What are the benefits and drawbacks of using a service like CD Baby or TuneCore for music registration?

1 What are CD Baby and TuneCore?

CD Baby and TuneCore are two of the most popular online music distribution and administration services. They allow you to upload your songs to various digital platforms, such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and more, and collect your earnings from streams and downloads. They also offer music registration services, such as registering your songs with performing rights organizations (PROs), mechanical rights agencies, and sound recording databases. These services help you claim your ownership of your songs and collect your performance, mechanical, and neighboring rights royalties.

2 What are the benefits of using CD Baby or TuneCore?

One of the main benefits of using CD Baby or TuneCore is convenience. You can register your songs with multiple entities in one place, without having to deal with paperwork, fees, or deadlines. You can also track your earnings and statements from different sources in one dashboard, and access various tools and resources to promote your music and grow your fan base. Another benefit is affordability. CD Baby and TuneCore charge a one-time fee per song or album, or a yearly subscription fee, depending on the service you choose. Compared to hiring a music publisher or administrator, this can be a more cost-effective option for independent artists or small labels.

3 What are the drawbacks of using CD Baby or TuneCore?

However, using CD Baby or TuneCore also has some drawbacks. One of them is control. When you use these services, you are giving them the authority to register and administer your songs on your behalf, which means you have to abide by their terms and conditions, and trust them to handle your rights and royalties correctly. You also have to rely on their customer service and support if you have any issues or questions. Another drawback is completeness. CD Baby and TuneCore do not cover all aspects of music registration and administration. For example, they do not register your songs with the U.S. Copyright Office, which is important for legal protection and enforcement. They also do not collect all types of royalties, such as sync fees or print royalties, which you may need to pursue separately.

4 How to choose between CD Baby and TuneCore?

If you decide to use an online service like CD Baby or TuneCore for music registration, it is important to compare their features and fees carefully to ensure you are selecting the best option for your needs and budget. Consider factors such as the number of songs or albums you want to register and distribute, the frequency with which you release new music or update your catalog, the platforms you want to distribute your music to, the types of royalties you want to collect and how often, as well as any additional services or benefits such as marketing, promotion, licensing, or education.

5 How to supplement CD Baby or TuneCore with other services?

When registering music with CD Baby or TuneCore, you don't have to rely on them exclusively. You can also use other services or platforms to complement your music rights and royalties management. For instance, you can register your songs with the U.S. Copyright Office yourself or through a service like Songtrust, join a PRO directly or through a service like ASCAP Plus, use a sync licensing platform like SyncFloor to pitch your music for film, TV, or ads, utilize a print music platform like Musicnotes to sell your sheet music or tabs, and employ a fan engagement platform like Patreon to connect with your supporters and offer them exclusive content or perks. While CD Baby and TuneCore may be convenient and affordable options for protecting your rights and collecting royalties as a musician, it's important to be aware of their drawbacks and limitations, and consider other alternatives that may better suit your goals and needs.