Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about OnChain Music
Artist Questions
How much does it cost?
Creating a public profile and distributing to DSPs, blockchain platforms, or Content ID is completely free. You keep 90% of all streaming revenue.
If you want your music searchable for sync licensing opportunities and eligible for music requests, plans start at $3/month for up to 10 songs or $9/month for up to 50 songs. Sync placements are split 50/50. You can review full plan details on our pricing page.
If you want your music searchable for sync licensing opportunities and eligible for music requests, plans start at $3/month for up to 10 songs or $9/month for up to 50 songs. Sync placements are split 50/50. You can review full plan details on our pricing page.
Who owns my music?
You retain 100% of all rights to your music, forever. We do not re-title your songs, claim any publishing, or take any ownership stake in your catalog. The only revenue we share in is upfront sync placement fees, which are split 50/50. Everything else, including streaming royalties and Content ID revenue, flows to you at 90%. Your music is yours.
What services do you offer?
We offer 5 main services for Artists and Labels:
1) A licensing platform which allows our customers to license your music for use on film, tv, ads, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Twitch, and more.
2) Music distribution to blockchain related music platforms, such as Audius and Aurovine.
3) Music distribution to traditional DSPs, like Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and more.
4) Content ID Monitoring on YouTube. When your music is uploaded without a license, ads run on the video and you keep 90% of that revenue.
5) We mint NFTs and list them for sale on OpenSea.
1) A licensing platform which allows our customers to license your music for use on film, tv, ads, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Twitch, and more.
2) Music distribution to blockchain related music platforms, such as Audius and Aurovine.
3) Music distribution to traditional DSPs, like Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and more.
4) Content ID Monitoring on YouTube. When your music is uploaded without a license, ads run on the video and you keep 90% of that revenue.
5) We mint NFTs and list them for sale on OpenSea.
I am a publisher or record label. Can you represent our catalog?
Yes, we work with independent publishers and labels of all sizes. Please sign up, or contact us to get started.
When will I get paid?
Revenue is collected and paid out monthly. Once your balance reaches $25, you can choose to be paid in USD, Euro, or cryptocurrency, whichever works best for you.
What genres are you accepting?
We accept all genres. Our focus is on original music. Bands, singer-songwriters, solo artists, and labels are all welcome.
Do you accept AI-generated music?
Yes. We accept music created with the assistance of AI tools, whether that's AI-generated instrumentation, vocals, or production. The music industry is evolving rapidly and we want to support artists who are exploring new creative tools. That said, you are still responsible for ensuring you have the rights to any elements used in your music, including any samples, stems, or assets generated by third-party AI platforms. As with all music on OnChain Music, you retain full ownership of what you upload.
I don't have a PRO (Performing Rights Organization). Will that be a problem?
No, you do not need to be affiliated with a PRO. (For those of you unfamiliar, examples of PROs are ASCAP, BMI, PRS, GEMA...)
Does OnChain Music promote my music?
Yes, we actively pitch catalog to music supervisors, share tracks on social media, and send placement briefs to our network. That said, artists who stay engaged with their own audience tend to see the best results.
I'm interested! How do I get started?
Sign up, then head to our Upload Music page.
You'll need: your audio files (320kbps MP3, or 24-bit/48kHz AIF or WAV preferred), cover artwork, and any metadata you have such as descriptions and keywords. Agreements are signed during the upload process based on the services you select.
You'll need: your audio files (320kbps MP3, or 24-bit/48kHz AIF or WAV preferred), cover artwork, and any metadata you have such as descriptions and keywords. Agreements are signed during the upload process based on the services you select.
How long does it take for my music to go live?
It depends on the platform. Your music appears on OnChain Music instantly. For blockchain platforms like Audius and DSPs like Spotify and Apple Music, allow 4-5 business days. We recommend uploading at least a week before any planned release date to give yourself a comfortable buffer.
How do I earn money?
There are three ways to earn on OnChain Music.
1) Sync licensing fees - when your music is placed in film, TV, or advertising, we split the upfront fee 50/50.
2) Streaming revenue - every stream or download earns mechanical royalties and you keep 90%.
3) YouTube Content ID — when your music is used in YouTube videos, ads run and you keep 90% of that revenue.
1) Sync licensing fees - when your music is placed in film, TV, or advertising, we split the upfront fee 50/50.
2) Streaming revenue - every stream or download earns mechanical royalties and you keep 90%.
3) YouTube Content ID — when your music is used in YouTube videos, ads run and you keep 90% of that revenue.
Will I be able to see my statements, or analytics?
We share all revenue data with you in full. You'll see exactly what we see. A self-serve dashboard for statements and analytics is on our roadmap.
Customer Questions
What's the difference between a subscription and a single use license?
Subscriptions cover internet, blockchain, metaverse, and podcast use. Our Business subscription also includes broadcast (TV, radio, etc.). Advertising, theatrical trailers, and film use require a single use license regardless of subscription tier.
Can I use the same song multiple times during my subscription?
Yes. As long as you are an active subscriber, you can use any song from our catalog in multiple videos throughout your subscription period.
Can I upload videos with your music after my subscription ends?
No. You must be an active subscriber at the time you publish your video. However, videos you published during your subscription period remain licensed and will not receive a copyright claim after your subscription ends.
What happens if I get a copyright claim on my YouTube channel?
This happens if you do not add your channel to the AllowList.
Steps to add URL to the AllowList:
Go to the License Management page. Search for your channel name, and select the channel you want. Click on "Clear Channel." That's it! Now you can upload any song from OnChain Music and will not get a copyright infringement.
Steps to add URL to the AllowList:
Go to the License Management page. Search for your channel name, and select the channel you want. Click on "Clear Channel." That's it! Now you can upload any song from OnChain Music and will not get a copyright infringement.
What is your cancellation policy?
Refunds are available within the first 14 days of your initial subscription if you have not downloaded or licensed any music. Annual plans are non-refundable on a prorated basis.
Will I get a copy of the license agreement when I use songs or get a single use license?
Our terms and conditions serve as the license agreement between both parties. By accessing our music, you agree to those terms. We recommend reviewing them before subscribing.
Can I use the stems and alt mixes to create an original piece of music?
No. The music on our site cannot be used as samples, loops, or stems for new music. This is a violation of our terms and conditions.
NFTs
What are NFTs?
NFTs are Non-Fungible Tokens. Essentially, they are digital collectible items that can be traded on the blockchain. Artists are using NFTs to sell unique songs, artwork, and even exclusive access to backstage.
Referral Program
What is the referral program?
Our referral program is currently being rebuilt and will be launching soon. Stay tuned and we'll send an email announcement to all members when it goes live.