Almost every independent artist has faced this challenge at least once: how do you get your music from your home studio to Spotify, Apple Music, and dozens of other streaming platforms?
You can’t upload directly to these services. You need a music distribution company to act as your middleman.
However, choosing the exemplary music distribution service is tricky. With over a dozen major distributors offering different pricing models, features, and commission structures, the decision becomes overwhelming.
Some charge annual fees, others take percentages of your royalties. Some offer lightning-fast uploads while others provide extensive marketing tools. Pick wrong and you could lose money, face delayed releases, or struggle with poor customer support when issues arise.
This guide breaks down the top music distribution services in 2025, comparing their real costs, speed, features, and reliability to help you make an informed decision for your music career.
Top 7 Music Distribution Services at a Glance
Choosing a music distribution service shouldn’t feel like deciphering a foreign language. We’ve tested, compared, and analyzed dozens of platforms to bring you the seven that consistently deliver value for independent artists and music creators.
How we shortlisted these music distribution services
At a glance
| Service | Annual Cost | Commission | Speed to Spotify | Payment Splitting | Cover Songs | Customer Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DistroKid | $22.99 | 0% | 1-7 days | Yes ($10/collaborator) | $12/year per song | Email only |
| TuneCore | $14.99 | 0% | 5 days | Yes (free) | Yes | |
| CD Baby | $9.99 per release | 9% | 1-2 days | No | Yes | Email & phone |
| Symphonic | $19.99 | 0% | 3+ days | Yes (free) | Yes | Email & chat |
| LANDR | $23.99 | 0% | 5-7 days | Yes (free) | $15 per song | |
| Amuse | $19.99 | 0% | 2-7 days | Yes (15% for non-members) | Yes | |
| Too Lost | $19.99 | 0% | 1-3 days | Yes (free) | Yes |
Top 7 Music Distribution Services – Detailed Overview
DistroKid
DistroKid dominates the music distribution market by handling roughly one-third of all new music uploads globally. The platform built its reputation on simplicity and speed, offering unlimited uploads for a flat annual fee while maintaining direct relationships with major streaming services.
Key features
Pricing and plans
| Plan | Cost | Artists | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Musician | $22.99/year | 1 | Unlimited releases |
| Musician Plus | $35.99/year | 2 | Custom release dates, YouTube Money |
| Label | $79.99 – $1,199/year | 5-100 | Multi-artist management |
Additional costs: Cover songs ($12/year per song), Collaborator accounts ($10/year each)
Best use cases
Pros
✓ Fast distribution speeds
✓ Simple upload process
✓ Good streaming service integration
✓ Useful automatic splitting tools
Cons
✗ Limited human customer support
✗ Additional features increase costs quickly
✗ Music will be removed if payments stop
✗ Difficult to reach support when issues arise
TuneCore
TuneCore operates as one of the oldest digital distributors in the market, owned by Believe Distribution Services. The platform recently shifted from pure per-release pricing to subscription models while maintaining comprehensive analytics and publishing services that appeal to data-focused artists.
Key features
Pricing and plans
| Plan | Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Rising Artist | $14.99/year | Unlimited releases, one artist |
| Breakout Artist | $29.99/year | Custom dates, enhanced analytics |
| Professional | $49.99/year | Priority support, advanced tools |
| Per-release option | $14.99 singles, $29.99 albums | One-time payments |
Best use cases
Pros
✓ Excellent analytics and sales reports
✓ Publishing administration service
✓ Flexible pricing options
✓ Comprehensive royalty collection
Cons
✗ Variable customer support quality
✗ Less modern interface
✗ Advanced features require higher tiers
✗ Slow response times are reported
CD Baby
CD Baby pioneered independent digital distribution in 1998 and maintains its artist-focused approach despite multiple ownership changes. The platform continues operating on a per-release model while expanding into sync licensing and physical distribution services.
Key features
Pricing and plans
| Release Type | Base Cost |
|---|---|
| Single | $9.99 one-time |
| Album | $9.99 one-time |
Best use cases
Pros
✓ No recurring fees
✓ Comprehensive services included
✓ Physical and digital distribution
✓ Established sync licensing connections
Cons
✗ 9% commission reduces long-term earnings
✗ Some features lag behind newer platforms
✗ Customer support quality declined
✗ Interface feels dated
Symphonic Distribution
Symphonic Distribution operates a unique two-tier system that separates DIY artists from those ready for label-style services. The company specializes in Latin, urban, and electronic music genres while maintaining strong industry connections for sync and marketing opportunities.
Key features
Pricing and plans
| Plan | Cost | Commission | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter | $19.99/year | 0% | Unlimited releases, free payment splitting |
| Partner | Application required | 15% | Marketing support, playlist pitching, advances |
Best use cases
Pros
✓ Genuine industry connections
✓ Genre specialization and expertise
✓ Comprehensive royalty collection
✓ Marketing support for Partner artists
Cons
✗ Partner program requires approval
✗ Support quality depends on the plan tier
✗ Interface lacks modern features
✗ Not accessible to newer artists
LANDR Distribution
LANDR Distribution integrates seamlessly with LANDR’s broader creative ecosystem, combining distribution services with AI mastering, sample libraries, and collaboration tools. The platform targets bedroom producers and creators who want an all-in-one solution for music creation and distribution.
Key features
Pricing and plans
| Plan | Cost | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $23.99/year | Unlimited releases |
| Pro | $89/year | Faster distribution, enhanced analytics |
| Studio | $149/year | Sample library, unlimited mastering, collaboration tools |
Best use cases
Pros
✓ Integrated production-to-distribution workflow
✓ Valuable mastering service included
✓ Extensive sample library access
✓ Good collaboration features
Cons
✗ Limited promotional and marketing tools
✗ Slower distribution speeds reported
✗ May overwhelm artists needing basic distribution
✗ Production focus over marketing
Amuse
Amuse operates with a mobile-first philosophy, allowing artists to manage their entire music career through a smartphone app. The platform combines traditional distribution with data-driven artist investment opportunities through their Fast Forward program.
Key features
Pricing and plans
| Plan | Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Boost | $19.99/year | Unlimited releases, 0% commission |
| Pro | $59.99/year | Faster distribution, custom labels, enhanced support |
Best use cases
Pros
✓ Excellent mobile app interface
✓ Real investment opportunities through Fast Forward
✓ AI guidance for release strategies
✓ Modern, convenient user experience
Cons
✗ Mobile-first may frustrate desktop users
✗ Slow customer support during peak periods
✗ Higher-tier plans are needed for advanced features
✗ Limited desktop functionality
Too Lost
Too Lost positions itself as a comprehensive distributor with advanced fraud prevention measures and extensive outlet reach. The platform distributes to over 450 services, including non-traditional outlets, while offering detailed analytics and social media monitoring.
Key features
Pricing and plans
| Plan | Cost | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Artist | $19.99/year | Unlimited releases, 0% commission |
| Label | $35.99/year | Multi-artist management |
| Custom services | Negotiated rates | For qualifying artists |
Best use cases
Pros
✓ Extensive distribution reach to unique outlets
✓ Strong fraud prevention protects legitimate artists
✓ Deeper analytics than most competitors
✓ Helpful bulk import for platform switchers
Cons
✗ Relatively new with a less established industry reputation
✗ Advanced features require additional monthly fees
✗ Customer support lacks a long-established track record
✗ Some unique outlets may not generate significant revenue
Which is the Best Music Distribution Service?
The “best” music distribution service depends on your specific needs. TuneCore offers the lowest entry cost at $14.99 annually with excellent analytics. DistroKid leads the market for prolific artists despite higher total costs. CD Baby suits occasional releases with one-time payments. Symphonic excels for established artists seeking industry connections.
For most independent artists starting, TuneCore or Too Lost provide the best value. Artists focused on collaboration should consider platforms with free payment splitting like Symphonic or LANDR. Those prioritizing speed will find DistroKid hard to beat.
Match the service to your release frequency, budget, and collaboration needs. Don’t chase the cheapest option without considering total costs and features you’ll actually use.
Sreyashi Chatterjee is a SaaS content marketing consultant. When she is not writing or thinking about writing, she is watching Netflix or reading a thriller novel while sipping coffee.