DSPs & Distribution Guide

Uploading Your Music to Spotify, Apple Music, and Beyond

Once you have recorded your song and secured your Stephen Allen Music Group® license, the next step is moving your record to Digital Service Providers (DSPs). Whether you use DistroKid, TuneCore, UnitedMasters, or TooLost, this guide ensures your release stays in legal compliance.

1. Choosing the Right Distributor

To get your music on Spotify and Apple Music, you must use a distributor. While we do not officially endorse one platform, we recommend using services that allow for "Automated Royalty Splits." This ensures that the Producer’s 10% Master Royalty is paid out automatically, so you don't have to manage manual payments every month.

2. Content ID Warning (Critical)

Most distributors offer an optional add-on for "YouTube Content ID" or "Social Media Monetization."

  • For MP3, WAV, and Stems Licenses: You are strictly prohibited from opting into these services. Doing so will flag every other artist who licensed that beat and will result in a material breach of your contract.

  • For Custom Licenses: You may opt-in, provided you have established the 50/50 revenue split with Stephen Allen Music as outlined in your agreement.

3. Metadata & Credits

When filling out your release information at your distributor, you must provide proper credit to maintain the validity of your license:

  • Primary Artist: [Your Name]

  • Producer: Stephen Allen Music

  • Composer/Songwriter: Stephen Allen Mackey

  • Contributor Share: 50% (Publishing/Mechanicals)

4. ISRCs and UPCs

When your distributor generates an ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) for your song, please keep this on file. You will need this code to properly register the song with SoundExchange and The MLC to ensure all "backend" revenue is captured.

The "Distribution Checklist"

Before you hit "Submit" on your release, check the following:

  1. [ ] Audio Quality: Are you uploading the high-res WAV file (not a compressed MP3)?

  2. [ ] Licensing Tier: Does your current license cover your expected stream count? (e.g., If you expect 10,000+ streams, ensure you have upgraded to a WAV or Stems license).

  3. [ ] Credit Check: Is "Produced by Stephen Allen Music" included in the song description or liner notes?

  4. [ ] Split Check: Have you assigned the 10% Master Royalty and 50% Publishing share?

Why This Matters

Proper distribution ensures that your music is available globally while protecting the legal rights of both the Artist and the Producer. Following these steps prevents "Copyright Strikes" and ensures that as your song grows, your business foundation is rock solid.

Need a license upgrade before you distribute? If your record is gaining momentum and you need to move from an MP3 lease to a Stems license for unlimited distribution, [Visit the Library Here].