Challenges artists face when starting to distribute music and how to overcome them

When starting music distribution, artists face significant challenges. In the digital age and the development of online platforms, reaching audiences and building a successful music career requires not only talent and creativity but also understanding of technical and distribution strategies. Here are some common challenges that artists often encounter when starting music distribution and how to overcome them.  

I. Challenges of working independently in the music industry  

1. Copyright protection is difficult     

For independent music artists, copyright protection is a significant challenge. In the world of technology and advancements, preventing unauthorized copying and usage of music works has become more complex. Three major obstacles make copyright protection challenging.  

Copyright protection
Copyright protection  

Firstly, with the development of online platforms like YouTube, SoundCloud, and Spotify, music distribution and sharing have become easier than ever. However, this also creates an environment where unauthorized copying and distribution of music become prevalent. Independent artists need to implement security measures, including audio file encryption, access limitations, and the use of security services to prevent unauthorized copying.  

 

Secondly, there are risks associated with sharing and distributing music. For independent artists, sharing and distributing music are essential for reaching audiences and building a fan base. However, sharing music on public platforms can create an environment where unauthorized copying and usage become common. Independent artists should consider using official music distribution services, signing copyright protection contracts, and learning about rights and copyright protection methods.  

 

Thirdly, there is the difficulty of identifying copyright infringements. In a complex online environment, identifying copyright infringements can be a challenging task. Detecting and monitoring unauthorized copying and distribution of music on the internet requires continuous monitoring and the use of monitoring and analysis tools. Independent artists can explore online copyright protection tools, such as YouTube's Content ID, to help detect and report copyright infringements.  

 

Fourthly, there are legal and financial limitations. Compared to major music labels, independent artists often face legal and financial limitations in protecting their copyrights. Copyright infringement lawsuits can require significant resources and time, and success is not always guaranteed. Moreover, the legal system is not always consistent and suitable for independent music creation. Independent artists need to understand their rights, seek support from organizations and artist associations, and consider different legal measures such as copyright registration and signing copyright protection contracts.  

2. Limitations in interaction abilities     

When working independently, music artists sometimes lack feedback and diverse opinions from others. The ability to interact with colleagues, producers, or people with shared music interests can be limited. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and lack of motivation to improve and refine music works. To overcome this, independent artists can seek online music communities or join composition groups to share ideas, receive feedback, and create an interactive environment.  

Limitations in interaction abilities
Limitations in interaction abilities  

A significant limitation of independent music composition is the lack of direct performance opportunities. Without a management team or a network, independent artists may struggle to find opportunities for live performances in front of audiences. To overcome this limitation, independent artists can leverage social media and online platforms to share their music, seek performance opportunities at local music events, or connect with event organizers.  

 

Additionally, the lack of a network and limited resources can reduce the ability to interact with the public and industry partners. This results in less exposure for the artist's works, reaching fewer audiences compared to the time and effort invested in conceiving, composing, producing, and delivering a work to the public.     

3. Brand recognition  

The independent music market is highly competitive, with thousands of different artists trying to capture the attention of audiences. To stand out in the crowd, artists need to create a unique and distinctive brand recognition. However, finding the right elements to reflect their individuality and music can be a challenge.  

 

Brand recognition goes beyond music and also encompasses the artist's image and style. Professional and consistent image management is a crucial factor in building a strong brand. However, independent artists often face financial limitations and lack the resources to hire professional image managers, which means they have to manage their own image and brand.     

II. Positive changes after collaborating with music distribution and copyright management agencies  

1. Vu Dinh Phuoc  

As a young singer entering the Vietnamese music market, Vu Dinh Phuoc faced various challenges in managing copyrights, interacting with audiences, and strengthening brand recognition while independently composing and distributing music on various platforms.  

 

In the early stages of releasing music, Vu Dinh Phuoc encountered cases where his music was exploited without his consent. However, at that time, he could not report the violations, so he only sent messages requesting the removal of unauthorized content. His ability to interact with new works was relatively low, as they were hardly known to the audience, with only a few close friends and relatives supporting him. The number of views was only in the hundreds. His personal brand was not prominent in the bustling market, and his personal YouTube channel was not optimized in terms of visuals.  

YouTube channel Vu Dinh Phuoc operates independently and distributes music himself
YouTube channel Vu Dinh Phuoc operates independently and distributes music himself  

 

However, after joining a network of creators and utilizing services such as music copyright distribution, Vu Dinh Phuoc found a path for his music with certain successes. His YouTube channel was optimized with improved visuals, information, thumbnails, and SEO support. The view count on his music videos consistently reached over 5000 views. His works were protected by copyright and had Content ID activated. Each new release received support from at least 20 media outlets through the TUBRR channel network and music distribution agencies.  

Vu Dinh Phuoc after joining TUBRR's creator network
Vu Dinh Phuoc after joining TUBRR's creator network  

2. Maize  

Before using music distribution services, Maize had produced quality music but was not well-known. Their previous collaborations with music distribution agencies did not receive much media support. Their YouTube channel was also not optimized for brand recognition.  

 

After using the services of TUBRR, Maize's YouTube channel was further optimized with additional information. Their new releases received more media support than expected, and the view count on their videos increased rapidly. When their music was distributed on Spotify, they achieved nearly 2000 streams within 7 days of release.     

Maize's Spotify
Maize's Spotify  

III. Benefits of Using TUBRR's Music Copyright Distribution Service  

1. Copyright Management  

TUBRR supports artists in protecting intellectual property rights and managing copyrights, helping content creators in the music industry avoid unauthorized copying and ensure fair income. This allows artists to enjoy economic benefits from their creative and recording work. As a result, creators have the freedom to focus on composing and producing high-quality, professionally crafted works that cater to audience preferences.     

2. Streamlining Music Distribution Processes  

TUBRR provides tools and services that facilitate easy distribution of artists' music across multiple platforms.  

With a vast network and partnerships with various music distribution platforms, including streaming platforms, online stores, and digital channels, collaborating with TUBRR allows artists to reach a large audience and potential fans that they may not have reached independently.  

 

Additionally, TUBRR has a team of marketing and advertising experts specializing in music. They can provide consultation and implement marketing strategies to enhance the artist's brand recognition and generate audience interest. TUBRR can also create advertising campaigns for artists on social media platforms and multi-platform channels to attract attention and increase reach.  

TUBRR collaborates with DAO Music Entertainment
TUBRR collaborates with DAO Music Entertainment  

Furthermore, TUBRR provides detailed statistical information and analysis of artists' music distribution performance on different platforms and channels. Through data analysis, artists can gain a better understanding of their audience, consumer trends, and ways to enhance their reach effectively.  

 

Moreover, TUBRR often has a team of experts in songwriting and music career development. They can offer support and guidance to artists in music production, personal branding, building partnerships, and career development.  

3. Increased Income  

TUBRR's music copyright distribution service helps artists optimize their income from music by reaching their target audience and enhancing their online presence.  

Increased income from online platforms
Increased income from online platforms  

TUBRR typically has access to and manages online revenue channels for artists, including streaming platforms like YouTube. By distributing artists' music on these platforms, TUBRR helps increase the artist's reach to a large audience and potential fans, thereby generating income from streams, downloads, or purchase transactions.  


Read more: Top 5 leading music copyright service providers in Vietnam  


TUBRR supports creators in spreading value  

As a reputable MCN brand with 10 years of development in the Czech Republic market, recognized as a trusted YouTube business partner, TUBRR - a multi-channel network and a strategic partner of WOA Media - confidently positions itself as the MCN with the deepest understanding of YouTube in Vietnam.  

Proud to be one of the first complete MCNs in Vietnam, TUBRR ensures the provision of a variety of high-quality professional services for creators, including:  

  • Creator management  
  • Channel support and development  
  • Providing a diverse range of free music and creative content libraries  
  • Licensing characters  
  • Offering premium  workshops to share knowledge about production and business activities on the YouTube platform.  

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