Hello again! It’s Paul Olorunsola! If you are an aspiring artist or even an established musician, you may be asking, “How do I sell my music on iTunes for free?” I’m going to share everything you need to know step-by-step with you from my years of experience.
Why Sell Your Music on iTunes and Apple Music?
Let’s face it, folks, there are millions of active user accounts in and around the world on platforms such as iTunes and now Apple Music.
If you are selling your songs on there, you’re putting yourself in front of a global audience of fans always looking for new artists.
But how can you sell your music on either of these platforms without a hefty price tag while being compensated for your work?
Can You Really Sell Music on iTunes For Free?
The that as much as I wish you could, there is no way to just go log into itunes or apple music and upload your music.
Apple has teamed up with various third-party platforms called “Apple approved aggregators”.
They will allow independent musicians to get their music distributed to Apple Music, iTunes Store and the rest of the music distribution platforms (Spotify, etc).
Some of the more popular aggregators are, DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby, and Amuse.
Which One to Use – Free Versus Paid Aggregators
While services like TuneCore and CD Baby are standard in the music industry for formatting, the music distribution fees are high.
DistroKid is a value based yearly subscription service. Both have pros and cons:
- Amuse: Free to upload and distribute, with premium options if desired
- DistroKid: Yearly fee, unlimited music uploaded
- TuneCore: Pay-per-release and high quality distribution and promotional services.
If you’re just starting out, Amuse could be your perfect option to get your songs on iTunes and Apple Music for free.
Step 1: Get your Music Ready
Before you distribute your music, double check that your songs have been professionally mastered to meet music industry standards.
You will also need to create quality album artwork because it is the first thing that your potential listeners will see.
Step 2: Create an Account with an Apple Approved aggregator
I recommend using Amuse if you are looking for a free option. Sign up, complete your artist profile, and upload your songs and album artwork.
Step 3: Distribute your Music
After you upload your songs and album artwork, you will need to submit your release date. Amuse will automatically distribute your music to Apple Music, iTunes Store, Spotify, Military Entertainment, etc.
Step 4: Track your Sale and Streams
Through your aggregator dashboard, you will be able to track your sales, streams and your overall earnings stream. Amuse is an excellent aggregator that has a simple and effective dashboard.
Getting Paid from iTunes and Apple Music
It usually takes a few months for a payment to clear and be eligible for payment. After your payment clears, Amuse (and other aggregators) will let you transfer the payment directly to your PayPal or bank.
Promoting your Music After it is Distributed
Uploading your music is only step 1; you will need to actively engage in promotion.
- Use social media like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter.
- Create entertaining music videos or lyric videos on YouTube.
- Collaborate with influencers or artists.
- Connect frequently with your audience to nurture your fanbase.
Answering Common Questions
How do I sell my music on iTunes for free 2022?
Simply join a free aggregator, like Amuse, for zero upfront fees and you’ll have the ability to distribute your music online.
What is the difference between iTunes Connect and Apple Music?
iTunes Connect—now titled Apple Music for Artists—provides musicians and artists with the ability to track the performance of their music, update their profile, and get helpful statistics.
Can I sell my songs on Spotify?
Absolutely! Aggregators distribute to Spotify, Apple Music iTunes, and more all at once.
What are Apple approved aggregators?
Apple approved aggregators are independent third-party distributors that work and partner directly with Apple. Popular aggregators are DistroKid, TuneCore, Amuse and CD Baby.
My Conclusion
Selling your music on iTunes and Apple Music for free is easy!
With the right aggregator, consistency, tireless promotion, and continued persistent practice/effort towards becoming better should lead to you and your music’s success!
So what are you waiting for?
Get started today to let the world hear your music, and remember, every musician/artist you look up to and every successful musician/artist was at the exact same point you are at right now and so will you! Good luck!
