What Is Music Distribution?
Music distribution delivers your tracks to streaming platforms with proper metadata, ISRC codes, and royalty collection.
DistroKid vs. TuneCore vs. CD Baby: Which Is Best in 2026?
Each distributor has a distinct pricing model and strength — choose based on your release frequency and publishing needs.
Step-by-Step: Upload Your Music in 7 Days
A methodical upload process ensures your release goes live without delays, takedowns, or metadata errors.
Spotify for Artists: Claiming Your Profile and Accessing Analytics
Spotify for Artists gives you editorial pitch access, analytics, and profile customization — claim it before release day.
Playlist Pitching: How to Submit to Spotify's Editorial Playlists
Spotify's editorial playlists reach millions of listeners — a 7-day advance submission is your only window.
Release Strategy: How Far in Advance Should You Schedule?
Schedule releases 2-3 weeks ahead to ensure full platform availability and maximize editorial consideration.
How to Distribute Music to Spotify — Step-by-Step
- 1 Choose a distributor
- 2 Prepare your audio files
- 3 Add complete metadata
- 4 Upload cover art
- 5 Register ISRC codes
- 6 Schedule your release
- 7 Claim your Spotify for Artists profile
Ready to release your next track worldwide?
Browse Free DownloadsFrequently Asked Questions About Music Distribution to Spotify
- How long does it take for music to go live on Spotify?
- With a music distributor, music typically goes live on Spotify and Apple Music within 5-7 business days after approval. Some distributors offer expedited processing for an additional fee. Schedule your release at least 2 weeks in advance to ensure full platform availability and editorial playlist consideration.
- Does DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby take percentage of streaming royalties?
- DistroKid takes 0% of streaming royalties — you keep 100% (they charge an annual flat fee). TuneCore and CD Baby also let you keep 100% of streaming royalties but charge a per-release upload fee. CD Baby's Pro option ($49.95/album) adds publishing administration and PRO royalty collection for a one-time fee.
- How much does Spotify pay per stream in 2026?
- Spotify pays approximately $0.003–$0.005 per stream on average, ranging from $0.001 (non-exclusive distributors) to $0.01 (direct major label deals). Per-stream rates vary based on listener location, subscription type (free vs. premium), and the revenue pool for that month. 1 million streams typically generates $3,000–$5,000 for the rights holder.
- How do I get my music on Spotify editorial playlists?
- Submit your unreleased track through Spotify for Artists at least 7 days before your release date. In the submission form, include: genre, mood, energy level, similar artists, and why the track fits the playlist. Spotify's editors review tracks for 37 official playlists including RapCaviar, New Music Friday, and A-List Pop. Approval rates are under 5% — focus on building organic playlist followers as well.
- Can I release music independently without a label?
- Yes — independent distribution services enable full independent releases without a record label. You retain 100% of your rights and royalties. Many independent artists built million-stream catalogs independently before attracting label interest on their own terms.