Artists’ partnerships with music distributors allow them to promote music to a broad audience around the world. Music distributors handle all the steps, from uploading music to streaming platforms to promoting the artist and finding a target audience.
Reasons why artists partner with music distributors
The right distributor can greatly expand an artist’s reach and influence by being a crucial link between their music and their audience. The following are considerations for why artists need distributors:
- Scope of services: music distributors can handle digital and physical distribution of albums, marketing and advertising services, and more;
- Reputation and track record: reputable distributors have a proven track record of successful music promotion and sales, backed by positive feedback and statistics that demonstrate effective partnership results;
- Support and communication: a responsive customer service team can help promptly resolve any problems an artist may have at any release stage.
In addition, distributors handle all financial aspects, from paying royalties to artists to collecting commissions for services rendered. All of this makes working with distributors an integral part of promoting music and finding a target audience.
When and how to start cooperating with a music distributor
According to MIDiA Research, partnering with distributors is essential for independent artists who want to level up with the major labels. The primary purpose of working with a music distributor is to spread and monetize music. However, in most cases, it is possible to start cooperating with a distributor if you meet the conditions for entry to the music platform and the distributor’s requirements.
There are also different types of distribution contracts, depending on the artist’s needs and the distribution company’s strategy. Artists can choose digital distribution on platforms like Apple Music, Spotify, or YouTube Music, physical distribution in stores, and exclusive or non-exclusive distribution. Exclusive distribution means the distributor has exclusive rights to distribute the artist’s music. Non-exclusive means that the artist can cooperate with several distributors at the same time.
Pros of releasing music by a distributor
The main benefit of music distribution services is a significant increase in reach. With digital distribution, your music can be made available worldwide on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music, giving you a broader audience than traditional distribution methods. Other pros of working with a distributor:
- Speed: digital distribution allows for almost instantaneous distribution of your music, so you can get it to your fans faster than you would with physical distribution;
- Cost-effective: digital music distribution is generally more economical than physical distribution methods such as pressing CDs or vinyl.
- Control and analytics: digital music distribution gives you total control over your music, including prices, release dates, and where it is available.
Many digital music distribution services also provide analytics that let you know who is listening to your music, where, and how they interact with your music. With physical distribution, artists don’t have that option.
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