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Alexandre Baumont

Head Of Marketing - Wiseband

8 Feb, 2023

Discover Music Distribution

To begin, music distribution is the process of making recorded music available to the public through various channels and platforms. In short this can include physical retail stores, online streaming services, digital download stores, and radio airplay. The goal of music distribution is to reach as many listeners as possible and make the music easily accessible to them.

A brief history of Music Distribution

First of all, the history of music distribution can be traced back to the late 19th century with the introduction of phonograph records. Over the years, new technologies and distribution methods emerged, such as the compact cassette, 8-track cartridge, compact disc, and digital downloads. Afterwards, in the late 20th and early 21st century, the rise of the internet led to the introduction of online music stores and the rise of streaming services, such as Spotify and Apple Music, which have disrupted the traditional distribution model. Today, music is primarily distributed through streaming platforms, with physical retail playing a smaller role in the distribution of music.

Why use music distribution?

  1. Reach a wider audience: By distributing music through various channels and platforms, artists and record labels are able to reach a wider audience and make your music accessible to more people.
  2. Generate revenue: Music distribution allows for the sale and streaming of music, which generates revenue for you. This is crucial for the financial success of the artist and the sustainability of the music industry.
  3. Facilitate promotion: Music distribution is an essential part of promoting and marketing an artist or album. By making the music easily accessible, we can help generate interest and buzz, which can lead to increased exposure and recognition.
  4. Enhance distribution and marketing efforts: we handle the technical aspects of music distribution and marketing, allowing artists to focus on their creative process. We also have the resources and expertise to ensure that the music reaches the right outlets and is marketed effectively.

Overall, music distribution plays a crucial role in the success of an artist or record label, as it helps you reach a wider audience, generate revenue, promote your music, and enhance your distribution and marketing efforts.

how to succeed in my music distribution?

Here are a few tips to help you succeed in music distribution:

  1. Quality & quantity: Make sure that your music is of high quality, both in terms of production value and musical content. Also keep in mind that it is important to keep people’s heads busy. There are a lot of releases every week… People can quickly get lost.
  2. Marketing and promotion: Utilize social media, email marketing, and other digital channels to promote your music and build a fanbase.
  3. Networking: Connect with other musicians, industry professionals, and fans to build a supportive community around your music.
  4. Unique branding: Develop a unique brand image that sets you apart from others and helps you stand out in a crowded market.
  5. Consistent release schedule: Regularly release new music and keep your fans engaged with your content.
  6. Metrics and analytics: Use metrics and analytics to track the success of your music distribution efforts and make informed decisions about your strategy.
  7. Adapt to changing trends: Stay up to date with changes in the music industry, and be willing to adapt your strategy as needed to stay ahead of the curve.

Remember that success in music distribution is often the result of a combination of factors, and it can take time and persistence to achieve your goals.
For more information, we have written an article dedicated to this.

Can I distribute my music on stores/streaming platforms without a distributor?

No, you cannot distribute your music to Spotify directly without a distributor. Spotify, like most music streaming platforms, works with authorized distributors such as Wiseband who are responsible for uploading and managing the music on their platform. This is because the process of uploading music to these platforms and ensuring that all the necessary rights and permissions are in place can be complex, and it is easier for the platforms to work with a small number of trusted intermediaries rather than directly with individual artists…

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