Unlocking the Power of TikTok's SoundOn for Independent Artists

In today’s rapidly evolving music industry, independent artists face a myriad of challenges and opportunities when it comes to getting their music heard. Navigating traditional gatekeepers and saturated digital landscapes can be daunting, and independent musicians need innovative tools to ‘break on through to the other side.’ One of these tools is TikTok’s SoundOn platform—a game-changing initiative that is reshaping how music is discovered, shared, and monetized. Let’s explore how TikTok’s SoundOn platform works and why it is a valuable resource for independent artists looking to expand their reach and elevate their careers.

What is TikTok’s SoundOn?

TikTok, the social media juggernaut known for its short-form video content, has built a reputation as a key driver of music trends and viral hits, that’s not news to anyone. Recognizing this massive influence, in 2022 TikTok launched SoundOn, a platform designed to help artists distribute their music directly to TikTok’s vast user base. SoundOn allows artists to upload their own tracks, which are then integrated into TikTok’s library, making them available for use in user-generated content worldwide. It basically functions like a digital distributor, but with TikTok’s ecosystem integrated. What does this mean, exactly, for artists?

• A Direct Pipeline to Global Audiences

One of the most compelling aspects of SoundOn is its direct pipeline from artist to audience. Unlike traditional music distribution channels that often require intermediaries like record labels or distributors, SoundOn offers a streamlined approach. Independent artists can upload their music, monitor its performance, and receive data-driven insights—all from one centralized platform. This enables artists to harness TikTok’s powerful algorithm to expand their reach.

• Seamless Integration with TikTok’s Ecosystem

TikTok’s recommendation engine is legendary for its ability to predict and promote content that resonates with users. By integrating music through SoundOn, artists can leverage this system to propel their tracks into viral trends. Whether it’s a snippet of a catchy chorus or a unique instrumental break, every part of an artist’s work can become the seed for a viral video, gaining momentum across diverse demographics and reaching millions of listeners.

SoundOn is available in a growing number of markets worldwide, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Brazil, and several European countries. TikTok has expanded the platform since its initial launch, making it accessible to more independent artists across the globe. As of now, it’s still being rolled out in some regions, so availability may vary.

The Benefits of SoundOn for Independent Artists

Let’s get to the nitty gritty of this platform. For independent artists, SoundOn represents more than just a distribution channel—it’s a tool that addresses several core aspects of a musician’s career. Here are some of the key benefits:

Increased Visibility and Discovery

TikTok’s user base spans millions of engaged users globally. By uploading tracks to SoundOn, independent artists position themselves within this vast network, dramatically increasing the chances of their music being discovered. The platform’s algorithm promotes content based on user behavior, which means that the right sound can quickly ‘catch fire,’ even without traditional marketing budgets.

Fast TikTok Verification 

Artists who distribute through SoundOn can get that coveted blue check or official artist status on TikTok more easily. SoundOn helps verify your TikTok artist profile quickly and link your music to your profile, something that used to be tricky for indie artists. This gives your profile more credibility and links fans directly to your music.

Data-Driven Insights

SoundOn provides artists with access to detailed analytics about how their tracks are performing. This includes information on demographics, engagement metrics, and geographic reach. With these insights, artists can better understand their audience, tailor their marketing strategies, and even adjust their sound to better align with listener preferences. These analytics help independent artists make informed decisions and measure the impact of their promotional efforts.

Monetization Opportunities

One of the standout features of SoundOn is its monetization potential. As independent artists gain traction on TikTok, they can also monetize their music through streams and engagements. The platform’s structure encourages organic sharing and remixing, which can lead to higher royalties and broader revenue streams. This model ensures that artists are rewarded for both the creative and viral success of their work.

Direct Artist Support

SoundOn is part of TikTok’s broader initiative to support creators and independent artists. This includes educational resources, promotional tools, and even potential partnerships. By being part of the SoundOn ecosystem, artists can tap into TikTok’s network of industry experts, collaborations, and support systems that are designed to foster artistic growth and innovation.

Creative Freedom and Control

Traditional record deals often come with strings attached, such as limited creative control, tight schedules, and contractual restrictions. With SoundOn, independent artists retain full creative ownership of their work. They have the freedom to experiment with new sounds, collaborate with other creators, and adjust their marketing strategies without the constraints imposed by traditional industry models.

Built-in Tools 

There are a few handy tools SoundOn offers artists, like, a TikTok Sound Clip Editor (to easily create preview clips or snippet edits of your song for TikTok), Pre-save and Pre-release features (to build hype on other platforms before a song drops), and the Commercial Music Library integration. SoundOn artists can opt into TikTok’s Commercial Music Library, allowing businesses to use their music in TikTok content – generating additional revenue for the artist).

How Does SoundOn Work?

Understanding the operational side of SoundOn is crucial for artists looking to maximize its benefits. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Signing Up and Onboarding

Artists begin their journey by creating an account on SoundOn. The onboarding process is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that even those new to digital distribution can navigate the platform with ease. During this phase, artists provide essential information about themselves, their music, and their creative vision. This data not only personalizes the experience, but also helps TikTok’s algorithm categorize and promote the music to relevant audiences.

Step 2: Uploading and Metadata Management

Once onboard, artists can upload their tracks directly to the platform. The upload process includes detailed metadata management, ensuring that every track is properly tagged with information such as genre, mood, and tempo. Accurate metadata is critical because it enhances the discoverability of the track within TikTok’s recommendation engine, ensuring that users who are most likely to enjoy the music actually find it.

Step 3: Selecting Your Distribution Platforms

Choose where you want your music distributed. SoundOn by default will distribute to TikTok and Resso, and you can opt in to other major streaming services, such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and so on, as well as Instagram/Facebook music libraries. Essentially, ensure all relevant platforms are selected, so your track goes everywhere your fans might listen.

Step 4: Pre-Release Tools

While waiting for the release date (if you scheduled one), artists can take advantage of SoundOn’s promotional tools. For instance, generate a pre-save link to share with your fans so they can pre-save your song on Spotify or Apple Music. Also, consider using the TikTok Sound Clip Editor to create a teaser snippet of your song that you can post on TikTok as a preview, building excitement.

Step 5: Analytics and Real-Time Feedback

After the music is live, SoundOn offers real-time analytics that provide insights into how the track is performing. This includes data on views, shares, and geographical distribution of the audience. By monitoring these metrics, artists can gauge the effectiveness of their content and adjust their strategies accordingly. This feedback loop is invaluable, as it allows for rapid experimentation and optimization.

Step 6: Monetization and Royalty Distribution

As tracks gain popularity, SoundOn tracks user engagement and converts these interactions into monetization opportunities. Royalty payments are processed on a regular basis, providing a steady revenue stream that can be reinvested into further creative endeavors. This system is particularly beneficial for independent artists who may not have the upfront financial support of a record label.

How SoundOn Helps Independent Artists Take Their Career to the Next Level

While it’s not a magic bullet, SoundOn does offer tools and opportunities that can help emerging musicians grow their presence in a highly competitive digital music landscape. Let’s look at the most critical advantages.

Creating Viral Moments

One of TikTok’s biggest strengths is its ability to create viral trends—and SoundOn makes it easier for artists to feed into that system. A short clip from a song might catch on as background music for a meme, dance, or challenge, sometimes leading to significant spikes in listens, shares, and streams. While going viral isn’t guaranteed, SoundOn gives artists a straightforward way to make their music available on the platform and see how it performs in real time.

Fostering Community and Collaboration

TikTok’s community-driven nature is one of its defining features, and SoundOn fits into that ecosystem. Artists can connect and collaborate with content creators, dancers, and other musicians, building visibility in new and unexpected ways. These partnerships aren’t limited to big-name influencers either; many independent artists find traction by working with creators whose audiences are highly engaged and genre-specific.

Building a Loyal Fan Base

SoundOn provides basic analytics that help artists understand who’s listening and where their music is resonating. For independent musicians without access to a label’s data tools, this can be helpful for planning everything from release schedules to tour stops—or simply understanding what kinds of songs are clicking with their audience.

Adapting to Industry Trends

With the music industry shifting more toward platform-based discovery, SoundOn gives independent artists another way to keep pace with evolving trends. TikTok has already become a launchpad for many breakout tracks, and SoundOn serves as a direct line between an artist’s work and the platform’s ecosystem.

SoundOn vs. Other Distribution Platforms

SoundOn vs. DistroKid: DistroKid charges an annual fee (~$20/year) but takes 0% commission. SoundOn has no upfront cost and takes a 10% commission after the first year, making it ideal for artists focused on TikTok growth, while DistroKid is better for broader distribution.

SoundOn vs. TuneCore: TuneCore charges per release (e.g., ~$10 for singles), while SoundOn is free upfront with a 10% commission after year one. TuneCore offers broader distribution and additional services, but SoundOn benefits from TikTok’s built-in promotional tools.

SoundOn vs. AWAL: AWAL is selective and targets established artists, offering more personalized support, but with a 15% commission. SoundOn is open to all artists, with TikTok’s promotion tools helping emerging talent grow without gatekeeping.

Tips on using SoundOn to your advantage

For artists interested in exploring the opportunities offered by SoundOn, here are some practical steps to get started:

• Understand your target audience and prepare high-quality tracks that reflect your unique sound. Ensure your music is well-produced and tagged with accurate metadata to enhance discoverability.
  
  
• Your SoundOn profile is your digital storefront. Include a compelling bio, high-resolution images, and links to your social media channels. A professional profile increases your credibility and attracts both fans and potential collaborators.
  
  
• TikTok is built on community and interaction. Engage with your audience through comments, challenges, and collaborations. Use analytics to understand what content resonates most with your followers, and adjust your strategy accordingly.
  
  
• Follow industry news, trending hashtags, and popular challenges on TikTok. This knowledge will help you time your releases and tailor your content to current trends, maximizing your chances of going viral.
  
  
• Regularly review the performance metrics provided by SoundOn. Use this data to experiment with different promotional strategies, optimize your release schedules, and refine your sound based on audience feedback.
  
  
• Familiarize yourself with the platform’s monetization model. Understand how royalties are distributed, and consider reinvesting some of your earnings into better production or targeted marketing campaigns.