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How to Choose the Right Music Distributor, According to Brandman Sean

  • Mars
  • 5 days ago
  • 2 min read

When it comes to choosing a music distributor, Brandman Sean of No Labels Necessary says artists are asking the wrong question.


“I hate that question,” he said, referring to the constant requests for distributor recommendations. “Instead of giving you a list, I want you to understand the seven principles I use to assess any platform.”


In his latest breakdown, Sean explains that picking the right distribution platform isn’t about hype — it’s about strategy, safety, and fit. His top pick for 2024 is LANDR, which he praises for its reliability, fair pricing, and artist-friendly flexibility.


“Set it and forget it,” he said. “You don’t want to be thinking about your distributor — you want to be spending your time marketing, building your brand, and making music.”


LANDR, originally known for AI mastering, has expanded into distribution and now offers features that Sean says many artists overlook when signing up for lesser-known services. That includes customer service, the ability to keep music up without a subscription during breaks, and easy importing tools for switching platforms.


Still, Sean warns against “scammy” platforms that prey on newer artists with vague promises and poor transparency. “There are enough decent distributors out there that if you end up in one of these scam situations, it’s hard to feel bad,” he said.


He encourages artists to think about their career level, goals, and long-term plans before choosing — and then move on. The real work, he emphasizes, starts after your music goes live.


Checklist: How to Choose the Right Distributor for Your Music


  1. Verify It’s Not a Scam – Look for public-facing teams, visible founders, and transparent company info.


  2. Check for Reliability – You should be able to “set it and forget it.” A good DSP won’t cause drama later.


  3. Know Your Size & Goals – Some platforms serve indie artists best; others offer label-level services.


  4. Look for Flexibility – Can you pause or leave the platform without losing your music?


  5. Test Customer Service – Research artist reviews and see how issues are handled.


  6. Use Import Tools – If switching, make sure it’s easy to transfer existing releases.


  7. Understand the Price – Watch for hidden fees, and make sure it fits your budget.

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