Why Does This Question Matter?
Many musicians start out on a paid plan with a digital distributor, then decide to downgrade or cancel their subscription to save money. What most people don't realize is that this decision can have direct consequences for their released music and accumulated earnings. This article explains what can happen and helps you make an informed choice.
Common Scenarios When Switching to a Free Plan
Pricing models vary across distributors, but there are recurring patterns documented in the general terms of service of these platforms:
- Music removal or freezing: Some distributors keep your music on streaming platforms only while your subscription is active. The moment you downgrade or cancel, your tracks may be automatically pulled from Spotify, Apple Music, and other platforms.
- Frozen earnings payouts: Some distributors require an active paid subscription to continue releasing your royalties. If you switch to a free plan, payments may stop until you upgrade again.
- Raised withdrawal minimums: Some platforms increase the minimum withdrawal threshold on free plans, meaning smaller earnings could remain locked for a longer period.
- Additional per-release fees: Free plans may apply separate charges to each released track, cutting into your net earnings.
Where to Find This Information Officially
Before making any decision, open the Terms and Conditions or FAQ page on your current distributor's website and search for terms like downgrade, cancellation policy, or royalty payout on free plan. These details should be clearly published. If you can't find them, contact the support team in writing and keep a copy of their response.
Practical Steps Before You Click "Downgrade"
- Withdraw your earnings first: Make sure you cash out every available balance before making any changes to your plan, especially if the minimum withdrawal threshold is lower on your current tier.
- Take screenshots: Record your stream counts, earnings figures, and distribution links before switching. This data belongs to you and you may need it later.
- Check your music's status on streaming platforms: Two weeks after downgrading, search for your tracks on Spotify and Apple Music to confirm they're still live.
- Read the refund policy: Some distributors won't refund prepaid subscription fees even if you downgrade mid-billing cycle.
- Don't delete your account before transferring your music: If you plan to move to another distributor, release your music with the new distributor first before canceling your old account to avoid any gap in distribution.
How Mazufa Works Differently
At Mazufa, there are no paid or free tiers that affect the continuity of your distribution or the release of your earnings. There are no annual subscription fees forcing you to choose between keeping your music live and saving money. Your tracks stay distributed and your royalties get paid regardless of any "plan," because the model is built from the ground up without these restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Switching from a paid plan to a free one is far from a simple decision at many distributors, and it can genuinely mean your music stops being distributed or your earnings are delayed. Before taking any step, read the terms carefully, withdraw your available balance, and document everything. And if you're looking for an alternative that frees you from these calculations entirely, models built without subscription tiers are well worth considering.