Choosing the right music distribution service is key for independent artists. A good platform means fair pricing, broad reach and fast payments, a bad one means hidden fees and slow payouts.
Disc Makers notes that high-quality distribution services must provide comprehensive analytics, payment transparency, and effective customer support. Here’s what to consider when choosing a music distributor.
Fair Pricing and Full Royalties
Not all music distribution services charge the same way. Some have flat fees, others take a percentage of royalties and reduce artist earnings.
Common Pricing Models
- Flat-fee distributors. DistroKid, TuneCore, Ditto charge an annual fee for unlimited releases.
- Revenue-sharing models. CD Baby and RouteNote Free take a cut of royalties, the more you earn the more they take.
- Pay-per-release services. MusicAlligator lets you pay only when you release music and keep 100% of earnings.
If you release music occasionally a pay-per-release model saves you money over time.
Wide Distribution Across Platforms
A music distribution platform should put your music on all major streaming services for maximum exposure.
Key Platforms to Consider
- Mainstream services – Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube, Tidal.
- Niche and regional platforms – Deezer, Boomplay, Anghami, Audiomack.
MusicAlligator distributes to both major and niche platforms so you reach more listeners.
Analytics and Performance Tracking
A good music distributor should provide detailed insights to help you track your audience and improve your marketing strategy.
Key Metrics to Track
- Listener demographics. Age, location and listening habits.
- Platform performance. Which streaming services get the most plays?
- Playlist placements. How do playlists impact your streaming numbers?
MusicAlligator offers advanced analytics so you can make data-driven decisions about your releases.
What to Look for in a Payment System
- Regular payouts. Some platforms delay payments for up to 90 days. Look for distributors with monthly or faster payouts.
- No high withdrawal limits. Some services require artists to accumulate $50-$100 before withdrawing.
- Clear earnings reports. MusicAlligator provides full payout breakdowns with no hidden fees.
Choose a distributor with consistent payment schedules and low withdrawal limits.
Customer Support
Technical issues and payment delays can impact artists. A good music distribution platform should have fast and helpful support
What Good Support Looks Like
- Quick response times. Delays can affect music releases.
- Multiple contact options. Email, live chat and phone support.
- Artist-focused assistance. Some platforms provide advice on music promotion and distribution.
MusicAlligator offers responsive support so you get help when you need it.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Music Distributor
A good music distribution service should have:
- Fair pricing with full royalties – No extra fees;
- Broad platform reach – Access to all major streaming services;
- Analytics – Insights to track performance;
- Fast, transparent payouts – No delays or high withdrawal limits;
- Good support – A team that helps artists.
For independent musicians looking for full control over their earnings and distribution, MusicAlligator is the best choice. Unlike many others, it offers pay-per-release pricing, full royalty retention and in-depth analytics tools.
The right music distributor makes a difference — choose wisely.