Welcome to the NexaTunes FAQ. This living document pulls together the key ideas from our existing blog posts and answers the questions we hear most often from independent artists and labels. Each answer includes links to the full articles on blog.nexatunes.com where you can explore the topic in more depth. The goal is to give you concise, actionable guidance without hype or jargon.

Table of contents

Use the list below to jump directly to any topic. Each link points to a section in this FAQ.

What is digital music distribution?

Digital distribution is the process of getting your music delivered to streaming services and download stores around the world. Unlike physical distribution (shipping CDs or vinyl) or simple file‑upload services, a good distributor does more than just deliver audio files – it handles metadata delivery, territorial settings, rights declaration, monetization, and on‑going management #1. Digital distribution also differs from aggregation: aggregators collect content but don’t handle rights or monetization. For a deeper dive see our article on What Is Digital Music Distribution?.

Which distribution model should I choose – flat‑fee or revenue share?

There are two common approaches. Flat‑fee distribution charges an upfront annual or per‑release fee and lets you keep 100 % of royalties. It’s simple but can be expensive over time and often comes with limited support and the risk that your music disappears if you stop paying #2. Revenue‑share distribution takes a percentage of your royalties (e.g. 30 %) instead of charging a fee. This model aligns the distributor’s incentives with yours, offers more support and usually keeps your catalog live indefinitely #3. NexaTunes uses a 70/30 revenue‑share model with no upfront fees #4. For more details see Flat‑Fee vs. Royalty‑Based Distribution and How NexaTunes' Revenue‑Share Model Works.

Which platforms pay the highest royalties?

Average per‑stream payouts vary widely. In 2024 Napster (~€0.019), Tidal (~€0.012), Apple Music (~€0.007–0.01), Deezer (~€0.006), YouTube Music (~€0.002), Amazon Music (~€0.004), and Spotify (~€0.003) were typical #5. Payouts depend on subscription tier, user location, your distribution deal, and the platform’s business model #6. Diversifying across platforms and focusing on premium listeners is recommended. See Which Streaming Platforms Pay the Most? for a full breakdown.

Where should I release my music?

No single platform is sufficient. Streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube Music provide broad exposure, while niche platforms such as Beatport (for electronic music) and Bandcamp (direct‑to‑fan) serve specialised audiences #7. Spotify excels at algorithmic discovery, Apple Music offers higher payouts and strong editorial curation, YouTube Music integrates video content, Beatport provides credibility among DJs, and Bandcamp enables merchandise and fan funding #8. For electronic artists there are additional platforms like Traxsource and SoundCloud #9. Our guide Where to Release Your Music in 2025 compares these services in detail.

How do I plan a release?

A structured release plan ensures your track has time to be delivered, pitched and promoted. We recommend a 4‑week pre‑release timeline:

  • Week 1 – Preparation: Finalise the mix/master and artwork; define your goals #10.
  • Week 2 – Upload and scheduling: Upload to your distributor at least four weeks before release; set pre‑save links and pitch to playlists #11.
  • Week 3 – Tease and build narrative: Share behind‑the‑scenes content and connect with fans #12.
  • Week 4 – Release push: Announce the release, share the link across platforms, and follow up with additional content #13.

Planning ahead lets you submit to Spotify’s editorial team and build anticipation. For more detail see our Realistic Release Plan​ and 4‑Week Pre‑Release Strategy.

How can I promote music without paid ads?

Organic promotion works when you consistently deliver value to listeners. Effective tactics include creating varied content (behind‑the‑scenes clips, lyric videos, mood boards) to tell the story behind your track, using YouTube and Shorts as search‑driven growth engines, maintaining a regular social media presence, collaborating with like‑minded artists, and encouraging engagement such as comments and saves #14 #15. Our article Music Promotion Without Ads outlines these strategies in depth.

How can one song generate multiple pieces of content?

A single release can be repurposed into at least seven different posts: a teaser clip, a story about the song’s creation, a visual snippet on TikTok/Instagram Reels, the official release post, a reaction round (e.g. reposting fan feedback), an alternative version (acoustic or remix), and a reflective follow‑up #16 #17. Consistent visuals tie these pieces together. See Turn a Single Track Into Seven Content Pieces for a timeline.

Why is metadata so important?

Correct metadata (artist names, track titles, credits, ISRC/ISWC codes, IPI numbers, publisher and label names) ensures royalties flow to the right people. Inconsistent metadata can delay releases, misdirect payments or disqualify your music from sync opportunities #18 #19. Before distribution, verify that artist names and track titles are spelled consistently; assign unique ISRC and catalog numbers; specify genre tags; clarify copyright ownership and splits; and meet artwork/audio specs #20 #21. Labels should request split sheets and IPI numbers from collaborators to avoid disputes #22. For a detailed checklist see Release Like a Pro: 5 Critical Checks and Why Metadata Matters.

How does Spotify’s algorithm work and how can I get on playlists?

Spotify uses a mix of algorithmic and editorial playlists. Algorithmic playlists like Release Radar and Discover Weekly respond to listener behaviour—saves, completions, session duration, and follower growth #23 #24. Submitting your song via Spotify for Artists at least seven days before release gives editors and algorithms a chance to consider it #25. Avoid tactics that look spammy (fake plays, repeated skips) as these hurt your algorithmic standing #26. Our guide Understanding Spotify in 2025​ explains discovery, playlists and common mistakes.

What do “streams,” “listeners,” and other Spotify metrics mean?

In Spotify for Artists, streams count the number of times your track has been played for at least 30 seconds, while monthly listeners count unique users who streamed any of your tracks in the past 28 days #27. A high streams‑to‑listener ratio indicates deeper engagement, and metrics like saves, playlist picks and follower growth are better indicators of long‑term success than raw stream counts #28 #29. See Spotify Metrics Explained for more.

Why does Apple Music still matter?

Apple Music is a paid‑only service with curated editorial playlists, integration across Apple devices, and higher per‑stream payouts (~€0.007–0.01) than Spotify #30. It offers hi‑resolution audio, Apple Music for Artists analytics, and Shazam integration #31. For artists who care about quality and curation, Apple Music is a key platform. Read Apple Music in 2025 for details.

How does YouTube Music and the Official Artist Channel work?

YouTube Music combines traditional streaming with video content. An Official Artist Channel (OAC) aggregates your personal uploads, topic channel and VEVO/label content in one place, making it easier for fans and algorithms to find your music #32. Monetization comes from streams on YouTube Music, views on the main channel through Content ID, and Shorts revenue #33. To learn more see YouTube Music & Artist Channels in 2025.

What is Beatport and how do I get my label listed?

Beatport is the industry standard for electronic music and serves both DJs and listeners. It offers curated genre charts, a hybrid sales/streaming model and integration with DJ software #34. The Beatport Hype program boosts visibility for new labels and requires at least one release and an application fee #35. Getting listed typically requires going through a qualifying distributor or applying directly—have a unique label name, a release history, clean metadata and a clear release schedule. Our article How Independent Labels Can Get Listed on Beatport outlines the process.

What about regional platforms like Boomplay and Audiomack?

Boomplay and Audiomack are essential for reaching audiences in Africa. Boomplay has over 90 million users, uses a freemium model and focuses on local content; it pays royalties through mainstream collection societies #36. Audiomack has around 130 million monthly users, allows free streaming and offline listening, and offers monetization only in select countries #37. For artists targeting African markets, consider both platforms alongside global services.

Should I focus on TikTok or traditional streaming?

TikTok Music shut down in November 2024, but TikTok remains a powerful discovery platform. TikTok for Artists, launched in June 2025, provides analytics and promotional tools #38. The new Add to Music App feature lets users save songs directly to Spotify, Apple Music and other services #39, turning viral moments into streaming revenue. While TikTok’s distribution service SoundOn offers preferential algorithm placement, it requires exclusivity #40. Traditional streaming still generates over 90 % of music revenue #41, so the most successful artists use TikTok for discovery and streaming platforms for monetization #42 #43. See TikTok vs. Traditional Streaming for strategy.

Why are some artists quitting Spotify?

In 2025 some artists publicly left Spotify due to ethical concerns (the company’s investments in defense‑related technology), the proliferation of AI‑generated music diluting royalties, and new payout thresholds that make it harder for small artists to earn #44 #45. If you share these concerns you can diversify your income through Bandcamp, direct‑to‑fan platforms and physical releases; advocate for fairer streaming policies; and use transparent distributors #46. Our article Why Artists Are Quitting Spotify explores this topic.

What is an IPI number and why do I need one?

An IPI (Interested Party Information) number is a unique identifier assigned to songwriters, composers, lyricists and publishers by collecting societies (e.g. GEMA, SACEM, BMI, PRS). It links you to your compositions in international databases, enabling societies to track usage and distribute publishing royalties correctly #47. Without an IPI, royalties may go unclaimed or be paid to someone else #48. You receive an IPI automatically when you register with your local society #49, and you should include it when submitting metadata to distributors, publishing services and sync agents #50. Labels should make IPI collection part of their metadata intake #51. See Why Every Artist Needs an IPI Number for more.

What’s the difference between composer, author, producer and performer? How do splits work?

In a song, composers write the music, lyricists write the lyrics, performers sing or rap, and producers create beats or arrangements #52. Composers and lyricists earn publishing royalties, while performers and producers usually earn from the master recording #53. Splits determine how publishing royalties are divided among co‑creators #54. Agree on who wrote what and record the percentages in a split sheet before release #55; miscommunication leads to disputes and lost income. Common myths include assuming that buying a beat gives you all rights or that verbal agreements trump written splits #56. Always provide full legal names, publishing percentages, IPI numbers, ISWC/ISRC codes and publisher/label names in your metadata #57. For guidance and a free split sheet template see Who’s the Composer? Who’s the Author? Who Gets Paid?.

Should I sign a music publishing deal?

A publishing deal is an agreement where a publisher registers your compositions, pitches them for sync, collects royalties and protects your rights in exchange for a share of your publishing income #58. There are several structures:

  • Administration deal: You retain full ownership while the publisher handles registration and collection; they typically take 10–20 % #59.
  • Co‑publishing deal: You assign part of your rights to the publisher (often 50 % of the publisher share); in return they actively pitch your music and may give an advance #60.
  • Full publishing deal: The publisher owns 100 % of your publishing rights, often with advances and exclusivity #61.

Check the duration, territory, advance terms, royalty splits, sync rights and performance clauses carefully #62. You may not need a publisher if you release independently and register your works yourself #63. For more information read Understanding Music Publishing Deals.

What are sync rights and how do I license my music for film/TV/games?

Sync (synchronization) rights allow music to be used with visual media. Any use in films, series, ads, trailers, games or YouTube videos requires clearance #64. A sync licence has two components: the master right (the sound recording) and the publishing right (the composition) #65. Both rights holders must approve the licence #66. Fees vary widely depending on usage, duration, and platform size #67. Before accepting a deal, confirm who is requesting the licence, how your music will be used, whether the licence is exclusive, whether future royalties are included, and that all co‑writers approve #68. See Sync Rights Explained to learn more.

Is human mastering still necessary in the age of AI?

AI mastering tools offer speed and low cost, but they lack emotional understanding, nuance and the human connection that makes music resonate #69. A mastering engineer brings experience, translates your creative intent into a balanced sonic signature, and offers personalised feedback #70. For an exploration of when to choose human mastering over AI, read Why Choose Human Mastering Over AI Mastering?.

What opportunities and challenges does AI‑generated music present?

AI‑generated music can offer creative diversity, cost efficiency and personalised compositions, but it also raises legal grey areas, quality concerns, and ethical questions #71 #72. Labels must consider how to clear rights for AI‑generated works and whether to disclose AI authorship. For a deeper look see AI‑Generated Music: Legal Landscape, Opportunities and Challenges.

How can artists respond to the rise of AI “fake bands” and algorithm wars?

The flood of AI‑generated tracks has led to playlist saturation, royalty dilution and identity issues. Independent artists can respond by using data analytics to understand audience segments, releasing content in algorithm‑friendly formats, collaborating across scenes, and leveraging AI tools for insights without sacrificing authenticity #73 #74. Building direct fan relationships and advocating for transparency around AI content are key #75. See AI ‘Fake Bands’ & Algorithm Wars for practical strategies.

What should I do if my streams are removed due to artificial streaming allegations?

If you discover your streams have vanished or been flagged as artificial, act quickly: document all data (statements, playlists, release schedules), contact your distributor, pause promotions, and analyse your traffic sources #76 #77. Look for red flags like sudden spikes from unexpected countries or suspicious playlists #78. Building a case increases your chances of resolving the issue, but prevention (e.g. avoiding dubious promotion services) is crucial. Our Quick Response Guide provides a step‑by‑step action plan. For a more comprehensive overview of consequences and recovery, see the full Independent Artist & Label Artificial Streaming Guide.

Smart‑link services create a single landing page that houses links to your music on multiple platforms, making it easy for fans to choose their preferred service. Below is a summary of the ten tools we compared in 2025. All but one offer a free plan.

  • Feature.fm – Free plan
    Highlights: Pre-saves, bio/tour links, in-depth analytics

  • Soundplate Clicks – Free plan
    Highlights: Fully branded landing pages with merch integrations

  • Amplify.link – Free plan
    Highlights: Clean design, custom domains and strong branding

  • ToneDen – Free plan
    Highlights: Built-in automation and social-ads integration

  • Hypeddit – (trial only)
    Highlights: Music-centric features and analytics

  • Odesli (Songlink) – Free plan
    Highlights: Simple, fast universal links

  • Listen.lt – Free plan
    Highlights: Lightweight tool with no sign-up required for fans

  • Found.ee – Free plan
    Highlights: Retargeting tools and detailed analytics

  • SubmitHub Links – Free plan
    Highlights: Link generation plus pixel integration

  • Soundraiser – Free plan
    Highlights: Simple and beginner-friendly

For insights on when to use each service and how to choose, see Top 10 Smart Link Tools for Music Promotion in 2025.

More questions?

This FAQ summarises the key takeaways from our published articles as of August 19, 2025. New topics are added regularly on NexaTunes Insights. If you have a question that isn’t covered here, feel free to reach out via our live chat or suggest topics for future posts. We’re committed to empowering independent artists and labels through transparent information and practical guidance.

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