How do free music distribution platforms make money?

Most free distribution platforms operate on a revenue-sharing model. Instead of charging artists an upfront fee, they take a small percentage of the royalties earned from streaming platforms and digital downloads. This allows musicians to distribute music without financial risk while the distributor profits only when the artist succeeds. Some platforms also offer premium features, such as faster release times, detailed analytics, or 100% royalty retention, which come with paid subscription plans. This hybrid model ensures that both emerging artists and professional musicians have flexible options depending on their budget and career goals.