A guide for artists, record labels, and music app developers
If you're an artist, a record label, or a music app developer, distributing your music to major streaming platforms is crucial for expanding your audience. Apple Music, with its extensive user base and global reach, is one such platform that can significantly enhance your visibility and revenue. This guide will outline the steps to get your music on Apple Music, the benefits, and what to expect in terms of revenue.
Apple Music is a prominent streaming service with millions of subscribers worldwide. By distributing your music on Apple Music, you can tap into a vast audience, potentially increasing your fanbase and income. The platform supports high-quality streaming and offers various subscription plans, including individual, family, and student plans, which cater to different types of listeners.
Apple Music is one of the leading music streaming services globally, holding a significant market share. According to a 2022 report by MIDiA Research, Apple Music accounts for about 15% of the global music streaming market, making it the second-largest service behind Spotify【13†source】.
Apple Music is particularly popular in regions such as the United States, Europe, and parts of Asia, providing artists with substantial opportunities to reach diverse audiences.
To get your music on Apple Music, you’ll need to use a digital distribution service. These services facilitate the process of uploading your music to various online stores and streaming platforms, including Apple Music.
Popular digital distribution services:
Ensure you have all the necessary components ready before uploading your music:
Once you've selected a distribution service and prepared your materials, follow the platform's instructions to upload your music. This typically involves:
During the upload process, you will have the option to choose the platforms where your music will be available. Ensure that Apple Music is selected. Some services may offer separate options for different regions, so choose accordingly.
After submitting your music, the distribution service will manage the rest. Your music will undergo a review process and then be made available on Apple Music. This can take a few days to a couple of weeks. Monitor your email for any updates or additional requests for information.
Understanding the potential revenue from distributing music on Apple Music is crucial. Earnings are primarily generated through streaming royalties, and the payment structure is as follows:
Payments from digital distribution services to artists and record labels are usually made on a monthly basis, though this can differ by service. Most services offer direct deposit, PayPal, or other electronic payment methods.
Distributing your music to Apple Music can significantly enhance your reach and revenue potential. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using a reliable digital distribution service, you can ensure that your music is accessible to millions of potential listeners worldwide.