Step 9 of 13 · Release

Distribution

A distributor delivers your track to Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, YouTube Music and the rest, and collects your streaming royalties. The big choice is the pricing model: a flat annual fee (DistroKid, Amuse) where you keep ~100% of royalties, versus a per-release or revenue-share model (CD Baby, UnitedMasters). For AI music specifically, check each distributor's and DSP's AI policy — some restrict or require disclosure of fully AI-generated tracks.

The steps

  1. 1Pick a model: flat annual fee (keep all royalties) vs per-release/revenue-share.
  2. 2Confirm the distributor accepts AI-generated music and how it must be disclosed.
  3. 3Upload your 24-bit WAV + 3000×3000 art + metadata; set a release date 2–4 weeks out.
  4. 4Grab your ISRC/UPC codes (the distributor issues them) — you'll need them for rights.
  5. 5Submit at least 2–4 weeks early so you can pitch playlists before release.
🤖 AI path

Most major distributors accept AI music but increasingly require disclosure; some DSPs are tightening rules — verify before you upload.

🎤 Indie path

Identical mechanics; indie originals face fewer AI-policy questions.

🔗 Where they meet

Everyone needs a distributor, ISRC/UPC, correct metadata, and a 2–4 week lead time.

The verdict

For most releasing artists a flat-fee distributor (keep ~100% of royalties) wins — just confirm its AI-music policy and disclosure rules before you upload.