What is Stem?

Stem is a distribution platform and payments solution geared towards independent musicians and teams with vision. We were founded in 2015 to simplify the business of splits among collaborators, and to give artists insight into their data to help them scale. Each Stem Direct client is able to customize their dashboard, and is assigned a dedicated rep to help with releasing, pitching strategy, and to connect you to a larger creative community. Stem pays out Stem Direct users on the 15th of each month. To learn more about how Stem works, head here. 

Why Stem?

Stem believes in clarity, and is here to help simplify the business of releasing music. Stem’s platform helps empower independent musicians and their teams, and allows them to focus on growing their business by removing the friction of paying collaborators. Stem also gives users insights into a unique data dashboard that can help focus campaigns, tours, and releases. Every step of the way, Stem provides experienced and dedicated support with real account managers who can help you navigate all your questions. 

Who uses Stem? How do I know if Stem is right for me? 

Stem has been used by independent artists and labels since 2015. We work with artists and teams of different sizes and across all genres, who are looking to expand their business and who want to grow their business as an independent musician. Stem is right for artists and teams with traction, vision, and passion. 

What platforms does Stem distribute to/integrate with? 

Stem integrates with the following platforms: Apple Music, iTunes, Spotify, YouTube Content ID, YouTube Art Tracks, Amazon, Pandora, Tidal, Google Play, Deezer, Napster, Tencent, iHeart, Shazam, Instagram & Facebook, TikTok, and Saavn. Stem also distributes to Beatport, Claro, Touchtunes and more through our Stem Extended Network.

How do I become a Stem client?

Stem accepts new clients on a rolling basis. To apply to be a Stem Direct member, use this link. Check out this blog post to see what Stem looks for. 

What is Scale? 

Scale is Stem’s advance offering. We wanted to create an honest, fair, and clear alternative to traditional deals in the music industry. Scale advances allow independent artists to get up to a year of their income upfront, to help fund their business and grow their career. Scale allows for to set their own terms, take back creative control, and maintain ownership of their masters. To learn more about Scale or apply, check out our advance calculator. 

Does Stem distribute to Youtube? 

Yes! Stem distributes to both Youtube ArtTracks and is integrated with the Youtube Content ID product. Stem clients are able to collect royalties from Youtube. 

Does Stem distribute podcasts or audio books? 

Stem does not currently distribute Podcasts or Audio Books to the DSP’s due to the different monetization vehicles that are used for these formats (ads, publishing, partnerships, etc.)

I applied but didn’t get accepted, why was that? 

It’s our mission to provide independent artists & labels with tools to build their businesses. While we grow, we want to make sure that we are able to provide artists the best service we can. In order to provide ample support to our users during this process, we have made the tough choice to limit the number of users we onboard onto our platform. 

Below are a few reasons why we often deny applications: 

• Lack of bandwidth on our end to take on new clients
• The relevant application fields were not completed
• Stem does not currently offer a particular service that you need out of a distribution partner 
• Stem is not the right distribution fit for your genre

Can I apply again if my application was rejected?

We revisit applications every six months, and always encourage previous applicants to re-apply again in the future. 

I got an invite to be a shareholder, how do I activate my account? 

If you are a shareholder invited to Stem and looking to activate your account, please use the invite code GETPAID to do so here. 

To learn more about our partnership with TuneCore, visit this blog post.