Music distribution platform

SpareMusic device screenshotSpareMusic device screenshot

my role

lead product designer

project timeline

built and scaled over 2 years

team & stakeholders

product: 1 | engineering: 1

about this project

I designed multiple flows and core experiences across the Spare Music platform, focusing on the artist and label dashboards. This included features for releasing new music, tracking analytics, managing payments and royalty splits, editing profiles, and more.

This case study covers how we streamlined the release process for artists and labels, making it easier to distribute music across dozens of streaming platforms and social media apps through a seamless, intuitive interface.

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The problem

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problem 1

Fragmented and confusing

Artists and labels had to juggle multiple platforms just to release a single track. Between distribution, royalties, and performance data, the experience was disjointed, time-consuming, and hard to manage.

We brought everything into one intuitive dashboard. Users can upload tracks, manage splits, schedule releases, and track performance, all in one place. No switching between tools or chasing down missing data. Just a streamlined experience built for clarity and speed.

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problem 2

No visibility into royalties

Artists had little insight into how much they were earning, when they’d get paid, or how splits were calculated. Labels struggled to manage payouts across multiple contributors, often relying on spreadsheets or outdated systems.

We built a transparent royalties system. Earnings are broken down by track, artist, and platform, with real-time visibility into balances and payout timelines. Automatic split payments ensure everyone gets paid accurately and on time, without the guesswork.

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problem 3

lack of performance insights

Once a release went live, artists had no real-time insight into how it was performing. Streams, engagement, and trends were scattered across platforms, making it hard to measure impact or plan next steps.

We designed a real-time analytics hub. Users can see how each release is performing across platforms, track growth over time, and understand what’s working. This empowers artists and labels to make smarter, faster decisions without the guesswork.

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problem 4

labels lacked a unified view

Labels were managing dozens of artists using outdated tools and disconnected systems. There was no centralized place to oversee releases, royalties, and performance data across their entire roster. We created a command center for labels.

Labels can now manage all of their artists in one place, view upcoming releases, automate and monitor royalty payments, and analyze performance at both the artist and catalog level. Everything is connected, organized, and easy to control.

"how do we simplify music distribution and turn scattered tools into one powerful platform?”

Business goals

Build and scale a freemium model that can be monetized from free users and paying users. Free users split royalties 50/50 with us.

Create long-term revenue through royalty share, subscriptions, and upsells while keeping acquisition costs low.

Position the brand as the go-to platform for independent music distribution without relying on major label partnerships.

User goals

Give artists and labels the tools to collaborate smoothly with clear roles, shared access, and real-time visibility into every release.

Offer a platform that helps labels grow their artist roster, understand where their audience is listening, and scale smarter.

Remove the barrier to entry for artists by giving them a way to distribute their music for free and stay independent. Provide artists a way to manage royalty splits and payments.

let's make things happen

Reach out if you're looking for a product designer who can help you ship & scale user-friendly products.

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artist & label feedback

We interviewed and worked with artists and labels we knew in the industry to co-create the platform. By testing features early, sharing prototypes, and gathering ongoing feedback, we made sure the tools fit real workflows, solved actual problems, and delivered value from day one.

results