Your music on iTunes, Spotify,
Amazon and Google Play
Easier said as done. But we will explain to you how it works.
First a few things you should know:
Codes:
There are 3 different codes that clearly identify your music – like the barcode in the supermarket:
- UPC and EAN – The “Universal Product Code” and the “European Article Number” are unique identification numbers of your Album. You can get UPCs or EANs by applying for them at a GS1 organization: GS1-Switzerland
- ISRC – The “International Standard Recording Code” is the same as UPC/EAN, but for individual music titles. In Switzerland, ifpi is responsible for the allocation.
What is an aggregator?
Aggregators are external providers who can obtain a Universal Product Code (UPC) and an International Standard Recording Code (ISRC) and then distribute or make your music available through various channels. Prices vary greatly, but in the end we will take a closer look at the most popular ones.
Now to the platforms:
iTunes: DIRECT or via AGGREGATOR
Yes, it is possible to work directly with Apple if all requirements are met:
– Apple computer with OS X 10.5.8 or higher (best with Intel)
– at least 20 GB free disk space and 512 MB RAM
– QuickTime 7.0.3 or higher
– at least 20 albums, all with UPC and ISRC for each track
– An USA Tax ID
– An iTunes account with a connected credit card
– Accept terms of use
REGISTRATION: Free of charge. An Application form must be filled out.
ADMINISTRATION: Via iTunes Connect, here you can find more information or help.
Via Aggregator working with iTunes is certainly easier, but there is a charge for it.
Spotify: Via AGGREGATOR or Label
It is not possible to work directly with Spotify. You need a label or an Aggregator that delivers your music to Spotify for a fee.
REQUIREMENTS:
– Aggregator or Label
– Spotify Account
– Accept Terms of use
REGISTRATION: Free of charge under artists.spotify.com
Google Play: DIRECT or via AGGREGATOR
Yes, it is possible to work directly with Google Play. Requirements for this:
– Google Account
– No UPC required for music publishing
– Accept Terms of use
REGISTRATION: Free of charge, at Google Play Artist Hub-Accout create or claim a store page.
ADMINISTRATION: Under Google Play Artist Hub-Account. Here you can find more information or help.
Amazon: Via AGGREGATOR
Although Amazon offers a great CD publishing service thanks to CreateSpace to make your music available in Amazon Digital Music Store, an aggregator is necessary: cdbaby, rebeat, ingrooves, redeyeusa, theorchard, tunecore or virtuallabel.
Aggregators under the magnifier
Basic:
90% of the income for the artist
Single 19 € once
Album 39 € once
Premium:
100 % of the income for the artist
Single 9 € per year
Album 29 € per year
100% of the income for the artist
Single 9.99 $ per year
Album 29.99 $ first year,
49.99$ following years
Rights: The handling of rights to compositions, works and recordings is handled differently on the various platforms. We recommend to study the terms of use of the respective platform carefully and to choose another platform in case of doubt.
This newsletter contains only general information and must not be used for specific questions. We assume no liability for the correctness of the contents listed here. Although the information is checked for accuracy and timeliness, to the extent permitted by law we disclaim all liability for any undesirable consequences arising from the use of this information.