If you’re an independent artist looking to share your music with the world, you’ve probably come across United Masters vs TuneCore. Both platforms promise to help you distribute your tracks to major streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. But which one is right for you? In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these two popular music distribution services. We’ll compare features, pricing, royalties, ease of use, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of which platform best suits your music career.
What is United Masters?
United Masters is a music distribution platform that focuses on empowering independent artists. Founded in 2017, it’s relatively new but has gained attention for its innovative approach. It emphasizes helping artists connect with brands and monetize their music beyond streaming revenue.
Some unique features of United Masters include distribution to major streaming platforms, sync licensing opportunities with brands like NBA, ESPN, and Bose, and direct fan engagement through data insights. United Masters also offers free and premium plans, giving artists flexibility based on their needs and budget. But how does it stack up against TuneCore? Let’s find out.
What is TuneCore?
TuneCore is one of the oldest and most established music distribution platforms. Founded in 2005, it has been a go-to service for independent musicians for nearly two decades. TuneCore helps you distribute your music to over 150 digital stores and streaming platforms worldwide.
TuneCore stands out for its transparent pricing structure, 100% royalty payouts to artists, and comprehensive tools for managing your music career. While TuneCore has a solid reputation, it’s important to see how it compares to the newer and more dynamic United Masters.
United Masters vs TuneCore: Key Differences
When comparing United Masters and TuneCore, there are a few standout differences to keep in mind. These include pricing, royalties, user experience, and additional services like sync licensing and analytics.
Pricing
United Masters offers both free and premium plans. The free plan allows you to distribute your music but takes a 10% cut of your royalties. The premium plan, called United Masters Select, costs $59.99 per year and lets you keep 100% of your royalties.
TuneCore operates differently. It charges a flat fee per release. For example, a single costs $14.99 annually, and an album costs $29.99 in the first year (with a renewal fee of $49.99 in subsequent years). This model works well for artists who plan to release music regularly but can become costly for those with many tracks.
Royalties
United Masters provides an option to keep 100% of your royalties if you opt for their premium plan. On the free plan, they take a 10% cut, which is still competitive compared to other platforms.
TuneCore takes no cut from your royalties. Whatever you earn from streams and downloads is entirely yours. This transparency has been a key selling point for TuneCore over the years.
Ease of Use
Both platforms are designed with simplicity in mind, but they cater to slightly different audiences. United Masters focuses on integrating modern tools like analytics and brand partnerships, making it ideal for tech-savvy artists looking to grow beyond streaming.
TuneCore, on the other hand, offers a straightforward dashboard that appeals to artists who want a no-frills approach to music distribution. Its interface is beginner-friendly, and its extensive network of stores makes it a great choice for wide-reaching distribution.
Additional Features
One of United Masters’ strongest features is its ability to connect artists with sync licensing opportunities. This means your music could be featured in commercials, TV shows, or films, opening up additional revenue streams. TuneCore also offers sync licensing, but United Masters places a stronger emphasis on this area.
Which Platform is Better for You?
Choosing between United Masters and TuneCore ultimately depends on your specific needs as an artist. If you’re looking for a modern platform with brand partnerships and innovative features, United Masters might be the way to go. It’s especially appealing if you want flexibility with pricing and additional tools like analytics and sync opportunities.
On the other hand, if you value a more traditional approach to music distribution with transparent pricing and 100% royalty payouts, TuneCore could be the better choice. It’s a tried-and-true option for artists who want maximum control over their earnings and a simple distribution process.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between United Masters vs TuneCore can feel overwhelming, but it all comes down to your goals as an independent artist. Both platforms offer excellent services, but their differences can make one more suitable for you than the other. Consider what matters most to you—whether it’s pricing, royalties, features, or partnerships—and choose the platform that aligns with your vision.
As the music industry evolves, platforms like United Masters and TuneCore continue to empower independent artists. No matter which you choose, the most important thing is to take action and share your music with the world. After all, your journey as an artist starts with the first step. So, which one will you pick?
For further reading, explore these related articles:
- Taylor Swift’s Billboard Story: How She Became a Record-Breaking Superstar
- The Rise of BTS: A Look into Their Journey through Billboard
For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit Deliver My Tune.
