When it comes to getting your music heard, it’s not just about recording a great track, it’s also about making sure it lands in the right places.
That’s where music aggregators and distribution companies come in. These platforms bridge the gap between independent artists and streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and beyond.
Instead of emailing every platform individually (which would be a nightmare), you can upload once, and your music is distributed everywhere your fans are listening.
Some services even go the extra mile by offering promotional tools, analytics, royalty collection, and connections to sync licensing.
With so many options out there, choosing the right distributor can feel like a maze, but don’t worry, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the best music aggregators and distribution companies to help you spread your sound far and wide.
Best Music Aggregators & Distribution Companies
1. DistroKid
DistroKid is a fan favorite among independent artists, mostly because of its speed and affordability.
Instead of charging per release, it operates on an annual subscription model, which means you can upload as many songs or albums as you want for a flat fee.
That’s a dream for prolific artists who put out music frequently. One of the biggest perks of DistroKid is how quickly it gets your tracks onto major platform, often within a day or two.
It also has handy tools like automatic royalty splits for collaborations, which takes away the awkward math of dividing income.
On top of that, features like “HyperFollow” pages help with marketing, giving fans one link that updates as your music becomes available everywhere.
While it doesn’t offer in-depth promotional campaigns, it’s designed for artists who just want fast, reliable distribution at a low cost.
2. TuneCore
TuneCore has been around since 2006 and has built a reputation as one of the most established players in the music distribution world.
Unlike DistroKid, it charges per release, so you’ll pay a fee each time you upload a single or album.
That might sound less appealing, but TuneCore also provides detailed sales reports, giving you a crystal-clear look at where your streams and downloads are coming from.
It distributes to over 150 stores worldwide, making it an excellent option for artists looking for truly global reach.
Another strong point is that you keep 100% of your sales revenue, with no hidden cuts taken by the platform.
TuneCore has also added publishing administration services, which means it can help you collect royalties from places like radio plays and TV syncs.
If you want professional-level support and aren’t afraid of per-release fees, it’s a solid choice.
3. CD Baby
CD Baby is like the grandparent of digital music distribution, it’s been around since the late 90s, and it’s still one of the most trusted names in the business.
Unlike some platforms, CD Baby takes a one-time fee per release instead of recurring subscription costs, which can be a nice trade-off if you don’t release new music all the time.
They also have strong physical distribution options, meaning you can sell CDs and vinyl through their network, not just digital files.
One of the biggest draws is that CD Baby also offers sync licensing opportunities, potentially getting your music into films, commercials, and TV shows.
They handle publishing administration too, so your royalties are collected globally. While the upfront cost might be a bit higher than some newer platforms, the long-term value is undeniable.
For all those who want a “set it and forget it” approach, CD Baby is still a powerhouse.
4. AWAL
AWAL, which stands for “Artists Without a Label,” is known for being selective with who they work with, but that exclusivity is part of its appeal.
If you’re accepted, you gain access to distribution plus a suite of tools that go beyond the basics. AWAL offers data-driven insights to help you plan your release strategy and connect with new audiences.
They also provide marketing support and can even advance money to artists under certain conditions.
Unlike some DIY distributors, AWAL feels more like a hybrid between an indie label and a distribution service.
They don’t charge upfront fees but take a percentage of your revenue, which means they only make money when you do.
Artists ready to scale their careers, can confide in AWAL.
5. Ditto Music
Ditto Music markets itself as a distributor made by musicians for musicians, and that ethos shows in its offerings.
For a yearly subscription fee, you get unlimited distribution across major platforms. Ditto stands out for its additional services, such as record label creation, playlist pitching, and PR support.
They’ve even been behind artists who went on to chart internationally, proving their system works when paired with talent and timing.
Another interesting feature is their label services for those who want to release not just their own music but also manage other artists.
If you want more than basic distribution and like the idea of running your own label, Ditto is worth a look. Not only is it affordable but offers a plethora of great features.
6. LANDR
LANDR started out as an AI-powered mastering service but quickly expanded into music distribution, giving artists a full suite of tools under one roof.
Their distribution service is sleek, easy to use, and integrates directly with their mastering platform, so you can polish your track and release it all in one workflow.
LANDR also offers curated playlist pitching and royalty collection features, making it more than just a simple distributor.
Another standout feature is their collaboration tools, which make it easier for artists to share projects and split royalties.
Unlike some services that only focus on distribution, LANDR feels like a creative ecosystem designed to support musicians from creation to release.
It might be especially appealing for artists who are just starting out and want everything in one place.
7. Amuse
Amuse is unique because it actually offers a completely free distribution plan.
You can upload your music at no cost, and it’ll still go live on all major platforms. So, what’s the catch?
Well, the free plan doesn’t include all the advanced features like fast releases or detailed analytics, but it’s perfect for beginners.
Amuse also has a paid “Pro” plan that unlocks more control, faster payouts, and additional insights.
What makes Amuse really interesting is that they sometimes sign artists directly through their label arm, based on performance data.
That means if your music does well, you might attract industry opportunities without even knocking on doors.
Amuse is the perfect choice if you want to test the waters without investing upfront.
8. ONErpm
ONErpm is a distribution company with a strong focus on transparency and artist empowerment.
They’ve built a reputation for providing clear, detailed reporting so artists know exactly where their revenue comes from.
Distribution spans all major platforms, but ONErpm also puts an emphasis on marketing and audience growth tools.
They offer campaign management, playlist pitching, and even sync opportunities. Unlike some other services, ONErpm is flexible in terms of pricing models, offering both free distribution and revenue-share options.
Another big plus is their global presence. They have offices in multiple countries, giving them a stronger foothold in local markets around the world.
Try ONErpm if you’re serious about distribution and growth.
9. ReverbNation
ReverbNation has long been more than just a distributor.
It’s a platform built around community and artist development. Their distribution service is straightforward and gets your music onto all the big players, but what sets them apart are their promotional and networking opportunities.
Through ReverbNation, you can submit to opportunities like festivals, sync licensing, and curated playlists.
They also provide promotional tools like EPKs (electronic press kits) and fan engagement dashboards.
Another perk is their strong reputation among indie artists, meaning you’ll also connect with a community of like-minded musicians.
While it may not be as flashy or modern as some newer competitors, ReverbNation still delivers great value.
10. Symphonic Distribution
Symphonic Distribution is a bit more on the professional side, catering to both independent artists and labels.
They offer distribution alongside marketing, design, and even sync licensing services. Unlike some platforms where anyone can sign up instantly, Symphonic has an application process, which means they curate the artists they work with.
This makes them feel more like a boutique service with personalized support. Artists working with Symphonic often praise their hands-on approach and industry connections.
Their analytics tools are robust, giving you deeper insights into how your music performs across platforms. Symphonic doubles as a strategic partner that can be trusted upon any day.
11. UnitedMasters
UnitedMasters has quickly risen in popularity thanks to its sleek, tech-savvy approach to distribution.
They’re best known for connecting artists with brand deals, making them stand out in a space where most companies just focus on streaming.
The platform lets you distribute for free, but they take a revenue share, or you can opt for their paid plan for more control and faster payouts.
UnitedMasters has a strong focus on independence, empowering artists to build their careers without relying on traditional labels.
They also provide data and insights to help you understand and grow your audience. Perhaps the coolest part is their emphasis on brand partnerships, which can put artists in front of new listeners in unique ways.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right music aggregator or distribution company really depends on where you are in your journey as an artist.
With the right platform, your music won’t just exist, it’ll be heard.
If you’re just starting out and want something quick and cheap, options like Amuse or DistroKid might be your best bet.
Artists who are established and want deeper industry connections, Symphonic or AWAL could be a better fit.
And if you’re looking for a balance of reach and resources, services like CD Baby and TuneCore are perfect.
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