Choosing the right music distributor is an important decision for artists who want to share their music with the world. It also plays a crucial role in which music distributor you choose to release your music with. Each distributor has different terms, and there are many red flags to watch out for. In this blog post, we will discuss some common red flags to be cautious of when selecting a music distributor. By being informed and cautious, you can protect yourself and your music career from potential pitfalls.
Unreasonably high fees
One of the first red flags to watch out for is distributors charging exorbitant upfront fees or ongoing fees without providing clear justification. While distributors need to cover their costs, it's important to compare pricing with other reputable distributors in the industry. If the fees seem significantly higher than average, proceed with caution. Also, don't be fooled by distribution companies that pay you 100% and seem to charge you nothing. Distributors need to cover their costs, too, and often you'll end up paying for all the extra services that come with distributing your music.
Lack of transparency
Transparency is key when dealing with music distributors. If a distributor is not upfront about their services, terms, or royalty splits, it's a major red flag. Reputable distributors should provide clear and detailed information about what they offer and how they operate. If you encounter vague or evasive answers, consider it a warning sign. At dig dis!, we take pride in providing an open platform that offers a wide range of tools to support you. Additionally, we offer a comprehensive monthly review of your music's performance. This allows you to closely monitor which tracks have been streamed or downloaded from each store, providing transparent visibility into your sales figures.
Poor communication or customer support
Effective communication and reliable customer support are crucial aspects of any business relationship. If a music distributor is unresponsive, difficult to reach, or unhelpful when you have questions or concerns, it's a red flag. Timely and supportive communication is vital for a positive working relationship with your distributor. At dig dis!, we prioritize personal communication and ensure that every inquiry is personally addressed. We are available by phone during our opening hours to provide assistance. We value the direct connection with our artists and label partners, as it is vital to us. Through this close collaboration, we can foster mutual growth and development.
Negative reviews or reputation
Before committing to a music distributor, conduct thorough research and read reviews from artists who have used their services. Pay attention to any consistent negative feedback or complaints about issues such as missing payments or poor service. A significant number of negative reviews should raise concerns and prompt further investigation.
Unverifiable claims or promises
Be skeptical of distributors that make unrealistic promises of instant success or guaranteed placement on major platforms. The music industry is highly competitive and success depends on numerous factors beyond distribution alone. No distributor can guarantee specific outcomes, so be cautious of overly ambitious claims. Our "Placements" page highlights our track record of past accomplishments and illustrates how we have provided assistance to our artists and labels through chart placements, playlist features, and more. While we cannot guarantee results, we consistently strive to secure the most favorable placements for our clients.
Lack of prominent partnerships
Reputable music distributors often have partnerships or affiliations with established players in the industry, such as major record labels or popular streaming platforms. If a distributor lacks these partnerships, it may indicate a lack of credibility or industry recognition. Partnered distributors offer better opportunities for exposure and growth. Here, we have curated a brief selection of testimonials from some of our esteemed partners, highlighting their thoughts and experiences with us.
Selecting the right music distributor is a critical step in your music career. By being aware of these red flags, you can navigate the industry with greater caution and make informed decisions. Conduct thorough research, compare options, and consult with other artists or industry professionals before choosing a music distributor. Remember, a trustworthy and reliable distributor can help amplify your music's reach and maximize your chances of success.
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