Distribution is how sound recordings are made available to the public through various physical and digital formats, channels, and platforms.
Traditionally, music distribution involved physical formats such as vinyl records, cassette tapes, and CDs, which were manufactured by A company that invests in, manufactures, distributes, promotes, and monetizes sound recordings on behalf of the artist. and A company or service that delivers music to digital streaming platforms and physical retail stores. and sold by retailers like record stores and department stores.
Although these physical formats are still available, technology and the growth of Digital Service Provider: an online platform that provides streaming or download services to consumers. has driven a shift in distribution channels, primarily to Formats that store music in computer-readable files using binary code, such as WAV, MP3, and FLAC. for streaming and downloads.
The distribution process is undertaken by:
A company that invests in, manufactures, distributes, promotes, and monetizes sound recordings on behalf of the artist. - physical and digital formats
A company or service that delivers music to digital streaming platforms and physical retail stores. - physical and digital formats
A type of distributor that only distributes sound recordings to online stores and streaming platforms. - digital only formats
Visit our topic, The Music Industry Ecosystem, to learn more about record labels and distributors.
The stores that are distributed to include but are not limited to:
Streaming services such as Amazon Music, Spotify and Apple Music
Online music stores such as iTunes, Bandcamp and Amazon
Social media and video platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and TikTok
Physical stores such as department stores and independent record stores
What types of distribution are there?
There are two types of distribution: physical and digital. Some distribution services will only cater to small Not affiliated with any other entity or company. A company that invests in, manufactures, distributes, promotes, and monetizes sound recordings on behalf of the artist., as opposed to Releasing music without the support of a record label Anyone who contributes to creating or performing a musical work, a live performance, or a sound recording..
Physical music distribution
This refers to the process of selling and distributing sound recordings in physical formats like vinyl records, CDs, or cassette tapes. Physical distribution involves manufacturing, shipping and selling these physical products to retailers. It’s also common for self-releasing In the context of music, a solo performer or group of performers who perform a musical work live or recorded. and record labels to make physical products, such as vinyl records, and sell them directly to fans via their website or online store, also known as D2C.
Digital music distribution
This refers to the process of delivering sound recordings digitally to platforms, including streaming services, online music stores, and social media platforms. Digital music distribution involves uploading files to a distributor or aggregator, which distributes the sound recordings to Digital Service Provider: an online platform that provides streaming or download services to consumers.. Distributors can also collect royalties from DSPs on behalf of Under copyright law, the person or company responsible for the creation of the sound recording. and pay creators directly.
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