SoundCloud has added a new distribution feature to its SoundCloud Premier toolset.
The platform expanded its direct monetisation programme last year – a move seen as a challenge to Spotify’s ambitions to sign up DIY artists.
With the new feature, creators monetising original music on SoundCloud can now add distribution directly into all major music services, including Amazon Music, Apple Music, Instagram, Spotify, Tencent and YouTube Music.
Monetisation and distribution tools are built directly into existing SoundCloud Pro and Pro Unlimited subscription accounts at no extra cost.
Artists using the SoundCloud Premier distribution feature retain 100% of their rights and distribution royalties from third-party services.
“Only SoundCloud empowers creators with a unified platform to instantly upload and share, connect with fans in real-time and get paid for their work everywhere - both on SoundCloud and across other leading music services,” said CEO Kerry Trainor. “Creators can now spend less time and money jumping between different tools, and more time making music, connecting with fans and growing their careers first on SoundCloud.”
Prior to rolling out the open beta, SoundCloud worked with a number of artists in a closed beta environment to test and get feedback on the new feature.
“I believe SoundCloud’s new distribution tool is the way of the future for independent artists and music in general,” said rising female rapper Leaf. “It makes distribution an easy one-step process, giving you a very simple way to monetise your plays and the freedom to reach new heights with your fan base.”
To be eligible, artists need to have a SoundCloud Pro or Pro Unlimited subscription, as well as having 1,000 plays in the past month where SoundCloud listener subscriptions are available (US, UK, Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand).
Eligible creators will be notified via email and in-product notifications from February 19.
FOLLOW 
