What Is Music Distribution?
A Guide for Artists
Do I need a distributor to get my music on Spotify?
In most cases, yes. Spotify and the other major streaming services take new releases from distributors and labels rather than straight from artists. If you’re signed to a label, it usually arranges distribution for you. If you’re independent, you choose a distributor and agree its terms, which commonly means a fee, a share of income or both.
How a release travels
- Your release
A release is the audio plus its artwork and details, such as titles, credits and codes. Getting those right at the start helps every store list it correctly.
- Sent to stores
A distributor delivers the release to streaming services and download stores. Each service then makes it available on the date that was set.
- Streams and sales
Each stream or download is counted by the service that played or sold it. The services report that use to the distributor.
- Income back to you
The services pay the distributor for that use. The distributor passes the money on under the terms you agreed.
Can I distribute my music myself?
Yes. Many distributors work directly with independent artists. You upload the audio, artwork and credits, choose a release date, and the distributor delivers the release to the services you pick. You can also sell music through your own website or direct-to-fan platforms. Either way, accurate credits and codes are your job, because they decide where the money goes.
What is an ISRC code?
An ISRC, or International Standard Recording Code, is a 12-character code that identifies one specific recording. A remix, a live version or a new recording of the same song each gets its own. Your distributor or label usually assigns them, and streaming services and collecting societies use them to match plays to the right recording and its owners.
How does music distribution work?
You send your distributor the finished audio, the artwork and the release details. The distributor delivers the release to each streaming service and store you choose. When people stream or buy it, the stores pay the distributor, and the distributor pays you on the terms you agreed.
What is a UPC code for music?
A UPC is the barcode number that identifies a whole release: a single, an EP or an album. Each recording on it has its own ISRC, and each song has its own ISWC. Distributors usually supply the UPC when you release.
Questions
How does music distribution work?
A distributor sends your audio, artwork and release details to streaming services and stores ahead of the release date. It then collects what the release earns and passes it on to you. Our music distribution page goes through each step, from preparing the release to delivery.
More guides: What is music publishing? and Your music rights, explained.
Talk to us about your music
Send us a demo, or contact us with a question about distribution.