Choosing the right distributor is crucial for your music. In this short guide, we'll explore key factors to consider when selecting a distributor that aligns with your needs and maximizes your potential for success in the music industry.
1- Choosing the Right Distributor
Your distributor is your gateway to numerous platforms and services, but not all distributors are the same. Whether you're a solo artist or part of a larger teamonsider factors like team size, personalized support, and seamless collaboration to ensure they meet your needs.
2- Broad Distribution Reach
Choose a distributor with preferred partner status at major DSPs like Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, and YouTube. Verify they provide music at the highest standards and offer leading licensing terms across various digital music services.
3- Clarifying Objectives and Deal Structures
What kind of deal are you looking for? Whether it's starting your own label, seeking an artist direct deal, or launching a brand, clarify your objectives. Negotiate terms that align with your goals, whether it's exclusivity or a more open arrangement.
4- Efficient Content Management
Look for a music distributor with a comprehensive content management system that streamlines your digital supply chain. Ensure they offer real-time deliveries and complete control over your catalog and new releases.
5- Time Zones and Support
A distributor that offers round-the-clock support or aligns their operating hours with yours can significantly enhance your overall experience and streamline distribution operations.
Ensure that they align with your schedule to expedite communication and problem-solving. Assess their availability for customer support to ensure timely assistance with any challenges you encounter
6- Flexibility in Partnerships
A distributor that understands and supports your existing partnerships can contribute to the success and growth of your music across multiple platforms.
If maintaining direct deals with DSPs, consider a distributor's flexibility in accommodating existing partnerships while offering additional services to enhance your distribution efforts.
7- Audience Strategy Expertise
When evaluating a music distributor, consider their audience strategy capabilities. Look for a distributor that thinks like a fan, artist, creative, and marketer all at once. Assess whether their Audience Strategy team can collaborate with you to shape, nurture, and grow your artist's audience across all media and digital platforms.
8- Media Strategy
Seek for a distributor with a global network of press, radio, and TV partners to position your music effectively. Look for tailored publicity campaigns covering premieres, bios, translations, exclusives, interviews, and live performances. Ensure they plug into commercial and speciality stations for maximum exposure and impact.
This guide is based on a recent workshop on "Music Distribution Strategies" led by Connie Chow (FUGA), exclusively designed for shesaid.so members and allies.
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