UnitedMasters is a leading music distribution platform that empowers independent artists by providing them with premium distribution, brand partnerships, and sync licensing opportunities. Unlike traditional labels, UnitedMasters allows artists to retain full ownership of their master recordings while distributing their music to major streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and TikTok. Through its SELECT program, artists gain access to exclusive brand deals and sync placements in films, TV, video games, and commercials. At Starving Arts, we support local musicians by helping them distribute their music through UnitedMasters, ensuring they have the tools needed to succeed in today’s industry.
Upload Your Music
1. Create or Log in to Your UnitedMasters Account
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Visit UnitedMasters.com and either sign up for a free or premium account.
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If you already have an account, log in with your credentials.
2. Choose Your Distribution Plan
UnitedMasters offers two plans:
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Free Plan:
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Distribution to major streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.).
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Artists keep 90% of royalties.
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Basic analytics and promotional tools.
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UnitedMasters SELECT Plan ($59.99/year):
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100% of royalties retained.
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Advanced music analytics.
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Sync licensing opportunities (get your music placed in TV, film, video games, and ads).
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Additional revenue streams, brand partnerships, and more.
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👉 If you want access to sync licensing, you must be on the SELECT plan.
3. Prepare Your Music and Artwork
Before uploading, ensure you have:
✅ Audio file: Must be WAV, FLAC, or MP3 (high quality recommended).

✅ Cover art: At least 3000x3000 pixels, JPEG/PNG format, no explicit content or copyrighted images.

✅ Metadata:
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Track title (must match metadata)
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Artist name (must match DSP profiles)
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Explicit content tag (if applicable)
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and sub-genre
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Producer credits
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Label name (if applicable)
4. Upload Your Single
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Navigate to the “Releases” section.
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Click "Create a Release" and select "Single".
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Upload your audio file and cover art.
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Enter the track details (metadata).
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Choose if the song has explicit content.
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Select the release date (ASAP or schedule a future date).
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Choose platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, etc.).
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Enable sync licensing (only for SELECT members).
5. Monetization & Sync Licensing
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Sync Licensing (For Film, TV, and Ads): If you're a SELECT member, your song will automatically be considered for sync opportunities through UnitedMasters’ partnerships with brands like ESPN, NBA, and more.
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Monetization on Social Media: Enable TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Content ID, and Facebook monetization.
6. Submit for Review & Approval
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Review your details to ensure accuracy.
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Click "Submit" to send your track for review.
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Approval typically takes 1-2 weeks, but delays may happen.
7. Promote Your Single
Once your single is live:
✅ Share the streaming links on social media.

✅ Use UnitedMasters’ promo tools (social sharing, Smart Links).

✅ Engage fans with exclusive content on TikTok & Instagram.

✅ Pitch for playlist placements on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
8. Track Your Earnings & Insights
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Go to “Analytics” to monitor streams, engagement, and revenue.
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Withdraw your royalties anytime via PayPal or bank transfer.
Final Tips
✅ Make sure your metadata is accurate to avoid rejection.

✅ Consider pre-saving your release to maximize first-day streams.

✅ Use UnitedMasters marketing tools to increase visibility.

✅ Sync licensing is not guaranteed—UnitedMasters pitches your song, but placement depends on brand needs.