TuneCore, a digital music self-distribution service and owned by digital music company Believe, has announced that its artists have collectively earned over $4 billion since the company’s inception in 2006. This milestone underscores TuneCore’s position as the go-to platform for independent musicians looking to advance their careers.
Andreea Gleeson, Chief Executive Officer of TuneCore, stated, “In just a year and a half since our artists surpassed $3 billion in earnings, they’ve now reached another billion. Independent artists are at the forefront of musical innovation, pioneering new paths to success in the industry. Whether they’re just starting out or selling out stadiums, we’re proud to offer a platform that enhances their earnings and allows them to focus on creating impactful music.”
The $4 billion achievement reflects the earnings of artists at various stages, from newcomers earning their first streaming revenue to established musicians for whom music is a full-time career. This significant payout is bolstered by Believe’s direct agreements with digital service providers and TuneCore’s expanded offerings, including the TuneCore Publishing product and the TuneCore Accelerator program. These tools have helped independent artists thrive in a competitive industry by increasing their reach and revenue.
Globally, TuneCore continues to grow, with 77% of new artists and labels in 2024 joining from outside the United States. In India, one of TuneCore’s top three markets and its fastest-growing, the folktronic duo Tech Panda & Kenzani have harnessed their independence to achieve success. They’ve released over a hundred singles, gained a strong following, and even recorded a Hindi rendition of Post Malone and Swae Lee’s “Sunflower” for “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse.”
Kenzani reflected, “Making music started as a fun hobby but quickly turned into a professional pursuit. The journey has been enriching, exciting, challenging, and ultimately life-changing. The indie music movement has driven significant industry evolution, with independent artists leading the charge.”
Akhila Shankar, Head of TuneCore South Asia, remarked, “Reaching $4 billion in earnings is not only a milestone for TuneCore but also for the global independent music scene. The success of Indian artists has been instrumental in making India one of our top markets, demonstrating the growing influence of independent musicians.”
