DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby are the three distributors most independent artists start with. Their pricing and models shifted significantly in 2025-2026. Here is an honest comparison for each career stage.
The best TuneCore alternatives for independent artists in 2026. Real pricing, royalty splits, payout speeds, and honest pros and cons for DistroKid, CD Baby, AWAL, UnitedMasters, and more.
An in-depth comparison of major music distributors to help you choose the best option for your releases.
Aggregator and distributor are often used interchangeably, but they mean different things depending on context. This guide clarifies the distinction and explains how it affects what you actually need for your music career.
DistroKid is the largest music distribution service by artist count, with over 2 million artists using it to distribute to Spotify, Apple Music, and 150+ platforms. The flat annual fee and unlimited uploads make it attractive. But the pricing is more complex than it appears once you account for add-ons. This guide covers everything you need to know before subscribing.
A data-backed breakdown of when to release music in 2026. Learn which months give independent artists the best shot at playlist placement, algorithmic traction, and listener engagement.
TuneCore is a digital music distributor owned by Believe, offering unlimited distribution to 150+ stores starting at $24.99/year with 100% streaming royalty retention. Known for strong publishing administration and granular analytics. Based in the United States, founded in 2005. Keeps 20% of social platform revenue (TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook).
TuneCore Sync is a creative pitching and licensing service available to TuneCore Publishing Administration clients. With over 30,000 composers and 15 million tracks, the service pitches independent music to music supervisors for film, TV, advertising, video games, trailers, and digital media. Takes a 50% commission on sync fees while artists retain 100% of their copyrights.
Believe is a French music distribution company founded in 2005 by Denis Ladegaillerie, headquartered in Paris. Publicly traded on Euronext Paris. One of the world's largest music distribution companies with offices in 50+ countries and distribution to 100+ streaming platforms worldwide. Holds #1 position in Apple and Spotify Preferred Partner Program. Three divisions: Believe Label and Artist Solutions (for labels), Believe Artist Services (bespoke for top artists), and TuneCore (DIY self-service). Offers audio and video distribution, audience development, music publishing, sync licensing, financial support and royalty advances, marketing strategies, and A&R. Custom deals with no public pricing for Believe services. Not open-signup for Believe services (use TuneCore for DIY). Acquired TuneCore. Best for established labels and artists who need full-service distribution and marketing support.
