Music distribution for independent artists and labels

Encre delivers your releases and metadata to digital music services through authorized distribution partners, and handles the work around it: rights checks, statements, and takedown requests. There are no upfront fees — you keep 85% of net receipts and Encre retains 15% — and you keep ownership of your recordings.

Apply to Encre Contact our team

Who it is for

Independent artists releasing their own music, and record labels with catalogs, who own or control the rights to what they submit. Artists and labels each sign their own agreement. Labels distributing on behalf of artists confirm they have the authority to do so.

What Encre handles

Release review for technical quality, metadata, artwork, and rights
Preparation and delivery of release metadata and artwork
Delivery of accepted releases to supported services through distribution partners
Statements and reporting on revenue Encre actually receives
Content identification and monetization where supported and available
Takedown requests and release updates

How it works

ApplyChoose the artist or label application and tell us about your catalog.
Review and invitationEncre reviews your application. If accepted, you receive a single-use invitation by email.
Sign your agreementYou read the full agreement and choose exclusive or non-exclusive distribution, and worldwide or limited territory. The choices are recorded with your signature.
Account activationEncre activates your account. Signing alone does not activate it.
Submit a releaseAdd release details, audio, artwork, and confirm your rights. Encre reviews it and may ask for changes.
DeliveryApproved releases are delivered by Encre. Status updates are emailed to you, and a release is shown as live only when Encre sets it live.

What you need to submit

Audio masters in WAV or FLAC format
Cover artwork in JPG or PNG
Accurate release details, credits, and language
Confirmation that you own or control the rights, including samples, beats, and featured contributions
For labels: authority from the artists whose recordings you submit

Common questions

Do I keep ownership of my music?

Yes. The agreement does not transfer ownership of your recordings or compositions to Encre. It grants the distribution rights you select for the term and territory you choose.

Can I use another distributor too?

It depends on the arrangement you choose when you sign. Exclusive distribution means you do not appoint another distributor for the same covered rights. Non-exclusive distribution lets you use others, as long as it does not conflict with the rights granted to Encre.

Will my release be accepted everywhere?

No one can promise that. Platforms decide whether to accept, publish, feature, or remove content. Encre does not guarantee a release date, playlist placement, audience size, or revenue.

How and when am I paid?

Encre issues statements based on revenue it has actually received from platforms and partners. Payout minimums and timing are set out in your agreement, which you read in full before signing.

Is there something for podcasts and film?

Yes. See podcast distribution and film distribution below.

Is Encre music distribution free?

Yes. There are no upfront fees: you keep 85% of net receipts and Encre retains 15%. Every creator applies and signs an agreement first, so the commercial terms are clear before anything is released.

Ready to release with Encre?

Apply as an independent artist or a record label. If you have questions about rights or your catalog first, contact the team.