6 things to ask about digital music distribution

The Nigerian music industry keeps evolving. Online and digital distribution is one of the ways in which the industry has changed. Many modern Nigerian artists now have their songs on platforms like Deezer, Spotify and iTunes.

In the past, there were vinyl records then tapes, then CDS and now the first place many of us go to for music is the Internet. Finding the right digital distribution channel is important for any upcoming or already established artist.

Here are 6 things you need to think about when looking for right distribution channel.

1. Do they really handle music distribution?

There are quite a few solutions and resource companies that claim to aid online music distribution. You need to find out how invested they are in this and how much they know about this.

2. How will sales revenues be divided?

If your song sells for N100, just how much will be your cut? Different distribution channels have contrasting revenue share processes.

3. Can they help with collection of royalties?

The Copyright Society of Nigeria is an organization, which ensures that musicians get paid their royalties for airplay within Nigeria. They also assist with music licences. Thanks to the Internet, there’s a bigger market – the rest of the world. You need to find out if your distributor can help with the collection of international royalties.

READ: How to get your music published online

4. Do they have a dedicated client care line?

Most times even when we’ve got all the information, we still get stuck and require a bit more help. Have they got a customer care unit who can answer your questions and help you out with issues? Have they got a help guide or trouble shooting system to help you out with the distribution process?

5. What exactly is the process?

So you want to distribute you music digitally, but does the company provide guidelines to help with this? Ideally you would be asked to submit certain documents to assist with distribution. These supporting documents could include and are not limited to the artwork, audio file, and background information like artist profile.

6. Do they offer statistics?

Will they be able to offer detailed reports of how many times your song is downloaded and streamed? Can you access this information yourself or will this be sent to you and how regularly?

Music is not just about the creativity, there’s also a business side to it. This list reveals the steps to taking your music or your artist's music to the next level.