most established digital distributors in the industry, with a reputation for reliability and comprehensive service offerings.
Key features:
Extensive distribution network (150+ digital stores and streaming platforms)
Social media monetization (TikTok, Instagram, Facebook)
Publishing administration services
Advance program for qualifying artists
Physical distribution services
Sync licensing opportunities
Detailed sales and streaming analytics
YouTube Content ID
Best for: Career-focused artists who value comprehensive services and detailed analytics, and who don't mind paying per release for quality distribution.
TuneCore's longevity in the industry and partnerships with major platforms make it a trusted choice for serious artists. Their new subscription plans have made them more competitive with services like DistroKid.
3. CD Baby
Pricing: One-time fee per release ($9.95 for singles, $29 for albums)
Revenue split: Artists keep 91% of royalties (9% commission)
CD Baby is one of the oldest independent music distributors, originally focused on physical CD sales but now a major player in digital distribution.
Key features:
One-time payment for lifetime distribution
Physical distribution and manufacturing (CDs, vinyl)
Sync licensing opportunities
Publishing administration
Professional mastering services
CD Baby Pro (additional publishing services)
Promotional tools and resources
Free UPC and ISRC codes
Best for: Artists who release music less frequently and want a "set it and forget it" distribution option with no recurring fees.
CD Baby's pay-once model is appealing for artists who don't release often, and their additional services like physical distribution make them a well-rounded option for artists who want physical merchandise as well as digital distribution.
4. United Masters
Pricing: Free tier with 90/10 revenue split or $59.99/year premium tier with 100% royalties
Revenue split: Artists keep 90% (free) or 100% (premium) of royalties
UnitedMasters has gained significant attention for its artist-friendly approach and focus on connecting musicians with brand partnership opportunities.
Key features:
Brand partnership opportunities
Direct-to-fan features
Data-driven audience insights
Advanced analytics dashboard
Select program for rising artists
Social media monetization
Marketing and promotional tools
Music video distribution
Best for: Artists looking to leverage their music for brand deals and commercial opportunities while maintaining independence.
UnitedMasters stands out for its focus on helping artists monetize through brand partnerships. Their connections with major brands like ESPN, NBA, and TikTok create unique opportunities for artists on their platform.
5. AWAL
Pricing: No upfront fees, but selective application process
Revenue split: Artists keep 85% of royalties
AWAL (Artists Without A Label) takes a more curated approach to distribution, working with selected artists rather than offering open access to all.
Key features:
Advance funding opportunities
Global marketing support
Radio promotion
Playlist pitching
A&R support
Data-driven insights and analytics
Artist development resources
Potential label services for top performers
Best for: Established independent artists or emerging artists with demonstrable growth who want label-like services while maintaining independence.
AWAL functions more like a hybrid between a distributor and a label, offering marketing support and development resources that many other distributors don't provide. Their selective approach means they invest more in the artists they accept.
6. Ditto Music
Pricing: Annual subscription starting at $19/year
Revenue split: Artists keep 100% of royalties
Ditto Music offers distribution services at competitive prices while providing additional tools for artist development.
Key features:
Unlimited releases on their standard plan
Record label in a box service
Publishing administration
Chart registration
Distribution to over 160 stores worldwide
DMCA protection
Ditto Music Publishing services
24/7 support
Best for: Artists looking for reliable distribution with the option to create their own label imprint or access publishing services.
Ditto's "Record Label in a Box" service makes it unique, offering artists the ability to establish their own label structure, which can be valuable for those thinking about signing other artists in the future.
7. Amuse
Pricing: Free tier available, Pro subscription at $59.99/year
Revenue split: Artists keep 100% of royalties
Amuse has gained popularity for its free distribution option and data-driven approach to artist development.
Key features:
Free distribution tier
Fast track releases with Pro subscription
Split payments with collaborators
Royalty advances based on data predictions
Team app for artist management
Data-driven scouting for their label arm
Detailed analytics
Marketing support for selected artists
Best for: New artists on limited budgets who want to test the waters with free distribution or artists who appreciate a data-driven approach.
Amuse's mobile-first approach and free tier make it accessible to artists just starting out. Their data analysis can help identify promising artists, who may receive offers for advances or more comprehensive services.
8. ONErpm
Pricing: Free tier available, premium tiers with varying commission rates
Revenue split: Varies by tier (70-100% to artist)
ONErpm offers tiered services that scale with an artist's career, from basic distribution to full label services.
Key features:
Multiple service tiers based on artist needs
YouTube channel management and monetization
Marketing and promotion for higher tiers
Advanced analytics platform
Global presence with offices in multiple countries
Fan engagement tools
Video distribution
Playlist pitching
Best for: Artists at various career stages who want a service that can scale with their growth, especially those looking for international reach.
ONErpm's global presence and tiered approach make it suitable for artists at different stages of their careers. Their focus on YouTube monetization is also valuable for artists with a strong video presence.
9. Symphonic Distribution
Pricing: Annual fee starting at $19.99 per single or $29.99 per album
Revenue split: Artists keep 100% of royalties
Symphonic Distribution offers comprehensive services with a focus on music industry education and artist development.
Key features:
Pre-save and smart links
Neighboring rights collection
Publishing administration
Marketing services and promotional support
Sync licensing opportunities
Video distribution
Analytics and reporting
Educational resources and workshops
Best for: Serious independent artists and small labels who want comprehensive services and educational resources to help grow their careers.
Symphonic takes an educational approach, offering resources to help artists understand the industry better. Their application-based model ensures they can provide quality service to all accepted artists.
10. RouteNote
Pricing: Free tier with 85/15 split or Premium tier at $9.99 per single/$29.99 per album with 100% royalties
Revenue split: Artists keep 85% (free) or 100% (premium) of royalties
RouteNote provides flexible options for artists, with both free and premium distribution models available.
Key features:
Choice between free or premium distribution
SoundCloud monetization
YouTube Content ID
Ability to switch between free and premium models
Distribution to over 95 platforms
Analytics dashboard
Weekly payments
No hidden fees
Best for: Artists on tight budgets who want the flexibility to choose between a revenue-share model or paying upfront for distribution.
RouteNote's flexibility in allowing artists to switch between free and premium models makes it an attractive option for those whose needs or finances may change over time.
How to Choose the Right Music Distribution Company
With so many excellent distribution options available, how do you decide which one is right for your needs? Consider these factors when making your selection:
Cost Structure and Budget
Distribution companies typically follow one of these pricing models:
Subscription model: Pay annually for unlimited releases (DistroKid, Ditto Music)
Pay-per-release: One-time fee per single or album (CD Baby, Symphonic)
Free with commission: No upfront cost but the distributor takes a percentage of royalties (RouteNote free tier, UnitedMasters free tier)
Hybrid/tiered models: Offering various combinations of the above (TuneCore, ONErpm)
Consider your release frequency and budget. If you release music often, subscription models usually offer better value. If you release rarely but want your music available forever, a one-time payment model might be more cost-effective.
Release Volume
How frequently do you plan to release music? This is perhaps the most important question when choosing between distributors.
Artists who release multiple projects per year typically benefit from unlimited release models like DistroKid
Artists who release one album every couple of years might save money with a pay-per-release service like CD Baby
Additional Services Needed
Different distributors excel in different areas beyond basic distribution:
Physical distribution: CD Baby and Ditto are strong options
Publishing administration: TuneCore, CD Baby, and Songtrust offer robust publishing services
Marketing support: AWAL and UnitedMasters provide more comprehensive marketing assistance
Brand partnerships: UnitedMasters specializes in connecting artists with brands
Advances/funding: AWAL and Amuse offer advances to qualifying artists
User Interface and Ease of Use
The platform's user experience can significantly impact your satisfaction. Consider:
Dashboard usability and analytics accessibility
Mobile app availability (Amuse and UnitedMasters have strong mobile experiences)
Ease of uploading and managing releases
Payment withdrawal processes
Speed of Distribution
How quickly do you need your music on platforms? Some services offer:
Standard distribution: Usually 1-3 weeks for most services
Rush distribution: DistroKid typically delivers within 1-2 days
Scheduled releases: All major distributors allow you to set future release dates
Royalty Payment Frequency
Payment schedules vary between distributors:
Monthly payments (DistroKid, CD Baby, TuneCore)
Quarterly payments (some tiers of various services)
Payment thresholds (minimum amount required before payment is issued)
Artists who rely on streaming income for living expenses should prioritize distributors with frequent payment schedules and low payment thresholds.
Beyond Distribution: Building Your Online Presence
While choosing the right distribution company is crucial, it's just one aspect of your digital music strategy. To maximize your reach and impact, you'll need a comprehensive online presence that includes:
A professional musician website to serve as your hub
Strong social media profiles across relevant platforms
Email marketing to connect directly with fans
Content strategy for regular engagement
Your distribution strategy should work in concert with these other elements to create a cohesive professional presence that helps you build a sustainable career.
Common Questions About Music Distribution
Do I Need a Music Distributor?
In short, yes. Unless you're signed to a label that handles distribution, you need a distribution service to get your music onto streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and others. These platforms don't accept direct submissions from independent artists—they work exclusively with authorized distributors.
Can I Switch Distributors Later?
Yes, but the process varies. You'll need to:
Sign up with your new distributor
Upload your catalog to the new service
Take down your music from the old service (timing this correctly is crucial)
Ensure you maintain the same ISRC codes to preserve your streaming stats
Some distributors like CD Baby make this more complicated as they charge one-time fees for "permanent" distribution. Always read the fine print about what happens if you want to leave a service.
What About YouTube Distribution?
Most major distributors now offer some form of YouTube monetization, either through:
Content ID (to identify and monetize your music when used in others' videos)
Direct channel monetization (for your official music videos)
Art tracks (automatically generated videos with your artwork and music)
DistroKid, CD Baby, TuneCore, and ONErpm all offer strong YouTube monetization services.
What About Social Media Monetization?
As platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook become increasingly important for music discovery, most distributors now offer social media monetization. This ensures you get paid when your music is used in videos on these platforms. UnitedMasters, DistroKid, and TuneCore are particularly strong in this area.
Making Your Final Decision
After evaluating all these factors, you might find that different distributors excel in different areas that matter to you. Many successful independent artists actually use multiple distribution services for different purposes:
A subscription service like DistroKid for frequent releases
CD Baby for releases they want permanent distribution for
A specialized service like AWAL for projects that might benefit from additional marketing
There's no one-size-fits-all solution, and your needs may evolve as your career progresses. The good news is that the competitive nature of the music distribution industry means that all these companies continue to improve their offerings to win your business.
Conclusion: The Future of Music Distribution
The landscape of music distribution continues to evolve rapidly. Recent trends include:
Integration of distribution with other services (marketing, publishing, etc.)
More data-driven tools to help artists understand and grow their audience
Expansion of monetization beyond traditional streaming into social media, gaming, and other platforms
Advances and financial services for independent artists
The rise of independent music distribution has democratized access to the music industry in unprecedented ways. Artists today have more control over their careers than ever before, with the ability to reach global audiences without label backing.
The most successful independent artists approach distribution as just one piece of their overall strategy, combining it with strong branding, marketing, and direct fan engagement. By choosing the right distribution partners and leveraging their services effectively, you can build a sustainable career on your own terms.
Remember that as your needs change, don't hesitate to reevaluate your distribution strategy. The best music distributors for you today might not be the same ones that serve you best tomorrow. Stay informed about new features and services, and be willing to adapt your approach as the industry and your career evolve.