How to Switch Digital Music Distributors?

You might have 101 reasons for wanting to switch to a new digital music distributor, maybe the support’s gone silent, the fees keep climbing, or the promises just never showed up. Whatever your reason is, we’ve got you covered!

Luckily, switching distributors doesn’t have to mean starting over or losing your hard-earned streams.

The distribution of music has evolved rapidly in recent years, and with so many music distribution services available, artists now have more freedom than ever to choose what works best for them. 

Let’s talk about how to make the switch smoothly, and how to find the best music distribution service for the next chapter of your career. Let’s jump right in!

1. Step 1: Gather Your Metadata
   
   
2. Step 2: Get Your Audio Files Ready
   
   
3. Step 3: Choose the Best Music Distribution Service (For You)
   
   
4. Step 4: Upload & Wait for Track Linking
   
   
5. Step 5: Request Takedowns
   
   
6. FAQs
   
   
7. Takeaway
   
   

Step 1: Gather Your Metadata

Before you make the move, collect all your release information (metadata). Think of metadata as your music’s DNA. It tells streaming platforms who you are and ensures your new distributor can match your releases perfectly.

• Grab everything:
• Track and album titles
• Artist and feature names
• ISRC and UPC codes (the secret codes that preserve your streams)
• Genre, release date, and artwork

If you’re working with a top music distribution company, they might provide a spreadsheet template to make this painless. The key is accuracy because one typo can break the link between your old and new releases.

Step 2: Get Your Audio Files Ready

Next, locate your original .WAV or high-quality master files. When you switch to a new distributor, upload the exact same files used in your previous releases. Even the smallest difference in file size or mastering can prevent track linking on platforms. So make sure you’re using the exact same .WAV or master files from your original uploads.

Some music distribution services offer bulk upload tools, so you can drop your entire catalogue at once. 

Step 3: Choose the Best Music Distribution Service (For You)

Here’s where you get to play matchmaker again. Ask yourself a few honest questions:

• Does this distributor charge hidden fees
• Can I keep 100% of my royalties?
• Do they offer marketing or playlist-pitching help?
• What kind of customer support do they provide?

Platforms like LANDR, TuneCore, and Identity Music each cater to different needs. The best music distribution platform for you is the one that aligns with your goals; whether that’s saving money, gaining exposure, or getting label-level support without losing control of your rights. 

We’ve done a detailed comparison of the three most popular digital distribution services. You can check it out here.

Remember, the best music distribution service isn’t always necessarily the most expensive; it’s the one that helps you grow your fanbase, all the while keeping your music available everywhere.

Step 4: Upload & Wait for Track Linking

Once your releases are uploaded, it usually takes around six weeks for everything to sync behind the scenes. This is called track linking, where streaming platforms recognize that your “new” uploads are the same as your old ones.

During this time, don’t rush to remove your old releases. Both versions can stay live temporarily while the data transfers. Your listeners won’t notice a thing, but you’ll keep your play counts safe.

Step 5: Request Takedowns

When your new distributor confirms that the migration is complete, it’s time to remove your releases from your previous platform. This ensures that all future plays and royalties are collected under your new account.

By this point, you’ll have fully switched over. Congratulations! Now you can enjoy better tools, better support, and hopefully, better results from your music distribution services.

FAQs

1. Will I lose my streams if I switch music distributors?

Nope… not if you do it right. Think of it like moving house, as long as you bring all your furniture (your ISRC and UPC codes), everything will end up in the new place just fine.

2. Can I switch to a free music distribution platform?

You can; and many artists do. A free music distribution platform can be great if you’re starting out or testing the waters. But here’s the catch: “free” can sometimes come with trade-offs.

3. When Should I Switch My Digital Music Distributor?

You might want to switch distributors when your current one stops meeting your needs maybe the fees keep rising, support is slow, or you’re missing out on playlist pitching and marketing help.

Early on, a basic platform might be fine, but as your audience grows, you’ll need better tools, analytics, and real support. The right time to switch is when your distributor feels more like a barrier than a partner in your career growth.

4. What’s the best music distribution service to switch to?

That depends on you. The best music distribution option for one artist might not work for another.

If you want to keep things simple, platforms like DistroKid or CD Baby are easy to use. But if you’re serious about growing your audience, look for distributors like LANDR or Identity Music, ones that offer playlist pitching, analytics, and real human support.

The real best music distribution service is the one that makes you feel like you’ve got a team behind your music, not just a website taking your uploads.

5. How long does it take to switch distributors?

Usually about 4–6 weeks, that time allows streaming platforms to “tracklink” your old releases with your new ones, keeping your stats intact. The golden rule? Don’t panic and definitely don’t delete your old releases until your new ones are fully live. Patience pays off quite literally.

6. What information do I need before switching distributors?

You’ll want to gather everything that identifies your music, basically, your digital passport:

• Song and album titles
• Artist and feature names
• ISRC and UPC codes
• Genre, release date, and artwork
• Original WAV or master files
  
  

Takeaway

Switching distributors isn’t just about moving files; it’s about upgrading your music career. Whether you go with a free music distribution platform or a premium top music distribution company, make sure it supports your goals, offers fair royalties, and gives you the tools you need to grow.

We at GreaseRelease, have a bunch of curators on our network who are looking for new & exciting music to push on their massive playlists. If you make music and want to reach a wider audience, check out our submission platform and get a chance to reach millions of listeners! Submit your tracks now!