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DistroKid vs. SAMRO: Understanding the Difference

  • Writer: Anga Hackula
    Anga Hackula
  • Jan 6, 2025
  • 3 min read

Updated: Jan 11, 2025

I often get asked variations of the same question: What is DistroKid? What is SAMRO? Should I register with both? What’s the difference between the two?

In this video, I’ll explain the fundamental differences between DistroKid and SAMRO, why you should consider registering with both, and how they serve distinct purposes in the music industry.



What Is SAMRO?

SAMRO collects performance royalties for musicians
SAMRO collects performance royalties for musicians

SAMRO stands for the Southern African Music Rights Organisation. It’s what’s known as a Performance Rights Organisation (PRO). SAMRO is responsible for collecting performance royalties on behalf of music creators.

Here’s how it works:

  • Whenever your music is played publicly—on TV, radio, at live performances, or in any other public setting—SAMRO collects royalties on your behalf.

  • In simple terms, SAMRO ensures you’re paid when your music is used in public spaces.

SAMRO operates exclusively in South Africa, and if you’re based there, registering with SAMRO is a critical first step for protecting your rights and earning income from your music’s public performance.

Click here to learn: How To Register With SAMRO


What Is DistroKid?


Distrokid gets your music onto online platforms.
Distrokid gets your music onto online platforms.

DistroKid is a digital distributor. It helps musicians and artists upload their songs to popular streaming platforms like:

  • Spotify

  • Apple Music

  • iTunes

  • Tidal

  • And many others.

DistroKid does not collect performance royalties. Instead, it focuses on getting your music out to a global audience via digital platforms. To get 7% off of distrokid click here.


Key Differences

At their core, SAMRO and DistroKid perform different tasks:

  1. SAMRO collects performance royalties when your music is publicly played or performed.

  2. DistroKid distributes your music to streaming and download platforms so it’s available to listeners worldwide.

Because their objectives are different, you can (and should) register with both.


Should You Register with Both?

The short answer is yes. Here’s why:

  • SAMRO ensures you’re paid for public performances of your music, such as live gigs or radio airplay.

  • DistroKid ensures your music is available on major streaming platforms, allowing you to earn revenue from streams and downloads.

By registering with both, you cover different income streams and maximise your earning potential.


How to Register with SAMRO

SAMRO has streamlined its registration process into a simple 5-step online system. It takes about 20 minutes to complete.

How to Sign Up for DistroKid

DistroKid also has an easy-to-use online registration system.

  • However, unlike SAMRO, DistroKid charges an annual subscription fee.

  • Depending on the plan you choose, you can release unlimited music to platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.

For beginners, DistroKid is an affordable and user-friendly way to get your music out there. Here's an an affiliate link to get 7% off your annual subscription: https://distrokid.com/vip/seven/607410

Other Organisations You Should Know

If you’re a South African musician, SAMRO is not the only organisation you need to register with. To fully protect your rights and collect all potential royalties, consider registering with:

  1. CAPASSO: For mechanical royalties from reproductions of your music (e.g., downloads or physical copies).

  2. SAMPRA: For needle-time royalties when your music is broadcast or played in public via recordings.

These three organisations—SAMRO, CAPASSO, and SAMPRA—complement each other and ensure you’re fully covered as a music creator. I’ve included links in the description explaining each of these organisations and how to register.


Alternatives to DistroKid

If DistroKid doesn’t suit your needs, there are other digital distributors to consider:

  • CD Baby

  • TuneCore

These platforms offer similar services to DistroKid, helping you distribute music to streaming platforms.


My Recommendation

If you’re just starting out, I recommend:

  1. Registering with SAMRO first to ensure your performance royalties are covered.

  2. Using DistroKid (or an alternative) to distribute your music to a global audience.

By registering with both, you’ll set a solid foundation for earning revenue from both public performances and digital streams/downloads.


Final Thoughts

I hope this video has clarified the differences between DistroKid and SAMRO. Remember, these two entities serve very different purposes but are equally important for your success as a musician.

If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments. Don’t forget to check the links in the description for guides and affiliate links to get started.


Until next time, keep making great music!







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