Rapchat Distro Guide for Producers

Over the coming months we are rolling out a new distribution service called Rapchat Distro. Currently in beta for a small group of users, Rapchat Distro is the easiest way to share songs to Spotify, Apple Music, and hundreds of streaming services. More details will be announced upon the launch, but the service will allow users to release songs, view analytics, and collect royalties & splits. 

What are "Distro Beats"?

Distro Beats have been cleared for limited distribution through Rapchat without needing to pay an upfront beat license. In exchange, producers get 50% royalties, streaming analytics, and closer access to artists. Only songs created and distributed through Rapchat are eligible, otherwise they still require a standard beat license. 

How will Producers benefit from Distro?

Producers to get unprecedented access, transparency, and upside in the songs distributed through Rapchat Distro. For each song released over a "Distro Beat," the producer will get:

1. 50% Royalties: We believe producers deserve an equal portion of the upside for songs created in Rapchat and hard-code this into the Distro contract so that you won't need to track artists down and negotiate.

2. Song Credits: Every song that uses your beat will list you in the credits and publishing—again hard-coded so that you never are left out. 

3. Connect Directly to Artists: You will be able to view and email the artists using your beats to reach out about collaboration, feedback, or simply building your network.

4. Access to Streaming Analytics: Knowledge is power. Get insights into how songs using your beats are perform on streaming platforms. This data can guide your future projects, helping you understand what resonates with listeners (as well as get alerted when one is going viral!)

5. Increased Visibility: And the cherry on top? Beats marked as "Distro Beats" will get prime real estate on Rapchat. They will be featured more prominently in our feature feed and discover screen to give you more exposure.

How do I approve my beats for "Distro Beats"?

Making your beats available for distribution is as easy as a few taps! Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your beats are eligible:

1. Enable Distro for All Beats at Once:

   • Go to your profile page.
   • Tap on the "Enable Distro" button.
   • Presto! All your uploaded beats are now set to "Distro Eligible" status.

2. Enable Distro for Individual Beats:

   • Navigate to the specific beat you want to set as "Distro Eligible".
   • Tap on the menu button located next to the beat.
   • From the dropdown, select "Enable for Distro".

3. For Future Beat Uploads:

   • When uploading a new beat, you’ll notice a checkbox during the process.
   • Ensure that this checkbox is checked to automatically make the new upload "Distro Eligible".

Note: The first time you enable a beat for distribution, we'll need a bit more info from you. This ensures we handle the financials properly, get your royalties to you without a hitch, link your Spotify/Apple Music profile if you have one, and ensure proper credits are attributed. 

**For now only a small group of beta testers can view Distro Beats and it will not be live in the app until Distro is available to all users**

How will this affect my beat sales?

From our customer research and surveys, relatively few artists are currently purchases beat licenses to distribute songs that they created in the app. We're opening up distribution to a new audience that should only increase each producer's business. However, we will still encourage artists to purchase a beat license if they do not want to share royalties and data with producers. The "Purchase Beat" link to you current store will be prominent. 

What beats qualify for Distro Beats?

As long as you are the creator / owner of the beat, and there are no 3rd party copyrights violated, you can make it available as a Distro Beat. If there are royalties that need to be paid out as part of distribution then it is your sole responsibility to manage any splits. 

How can I see which beats are Distro Beats?

Once you've made your beats eligible for distribution, you can filter the beats (on the web only right now) by clicking on "All Beats" and then switching to "Distro Beats." After the beta period, artists will be able to view a Distro Beat badge throughout the app.

Can I remove my Distro Beats if I change my mind?

Producers can use full discretion to approve or remove Distro Beats at anytime. However, once a song has been distributed you cannot retroactively redact the license. 

How can I see songs that are distributed using my Distro Beats?

On the web, you will soon see a section called Distro Releases (not live at the moment) that will show all songs released over a beat as well as streaming analytics. 

How to I view and receive my royalties?

On the web, there will be a button on your profile page that says "Distro Hub" (not live yet) that will link to all your royalties and statements. You will be able to add your Paypal email and royalties will be sent out once at the end of each month.

When will this be launched?

At the moment, we are only opening up the beta for producers to mark their beats for Distro as well as a small group of artists to test the functionality. In the coming weeks you will begin to see songs released and your "Distro Hub" (to track royalties). 

How can I reach out?

Again, this new offering is in beta so we really appreciate your feedback and thoughts. Please reach out to distro@rapchat.com with any questions you have!