Question 1

What's the difference between distribution and publishing?

Accepted Answer

Distribution gets your recorded music onto streaming platforms — it deals with your master recording. Publishing protects the song itself — the melody, chords and lyrics — and collects royalties when your music is played publicly on radio, TV or in films. You need both, but they're separate services.

Question 2

Do I keep my music rights?

Accepted Answer

Yes — always. You keep 100% of your master rights regardless of which deal you choose. The royalty splits apply only to streaming royalties. Your music is yours.

Question 3

How do the royalty splits work exactly?

Accepted Answer

Streaming platforms pay royalties to distributors. Kontor New Media, our distribution infrastructure partner, retains 20% as their fee. The remaining 80% is split between you and Kiss The Lake according to your deal. Example: EUR 100 earned goes EUR 20 to Kontor, then EUR 56 to you and EUR 24 to us on Deal 2 — Indie.

Question 4

Can I cancel my deal?

Accepted Answer

Our deals have a minimum term of 12 months. After that, cancel anytime. If you want to move to another distributor rather than take down your release completely, contact us and we'll coordinate a proper transfer together.

Question 5

How do I get paid?

Accepted Answer

We issue royalty statements within 45 days after each calendar quarter. Payment is triggered if your balance within that quarter reaches EUR 100, via bank transfer to your IBAN.

Question 6

What happens after I submit a demo?

Accepted Answer

We listen to every submission and respond within 14 business days. We focus on technical and sonic quality and give specific feedback. If needed, we recommend engineers or producers who can help.

Question 7

What is Kontor New Media?

Accepted Answer

Kontor New Media is one of Europe's leading digital music distribution networks, based in Hamburg. They handle delivery to 150+ platforms and collect royalties. Kiss The Lake uses their infrastructure. Their 20% fee is deducted at source before splits.

Question 8

Is this only for Swiss artists?

Accepted Answer

Not at all. We work with independent artists worldwide. Being Swiss means we operate under Swiss law, are IFPI members, and have strong SUISA connections — but artists from any country are welcome.

Question 9

What does "curated artists only" mean?

Accepted Answer

We review every release before it goes live — not to judge your artistic vision, but to ensure your music meets technical and sonic platform standards. If something isn't ready, we tell you specifically what to improve and point you toward people who can help.

Question 10

Why should I work with Kiss The Lake?

Accepted Answer

We're transparent about how money flows — including Kontor New Media's 20% deduction. Every artist gets a real person to talk to. We're connected via IFPI membership and Kontor infrastructure. And our in-house publishing partner Berger Publishing is right here.

Question 11

How do I sign with Berger Publishing?

Accepted Answer

Berger Publishing GmbH is our in-house publishing partner. Reach out directly at info@berger-publishing.com. If they hear a release they're excited about through our roster, they may also reach out to you. SVMV member.

Question 12

How do billing and royalty statements work?

Accepted Answer

Statements are issued quarterly — within 45 days after each quarter end. You'll receive a detailed PDF showing gross royalties, Kontor's 20% deduction, your share, and payout status. Payment triggers when your quarterly balance reaches EUR 100.

Question 13

What audio and artwork formats do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Audio: WAV only, 44.1kHz, 24-bit, max 500MB per file, up to 3 versions per release. Artwork: JPG only, minimum 3000x3000 pixels, RGB, max 50MB. No text overlays or social handles on artwork.

Question 14

How long until my music is live?

Accepted Answer

Once approved, your release goes live within 24 to 72 hours on most platforms. We recommend submitting at least 14 days before your intended release date to allow time for playlist pitching.

Question 15

What platforms do you distribute to?

Accepted Answer

150+ platforms worldwide including Spotify, Apple Music, Beatport, TikTok, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, TIDAL, Deezer and Traxsource. Your release goes live globally unless you request territory restrictions.

Independent Groove