Zil Distribution5 min read
Major labels are no longer an option for most viral artists
By Ángeles Delfina Herrera
62.1% of artists with 1M-10M U.S. On-Demand Audio Streams have independent distribution (Luminate data).
TikTok vs. Spotify Discovery
- TikTok: Algorithm promotes short, catchy content. A viral sound can reach millions for free through UGC content
- Spotify: Relies on editorial playlists requiring curator connections — slower, more manual process
Why Independence Works
- Artists maintain creative freedom and complete control
- Direct fan connection through TikTok chat
- No contract requirements
- Catering to specific niches and subcultures
The monopoly of large labels is weakening. Having major label support is no longer necessary to reach a large audience.