FAQ

Answers before your release goes live.

Everything important about applications, packages, stores, rights, reports and support. Short enough to scan, clear enough to decide.

Start & application Releases & stores Pricing & payouts Rights & catalog Support & services

Start & application

Check first, then start clean.

We do not want mass processing. New accounts are briefly reviewed so support, release quality and catalog structure fit from the start.

Helpful details are artist name, genre, existing links, planned releases and whether you work solo, as a label or with a team.

After approval and with an active package, you can create artists and prepare releases. For release dates with pitching or campaigns, you should still plan lead time.

First: it does not mean we do not like you or your music. Sometimes we are so busy that taking on new projects would be unfair to current artists and clients. Sometimes the setup is simply not quite there yet. You are warmly invited to apply again after 30 days. Fingers crossed.

Both. Individual artists get a clear release workflow, while labels and teams get more structure for multiple artists, approvals and reports.

Releases & stores

Everything your drop needs.

The relevant streaming and social platforms are covered, including Spotify, iTunes / Apple Music, Deezer, TikTok, YouTube and other stores in our network.

Yes. If a release should not appear everywhere, the store selection can be set accordingly. What matters is that the strategy fits the release.

For a relaxed workflow, several weeks are ideal. We can also send a release to stores very quickly, sometimes on the same day. Most of the time, though, that is not what your release really needs. Lead time leaves enough room for review, cover, metadata and pitch prep.

Then the release is not pushed out blindly. You get a note on what should be adjusted before delivery continues.

Some changes are possible, others depend on the stores. It is best to reach out early so we can check the cleanest path.

That can work depending on your previous distributor and release status. Clear rights, clean codes and a clean transfer plan matter.

Pricing & payouts

Stay transparent, especially when money is involved.

You receive 100% of the revenue we receive from stores or partners. In short: what we get, we pass on to you.

Label setups vary a lot: number of artists, release volume, team structure and support needs are not always the same. That is why we align it properly.

After you publish a release, stores usually need about 3 to 4 months until the first accounting cycle. Your stats may stay empty for a while or new releases may not show up in statements yet. That is normal and completely typical. Once data is available, it is prepared for statements, wallet and payouts.

Payouts are prepared through the client area and the statements visible there. Details depend on your account and available accounting data.

Rights & catalog

Your music stays your catalog.

Yes. Your music, your masters, your catalog. You only grant CultureCartel the distribution rights we need to deliver, manage and account for your releases properly.

If you already have ISRC or UPC codes, we can use them depending on the case. If not, we provide the required codes free of charge.

Yes, depending on package and setup. For larger catalogs, a label or team setup makes sense so roles and releases stay organized.

Credits should be submitted completely and correctly. That helps with store review and makes your release look professional.

Support & services

When your release needs more than upload.

Depending on your needs, artwork, mixing, mastering, marketing support and pitch prep can be requested.

No. You do not need your own label. If you want, you can enter a fantasy name and build your own label or brand externally. If you do not want that, just leave the fields empty.

We can support you with preparation. No one can seriously guarantee placement, but good data, lead time and assets improve the starting point.

You can cancel anytime. Your catalog belongs to you. If your package does not continue, we take your releases offline and you can move to another distributor with your UPC and ISRC codes. Feel free to write us first; often we can find a solution that fits your next step better.

After approval, you use support inside the client area. Before that, your application helps us understand what your project is about.

Yes. If your project is more specific, describe it directly in your application. Then we can better assess which setup makes sense.

Still open?

Then send us your project. Many questions are easiest to answer once we know what you are really planning.

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