Hankad is a premier free music distribution and publishing platform, founded in Nairobi, Kenya, and registered in both Kenya and the United States. Operating globally through hankad.io, we help independent artists and labels distribute, publish, promote, and monetize their music—at no upfront cost. With Hankad, your music is delivered to major streaming platforms worldwide, ensuring maximum reach and revenue potential. Whether you’re an emerging artist or an established label, our free music distribution services make global music distribution accessible and hassle-free.

Hankad offers two free-for-life plans with a 20% commission on royalties, so you can start sharing your music worldwide without any upfront costs. Both plans include unlimited uploads, YouTube Content ID, distribution to TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and 200+ platforms, and monthly payouts via Payoneer.

• Artist Plan: Perfect for solo artists or bands. Keep 80% royalties and distribute unlimited music for free.

• Label Plan: Designed for labels or managers with multiple artists. Keep 80% royalties and distribute unlimited music for free.

We distribute to hundreds of different outlets and digital service providers. To check out our list of current partners, click here. We are always adding new distribution partners to our network.

After submission, your release undergoes a 2-day Content Review. Approved releases are sent to stores. Each store activates releases at its pace. You have 6 priority fast lane releases per month, delivered within 1-7 Days. Other releases take 3-4 weeks. Track release status on your dashboard. Use the 3-4 week period for marketing planning. Take advantage of pre-orders for anticipation.

To create a new release on Hankad:

1. Log In: Sign in to your Hankad account.
2. Go to Dashboard: Navigate to your dashboard and select “Create New Release.”
3. Enter Release Details: Fill in the required information, such as release title, artist name, genre, and release date.
4. Upload Your Tracks: Add your audio files. Make sure each track has the correct format, title, and other relevant details.
5. Add Artwork: Upload your cover art. Ensure it meets the required specifications.
6. Select Stores: Choose the digital platforms where you want your music to be available.
7. Review & Submit: Double-check all the information, then submit your release for distribution.

To learn exactly how it’s done, watch the video tutorial here.

To transfer your music to Hankad without losing streams or playlists:

1. Notify Us: Email us at hello@hankad.io before uploading your music to let us know you’re switching from another distributor.
2. Sign Up: Create your free account on hankad.io.
3. Upload Your Music: Use the same ISRC, UPC codes, and details (artist name, track titles, artwork, etc.) from your previous distributor to keep everything consistent.
4. Use the Same Files: Upload the exact audio files you used before.
5. Wait Before Removal: Allow two weeks after uploading to Hankad before asking your old distributor to remove your songs.

We’ll do our best to keep your streams and playlists intact. If you have any questions, reach out to us at hello@hankad.io.

We do charge a small fee for ISRC and UPC codes—0.75 Euro per ISRC and 1 Euro per UPC. However, you have the option to use your own codes if you prefer. No need to worry about upfront costs; these fees will be deducted from your sales.

We pay monthly after our accounting process. If your music is streamed or downloaded, you’ll receive your royalties statement on the 1st of each month. Please note that some stores may take up to 3 months to report, which could cause a delay in your first payment. You can track your sales and earnings in real-time by logging into your dashboard.

• Payment Threshold: 50 euros.

• Payout Platform: We use Payoneer as our primary payment platform for fast and secure payouts.

You can use your music streaming data to ask for upfront payments. If your music consistently earns money each month, you can request more than your usual monthly income. You pay back this advance using the money you make each month, making it a smart way to fund your creative projects. Learn more about Royalty Advances below.