Getting your music onto streaming platforms is easier than ever—but with so many distributors promising “the best deal,” it’s hard to know which one truly supports independent artists. In this comparison, we’ll explore the leading music distribution companies—highlighting their costs, pros, and hidden limitations—before introducing a more artist-friendly alternative designed to help you grow authentically.
1. DistroKid
DistroKid is one of the most popular music distribution platforms, offering unlimited uploads for £17.99 per year with fast delivery to Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. Its dashboard is simple and efficient, making it ideal for artists who release music frequently.
However, the annual subscription model means your songs could be removed if you stop paying, and features like YouTube Content ID or Shazam recognition cost extra. While convenient for prolific creators, DistroKid can become costly for musicians who only release occasionally or prefer a one-time investment model.
2. TuneCore
TuneCore is a well-established distribution platform known for its solid reputation and detailed analytics. Prices range from £7.99 to £30 per single or album, but each release requires an annual renewal, which can quickly add up as your catalogue grows.
While it offers a professional experience and reliable delivery, the recurring fees and occasionally slow support make it better suited for established artists who already generate consistent income from their music, rather than newcomers seeking a low-maintenance solution.
3. The Orchard / Sony Distribution
The Orchard which is owned by Sony Music operates on a commission-based model and offers impressive global reach, playlist pitching, and marketing support. However, it’s an invite-only platform, typically reserved for established labels and artists with proven traction. While its professional network and resources are powerful, independent musicians rarely gain direct access—making it an excellent option in theory, but largely out of reach for most self-releasing artists.
4. EMPIRE, Believe, & Revelator
Platforms like EMPIRE, Believe, and Revelator operate more like label partners than standard distributors. They offer advanced services such as sync placements, branding support, and global promotion, making them appealing for artists seeking major-level exposure.
This comes at a cost—these companies often take a significant revenue share (20–50%) or impose minimum payout thresholds based on streaming performance. While powerful for artists with proven momentum, they’re less practical for beginners looking to retain full control and profits.
5. Other Global Platforms
Platforms like Zojak, Zebralution, Qanawat, Zox, Xelon, and Yandex Music Distribution serve specific regions and genres. They’re great for expanding into niche markets (like Africa, Asia, or Latin America) but usually involve complex contracts, variable fees, and regional licensing restrictions.
Free Music Distribution Options
Some companies promote “free music distribution,” but they often take a percentage of your royalties (typically 15–30%), limit features like YouTube monetization, or require upgrades to keep your songs online permanently.
Free platforms may work for testing releases—but if you care about control, transparency, and long-term presence, paid models often offer better reliability and ownership security.
The Carved Culture Alternative
We offer something most distributors don’t — genuine artist support, creativity, and lasting visibility. Instead of relying on automated uploads or annual subscriptions, our Music Marketing Packages provide real, human promotion and lifetime exposure.
You can list your song on our platform for sale and keep 50% of all profits for only £30, boost your reach with a featured promotional blog post for £100, have us produce an instrumental cover for our YouTube channel for £150, or go professional with a full artist website for £500.
Every package is a one-time investment — no hidden fees, no renewals, and you always retain 100% of your rights. We don’t just distribute your music — we help it grow, connect, and inspire through authentic community-driven promotion.
Why Choose Carved Culture?
Unlike mass distributors which charge ongoing annual fees and remove your music if you stop paying, Carved Culture offers a one-time setup with lifetime exposure. You keep 100% ownership of your music, and every song can be permanently listed on our platform—no renewals, no hidden costs.
Beyond distribution, we promote your work through blogs, YouTube features, and authentic storytelling to help you build real fan connections. Instead of being one of millions in an algorithm, you become part of a community that values creativity and individuality.
