DistroKid adds ‘Direct’ Merch Sales

Indie D.I.Y. music distributor DistroKid has launched Direct – a new platform that brings direct-to-fan commerce to smaller independent artists. Designed to go beyond traditional distribution, Direct enables artists to create and run on-demand merch stores.

DistroKid adds ‘Direct’ Merch Sales

DistroKid Direct makes it simple for artists to turn album or single artwork into custom t-shirts, tote bags, and mugs. All are produced and shipped on demand to fans worldwide. There’s no upfront cost, no inventory management, and no third-party integrations.

Artists set their own prices and keep 100% of earnings. Currently available in beta to select artists, Direct will be rolling out more widely over the next few weeks.

Built for For Musicians

“Direct is one more way DistroKid helps artists at every step — before, during, and after they release music,” said Matthew Ogle, Chief Product Officer at DistroKid. “We’re building simple tools that let artists share what they create, from music to merch and beyond. They can connect directly with the people who care about them most.”

Independent musicians have already started to see the benefits. Jazz artist Devin Gray shared how the platform “takes the stress out of designing, setting up, and shipping merch, so I can focus on creating music.” Singer-songwriter Raye Zaragoza praised the flexibility and sustainability of the service. She noted that “you are only printing what is ordered,” while Jeddy Knox said the experience was “fast and painless.” This allowed him to launch a merch store in minutes.

Built on Bandzoogle Technology & More Coming

For $6 per month, artists access an integrated, automated merch store where they control their brand and profits.

Direct runs on infrastructure from Bandzoogle, the website builder and direct-to-fan platform that DistroKid acquired in 2023. The plan is to leverage this tech to expand Direct in the coming months. Planned are more merch options and new ways for artists to engage directly with fans.

To learn more about DistroKid direct or join the beta, visit distrokid.com/direct.

Bruce Houghton is Founder & Editor of Hypebot, Senior Advisor at Bandsintown, a Berklee College Of Music professor and founder of Skyline Artists.