Independent artists rely on platforms like TuneCore to distribute their music, collect royalties, and manage their careers. The promise is simple: you create, they handle the business side, and you get paid. But recent experiences have shown that the reality isn’t always that straightforward.

The Problem: Unauthorized Charges

Imagine logging into your bank account and seeing a $7.21 charge from a service you didn’t authorize. That’s exactly what happened to some TuneCore users recently. Even when the funds weren’t available to process the charge, the platform still attempted it, leaving artists confused and frustrated.

The bigger issue? TuneCore is quick to police artists for “artificial streaming,” flagging their streams or even taking music down for violating platform rules. But when the same scrutiny should apply to their own billing practices, there’s little transparency.

Double Standards in the Music Industry

This isn’t just about a small charge—it’s about the imbalance of power between indie artists and the platforms they rely on. Artists are held to strict standards, expected to account for every play, every download, and every share. Meanwhile, the platforms that collect fees, distribute revenue, and control access to audiences are rarely held to the same standard.

For independent musicians, even a small, unexplained charge can erode trust. If you can’t trust your distributor to manage your money fairly, how can you trust them with your career?

Why This Matters

  • Fair Pay: Indie artists deserve to know exactly what they’re being charged for. Every dollar counts when you’re hustling to build a career.
  • Transparency: Platforms should be as accountable as the artists they serve. If you flag artificial streams, you should also explain every charge.
  • Artist Rights: Independent musicians shouldn’t be left guessing. Clear communication and fair business practices are non-negotiable.

The Takeaway

TuneCore, and platforms like it, need to practice what they preach. Flagging artificial streaming is fine—but unauthorized charges without explanation undermine the very artists you claim to support. Indie creators are not just numbers or streams; they are the backbone of modern music. Platforms must respect that.

If you’re an artist, keep an eye on your statements. If something doesn’t add up, ask questions. Transparency is your right, and accountability is theirs.