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How to Get a CD Distributed Without a Major Label

Getting a CD distributed is much easier these days for the independent artist. With the ease and affordability of digital music distribution, it is certainly easier for new artists to break into the market, even if it may be more difficult for them to make a living selling albums than before. Even the equipment necessary to record music has become much more accessible to the independent artist, with just about every laptop computer possessing the capability to be a digital recording studio.

Instructions

    • 1

      Record a copy of your album onto a physical CD using a computer or other recording device. You can distribute either an entire album or merely a single if desired.

    • 2

      Open an account with a independent music distributor, such as CDBaby, CDpulse.com or Tunecore (see Resources). Send it a copy of your album, including the album art that you would like distributed with your album. Wait a few weeks for your album to be approved. There may be some additions or changes required before your album can be shipped.

    • 3

      Configure your account to reflect the way you would like your album to be distributed. These sites can distribute your album to iTunes, as well as to all the other major distributors of digital music, such as Amazon.com and Virgin. Your music can also be made available for ringtone purchase. If you wish to open your music to distribution to all available sources, it can also be set up for purchase through other international music distributors.

    • 4

      Purchase a UPC code for your album or single. All of the album distribution is available for a basic fee. The UPC code, however, is necessary for you to have total ownership over the album and the sale of the music and is recommended.

Recording Music

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