{"id":3638,"date":"2026-08-30T19:21:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-30T19:21:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/routenote.com\/radar\/?p=3638"},"modified":"2026-08-30T16:24:28","modified_gmt":"2026-08-30T16:24:28","slug":"free-music-distribution-for-japanese-artists-and-record-labels","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/routenote.com\/radar\/free-music-distribution-for-japanese-artists-and-record-labels\/","title":{"rendered":"Free Music Distribution for Japanese Artists and Record Labels"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japanese artists and independent record labels no longer need a large budget or a major-label deal to release music around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With RouteNote, artists and labels in Japan can distribute music to major streaming platforms and music services with no upfront distribution fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That includes global platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and Amazon Music, as well as services with a significant presence in Japan including LINE MUSIC and AWA. RouteNote currently lists both LINE MUSIC and AWA among its distribution partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re an independent Japanese artist releasing your first single or a record label managing hundreds of artists, RouteNote provides a way to distribute music globally without paying upfront.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free music distribution for Japanese artists<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote Free allows artists to distribute music without paying an upfront distribution fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Upload your music<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add your artwork and metadata<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Select the stores you want to distribute to<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Choose your release territories<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Submit the release for moderation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Distribute your music around the world<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With RouteNote Free, artists keep 85% of the net revenue generated by their music, while RouteNote retains 15%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are no upfront costs for using the Free distribution model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can be particularly useful for new Japanese artists who want to start releasing music without committing to annual distribution fees before they know how much their music will earn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free music distribution for Japanese record labels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote isn&#8217;t only designed for individual artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Independent Japanese record labels can also use RouteNote to distribute music from multiple artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote&#8217;s Free distribution model allows labels to upload music from an unlimited number of artists without paying an additional distribution fee every time they add another artist to their account.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That makes RouteNote particularly useful for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Independent record labels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Electronic music labels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>J-pop labels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Rock and alternative labels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Hip-hop labels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vocaloid producers and labels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anime and game music labels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Producer collectives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Management companies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Music production companies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Artists running their own label<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of paying for a separate subscription for every artist on your roster, labels can manage multiple artists and releases through RouteNote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For growing independent labels, this can significantly reduce the cost of operating a catalogue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Distribute Japanese music to Spotify for free<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spotify is one of the world&#8217;s largest music streaming platforms and has become an increasingly important way for Japanese artists to reach listeners both inside Japan and overseas.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote allows Japanese artists and labels to send eligible releases to Spotify using RouteNote Free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Upload your track once through RouteNote and select Spotify alongside the other music services you want your release delivered to.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means a Japanese artist can potentially reach listeners across North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America and many other markets without needing separate distribution agreements in every country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get your music on Apple Music<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japanese artists can also use RouteNote to distribute releases to Apple Music and iTunes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Apple Music has a strong presence in Japan and internationally, making it an important platform for artists looking to build both domestic and global audiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Rather than negotiating directly with Apple, independent artists can use a digital music distributor such as RouteNote to deliver their music and release metadata.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Distribute music to LINE MUSIC<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">LINE MUSIC is particularly important for artists targeting listeners in Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The service is closely integrated with LINE, one of Japan&#8217;s most widely used communication platforms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote distributes music to LINE MUSIC through its distribution network, meaning eligible RouteNote artists and labels can make their releases available on the service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Japanese artists, this provides an important advantage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don&#8217;t have to choose between reaching international audiences through Spotify and Apple Music or reaching Japanese listeners through domestic music services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can distribute to both.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get your music on AWA<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote also distributes music to AWA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AWA is a Japanese music streaming platform launched in 2015 and remains part of RouteNote&#8217;s current partner-store network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For artists focused on the Japanese market, combining global platforms with services such as AWA and LINE MUSIC can help maximise potential reach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A release might therefore be available to listeners through:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spotify<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Apple Music<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Amazon Music<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">YouTube Music<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">LINE MUSIC<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AWA<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and many other music services around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote maintains distribution relationships with a wide range of streaming platforms, download stores, social platforms and regional music services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reach listeners outside Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the biggest opportunities for Japanese artists is that music is increasingly global.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Listeners no longer discover Japanese music only through Japanese record labels, physical imports or specialist music stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japanese artists can now build audiences almost anywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Genres and scenes including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>J-pop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Japanese hip-hop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>City pop<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Vocaloid<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Anime music<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Japanese rock<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lo-fi<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Electronic music<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Game music<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Jazz<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Classical music<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">can attract listeners far outside Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Streaming platforms, YouTube, TikTok and social media have made it much easier for music to cross borders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Digital distribution allows independent Japanese artists to make their catalogue available to those listeners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">You don&#8217;t need a record label to distribute music<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don&#8217;t need to be signed to a traditional record label to release your music through RouteNote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Independent artists can distribute their own music directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you don&#8217;t have a label, RouteNote allows you to use your artist name in the label field when creating your release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means producers and artists can effectively operate independently while still making their music available through major streaming services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to distribute your music for free with RouteNote<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Getting started is straightforward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Create a RouteNote account<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Create a free RouteNote account and open the music distribution section.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Create your release<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Enter your release information, including the release title and artist details.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you don&#8217;t already have a UPC for your release, RouteNote can generate one for you for free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Upload your music<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Upload your finished audio files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You&#8217;ll then enter information about each track, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Track title<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Artist name<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Featured artists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Songwriters<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Language<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Genre<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>ISRC information<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you already have an ISRC, you can enter it during the upload process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Upload your artwork<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Add the artwork for your single, EP or album.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Make sure your artwork meets the requirements of RouteNote and its partner stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Choose your stores<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Select the music services where you want your release to appear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can distribute your music globally or choose specific territories.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japanese artists may want to include major international services alongside platforms popular in Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Choose Free Distribution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Select RouteNote Free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There is no upfront distribution cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With Free distribution, you keep 85% of the net revenue generated by your release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Submit your release<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your release is reviewed by RouteNote&#8217;s moderation team before being delivered to your selected music services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After approval, RouteNote sends the release to the selected stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Distribute unlimited artists with RouteNote<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For record labels, one of the biggest advantages of RouteNote Free is the ability to manage large catalogues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Traditional music distributors may charge based on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Number of artists<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Number of releases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Number of tracks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Annual subscriptions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Additional label accounts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those costs can become significant for a record label releasing music regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote Free takes a different approach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Labels can distribute releases from multiple artists without needing to pay upfront for every new artist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This means a Japanese label can begin with five artists and grow to dozens or potentially hundreds without its basic distribution costs increasing every time a new artist joins the roster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Split music royalties between artists<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japanese labels and collaborative artists can also use RouteNote&#8217;s royalty-sharing tools.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Revenue can be divided automatically between multiple RouteNote accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, a release could involve:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>An artist<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Featured artist<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Record label<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and revenue can be allocated between the relevant parties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For releases using RouteNote Free, the royalty split is calculated after RouteNote&#8217;s 15% distribution share.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This can remove a significant amount of administration for labels managing collaborative releases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free distribution vs paid music distribution<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not every artist will always want to use free distribution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote gives artists a choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote Free:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No upfront distribution cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You keep 85% of net streaming and download revenue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote Premium:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Pay for distribution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep 100% of streaming and download revenue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote also allows releases to move between Free and Premium, giving artists flexibility as their catalogue grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This creates a useful model for developing artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You could release new music through Free distribution while you build an audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a particular release becomes successful and starts generating significant revenue, you can consider moving that release to Premium.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why free music distribution can work well for Japanese labels<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Launching and growing an independent record label involves plenty of costs already.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Recording.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mixing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Mastering.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Artwork.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Music videos.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Marketing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Promotion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Artist development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Social media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Live shows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Requiring labels to also pay distribution fees for every artist and every release can create another barrier to growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Free distribution changes the economics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of paying upfront simply to make music available, labels can invest more of their budget into finding artists, developing releases and marketing their catalogue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The distributor then participates in the success of the music through revenue share.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For emerging labels, that can be a much more scalable model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Build a global Japanese record label<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Japanese record label no longer has to think only about the Japanese market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Digital distribution means a label based in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka, Sapporo or anywhere else in Japan can operate globally from the beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An independent label could discover Japanese artists locally while distributing their music to listeners around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At the same time, platforms such as LINE MUSIC and AWA allow the label to continue targeting listeners inside Japan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The result is a genuinely global distribution strategy:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japan + the rest of the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Japanese music is increasingly global<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japanese music culture has always had a strong identity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But the internet has made the borders around music markets much weaker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Anime, gaming, TikTok, YouTube, streaming playlists and online communities have introduced millions of listeners around the world to Japanese artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A listener doesn&#8217;t necessarily need to understand every lyric to connect with a song.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That creates a huge opportunity for independent Japanese musicians.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The next globally successful Japanese artist doesn&#8217;t necessarily need to begin with a major international record deal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They can begin by simply making their music available everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Start distributing your music for free<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re a Japanese artist or independent record label looking for music distribution, you don&#8217;t need to pay upfront simply to get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote Free allows you to distribute eligible music to major streaming services around the world while keeping 85% of net revenues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are no upfront distribution fees with the Free plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Japanese artists can reach audiences through major international platforms while also distributing to services including LINE MUSIC and AWA.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Upload your music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choose your stores.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Release worldwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">And start building your audience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free Music Distribution for Japanese Artists: FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can Japanese artists distribute music for free?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Japanese artists can use RouteNote Free to distribute eligible music without paying upfront distribution fees. Artists keep 85% of net revenue generated through the Free model.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can Japanese record labels use RouteNote?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. RouteNote supports artists and record labels, including accounts managing releases from multiple artists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I distribute Japanese music to Spotify for free?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Eligible RouteNote Free releases can be distributed to Spotify without an upfront distribution fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I put my music on LINE MUSIC?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. LINE MUSIC is currently part of RouteNote&#8217;s distribution network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I distribute music to AWA?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. AWA is currently listed among RouteNote&#8217;s music distribution partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Does RouteNote charge an annual fee for Free distribution?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">RouteNote&#8217;s Free distribution model does not charge an upfront or annual distribution fee. RouteNote instead retains 15% of net revenues generated by Free releases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can record labels distribute multiple artists?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. RouteNote Free allows labels to distribute releases from multiple artists without paying an additional upfront distribution fee for every artist.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I distribute music outside Japan?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. RouteNote distributes music to streaming services and stores around the world, allowing Japanese artists to reach both domestic and international listeners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do I need a record label?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. Independent artists can distribute music through RouteNote without being signed to a record label.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Japanese artists and independent record labels no longer need a large budget or a major-label deal to release music around the world. With RouteNote, artists and labels in Japan can distribute music to major streaming platforms and music services with no upfront distribution fee. That includes global platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and Amazon Music, as well as services with a significant presence in Japan including LINE MUSIC and AWA. RouteNote currently lists both LINE MUSIC and AWA among its distribution partners. Whether you&#8217;re an independent Japanese artist releasing your first single or a record label managing&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3639,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[343,2227,31,1650,355],"coauthors":[2],"class_list":["post-3638","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-news","tag-japan","tag-japanese","tag-music-distribution","tag-musicians","tag-record-label"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Free Music Distribution for Japanese Artists and Record Labels - RouteNote - Radar<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/routenote.com\/radar\/free-music-distribution-for-japanese-artists-and-record-labels\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Free Music Distribution for Japanese Artists and Record Labels - RouteNote - Radar\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Japanese artists and independent record labels no longer need a large budget or a major-label deal to release music around the world. With RouteNote, artists and labels in Japan can distribute music to major streaming platforms and music services with no upfront distribution fee. That includes global platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music and Amazon Music, as well as services with a significant presence in Japan including LINE MUSIC and AWA. RouteNote currently lists both LINE MUSIC and AWA among its distribution partners. 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