In today’s music industry, independent artists have more power than ever to distribute their music without needing a record label. With the rise of free music distribution platforms, musicians can now get their songs on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and many other streaming services at no cost. Below is a comprehensive guide to the best free music distribution platforms available today.

1. Amuse – Distribute Music for Free and Keep 100% of Your Royalties

Amuse is one of the leading free music distribution platforms that allows artists to release their music to all major streaming services without any upfront cost. You simply upload your tracks through their mobile app or website, and Amuse takes care of the rest.

Key Features:

• 100% of royalties go to the artist.

• Global distribution to Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and more.

• Mobile-first interface (iOS and Android).

• Optional premium plans for faster release times and advanced analytics.

Amuse is perfect for DIY artists looking to maintain full control and maximize revenue.

2. Routenote – Flexible Distribution with Both Free and Premium Options

Routenote offers a hybrid model where you can choose between a completely free distribution plan or a premium plan with additional features.

Key Features:

• Free plan: Keep 85% of your royalties.

• Premium plan: Keep 100% of royalties for a small upfront fee.

• Supports distribution to over 20 streaming services.

• YouTube Content ID, monetization, and physical distribution options.

Routenote is ideal for artists who want scalability, allowing them to start for free and upgrade when they need more.

3. Soundrop – Best for Cover Songs and Licensing

Soundrop is tailored for artists who frequently release cover songs or niche genre tracks like lo-fi, instrumental, and ambient music.

Key Features:

• Handles mechanical licensing for cover songs (U.S. only).

• No annual fees.

• Distribution to major platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music.

• Transparent royalty reports and fast payouts.

Soundrop is the top pick for musicians who want legally distributed covers or maintain creative freedom in niche genres.

4. UnitedMasters – Distribution with Marketing and Brand Deals

UnitedMasters is more than a distribution platform—it connects artists with brand sponsorships, sync licensing opportunities, and professional marketing tools.

Key Features:

• Free plan allows for global music distribution.

• Keep 90% of your royalties.

• Opportunities to be featured in NBA, ESPN, and Apple Music playlists.

• Built-in analytics and promotion tools.

This platform empowers artists to go beyond streaming and explore commercial partnerships and sync deals.

5. FreshTunes – Straightforward Free Music Distribution

FreshTunes provides uncomplicated, free music distribution with no hidden fees or commissions. It is popular in Europe and emerging markets.

Key Features:

• 100% of royalties paid to the artist.

• Distributes to all major streaming services.

• Options for music mastering and YouTube monetization.

• Useful promotional tools such as press release creation and social media sharing.

FreshTunes is great for artists who need a no-frills solution that works globally and efficiently.

6. Level Music – Designed for Independent and Emerging Artists

Level is a sleek and modern distribution service that’s backed by Warner Music Group, yet geared toward unsigned artists.

Key Features:

• Free distribution for artists with fewer than 10 tracks.

• Real-time royalty tracking.

• Direct upload to Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and Tidal.

• Clean, easy-to-use interface.

Level is excellent for new artists testing the waters in digital distribution without any financial commitment.

7. AWAL (Artists Without A Label) – Invite-Only with Premium Support

AWAL offers a curated music distribution experience. While not fully open to the public, artists can apply and, once accepted, get access to high-end tools and personalized support.

Key Features:

• Retain ownership and creative control.

• Global distribution with playlist pitching.

• Transparent royalty splits and insights.

• Sync licensing, marketing support, and A&R services.

AWAL is ideal for artists serious about scaling their careers and ready to invest effort into growth.

8. Ditto Music – Professional Distribution with Free Trials

Ditto offers a 7-day free trial and competitive pricing thereafter. While not completely free long-term, the platform is packed with tools for serious independent musicians.

Key Features:

• Distribution to 150+ stores worldwide.

• Pre-save campaigns, smart links, and video monetization.

• Record label services, PR campaigns, and chart registration.

• Keep 100% of royalties.

For those who outgrow free services, Ditto is a natural next step that still maintains affordability.

9. OneRPM – Distribution with Social Media Integration

OneRPM is a hybrid platform that offers both music distribution and YouTube/Social Media management tools for artists.

Key Features:

• Free global distribution.

• Built-in YouTube Content ID support.

• Analytics and fan insights.

• Monetization across Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

OneRPM is perfect for artists who are active on social platforms and want unified control over their online presence.

10. Spinnup – Powered by Universal Music (Currently Rebooting)

Although Spinnup recently paused open signups, it is still worth watching. It previously offered free and premium plans and was backed by Universal Music Group.

Why Watch It:

• Historically strong artist development platform.

• Known for discovering unsigned talent and providing label opportunities.

• Likely to return with enhanced services.

Spinnup has been a launchpad for multiple successful independent artists and might become one again soon.

How to Choose the Right Free Music Distribution Platform

When selecting a platform, consider the following:

• Royalties: How much of your revenue will you keep?

• Reach: Which platforms will your music be distributed to?

• Licensing Support: Are cover songs or samples legally managed?

• Monetization Tools: Does it offer YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram monetization?

• Analytics: Can you track your streams, listeners, and earnings?

Ultimately, your choice depends on your career goals, release frequency, and the level of service you need.

Final Thoughts

Thanks to these free music distribution services, independent musicians can now release their songs to the world without giving up rights or royalties. Whether you’re a new artist testing the waters or a seasoned performer expanding your reach, the right platform can be a game-changer for your music career.

Conclusion

Free music distribution platforms have revolutionized the music industry, giving independent artists the ability to reach a global audience without the backing of a record label. Whether you’re a bedroom producer, indie band, or solo artist, there’s a platform that matches your needs—whether it’s 100% royalty retention, cover song licensing, or marketing support.

With tools that support monetization, social media integration, and global reach, these platforms provide everything an artist needs to thrive in today’s digital landscape.

Choose your platform based on your career goals, distribution needs, and budget flexibility. Start with a free plan, and scale up as your fanbase grows. Success in the music industry is more accessible than ever—take advantage of these tools and get your music heard around the world.

FAQs 

1. Are free music distribution platforms really free?

Yes, many platforms offer completely free distribution without any upfront costs. However, some may take a small percentage of your royalties (e.g., Routenote’s free plan takes 15%), while others may offer optional premium plans for added features like faster delivery, advanced analytics, or marketing tools.

2. Do I keep 100% of my royalties with free platforms?

Not always. Platforms like Amuse and FreshTunes let you keep 100% of your royalties, but others like Routenote (free plan) or UnitedMasters may take a percentage in exchange for free distribution. Always read the fine print.

3. Can I upload cover songs using free music distribution platforms?

Yes, but only a few platforms like Soundrop handle the required mechanical licensing for cover songs (in the U.S.). Others may require you to secure licensing on your own before distribution.

4. Which platforms are best for fast music delivery?

If speed is your priority, consider platforms with premium options like Amuse Pro, Ditto Music, or Level. They offer faster distribution and priority artist support.

5. Can I distribute music to YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram with these platforms?

Absolutely. Most free distribution platforms—including OneRPM, UnitedMasters, and Routenote—include distribution to social media platforms such as YouTube Music, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.

6. Do these platforms offer analytics and reports?

Yes. Most platforms offer royalty reports, streaming data, and listener analytics. Platforms like UnitedMasters, Amuse, and Level provide user-friendly dashboards to monitor your music’s performance in real-time.

7. Can I switch to another distributor later?

Yes, but you’ll need to take down your music from the old distributor and re-upload it through the new one. Some metadata (like play counts or playlist placements) may not transfer, so it’s important to plan this move carefully.

8. Do these services include marketing or playlist pitching?

Most free plans don’t include extensive marketing. However, platforms like UnitedMasters, AWAL, and Ditto offer playlist pitching, branding opportunities, and sync licensing on premium tiers or through invite-only access.