Quick Definition
Music distribution is the process of getting music from the artist/label to the consumer. In the digital age, this means delivering audio files and metadata to Digital Service Providers (DSPs) like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon via an aggregator or distributor.
Music Distribution Explained
Historically, distribution meant shipping physical vinyl and CDs to record stores. Today, digital distribution is the standard. Artists cannot upload directly to most major DSPs; they must go through a distributor.
Distributors act as the pipeline. They ingest your assets, quality check them, deliver them to stores worldwide, collect the royalties earned, and pay them back to you (minus a fee or percentage).
Why It Matters
Without a distributor, your music does not exist on the major platforms where people listen. Choosing the right distributor (e.g., DistroKid vs. CD Baby vs. The Orchard) impacts your costs, features, and support.
Examples
DIY Distributors (open to all): DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby. Boutique/Indie Distributors (by application): AWAL, Symphonic. Major Distributors (invite only): The Orchard, ADA, Virgin Music Group.
How to Choose a Distributor
Consider their fee structure (annual fee vs. revenue cut), customer service reputation, and extra features (publishing admin, sync pitching, advances).
Related Terms
See also: DSP, Aggregator, Royalties, Metadata.
Track Your Reach with Soundcharts
Once distributed, your music is live in hundreds of countries. Soundcharts gives you a global dashboard to see where your music is taking off.