How Do I Switch Distributors Without Losing Streams?
You switch distributors by re-releasing your releases with your new distributor using the exact same ISRCs, UPCs, and metadata, and only then requesting the takedown from your old distributor. Since platforms recognize recordings by their codes, stream counts and playlist placements have the best chance to survive. This isn't guaranteed: Spotify sometimes assigns new track IDs, so old numbers may be missing. The switch is predictable — errors almost always happen at three points: new codes, mismatched metadata, or the wrong order.
Can you switch distributors without losing streams?
Yes. Spotify, Apple Music and most other stores identify a recording by its ISRC and a release by its UPC. When the same recording arrives with the same ISRC through a new distributor, the platforms match it to the existing one. Play counts, saves and playlist adds hang on that match. If you let new ISRCs be assigned instead, every track starts from zero — even if the audio is identical.
Step 1: Back up your codes and metadata
Export the UPC for every release and the ISRC for every track from your old distributor’s dashboard. Also note the original release date, the exact titles and version details, the artist names as previously spelled, the P and C lines and the cover art in its original resolution. The more closely the new delivery matches the old one, the smoother the merge.
Step 2: Redeliver through your new distributor
Create each release with your new distributor as an existing release and enter the existing codes instead of having new ones assigned. Set the original release date so the release isn’t treated as a new one. Make sure artist names are identical so the release lands on the same artist profile. With OGRECORDS™, you choose to transfer an existing release in music distribution and carry over the ISRC and UPC unchanged.
Step 3: Go live first, then take down
The order determines whether there are gaps. Wait until the release is live through your new distributor in the key stores, and only then request the takedown from your old provider. That way, your catalog is never offline. A short period in which both deliveries exist side by side is normal; the platforms merge them via the identical codes. Afterward, check in Spotify for Artists and Apple Music for Artists that counts and playlists have carried over.
What to check before you switch
Read your contract with the old distributor: are there minimum terms, notice periods, takedown fees or clauses that lock releases in for a certain time? Have any outstanding payouts settled before the account is closed. And sort out ongoing royalty splits and pre-save campaigns in advance so contributors are still paid correctly after the switch.
What doesn’t come with you
The codes help carry over your stream history. But some things never transfer automatically: active Smartlinks and Pre-Save campaigns from your old provider, splits stored there, and payout history. Set up Smartlinks again with your new distributor and update them in your bio and Linktree. Export your statements before closing your old account — you’ll need them for taxes and to track which periods are still open.
Frequently asked questions
Will I lose my Spotify streams if I switch distributors?
This can't be ruled out. With the same ISRCs and identical metadata, platforms may recognize the recording. But Spotify sometimes assigns new track IDs, so old numbers may be missing, and both entries won’t be automatically merged.
Do I have to keep the UPC?
If possible, yes. Using the same UPC keeps the release the same product for stores. But the ISRC is the more important code: it’s how platforms recognize each individual track.
How long does switching distributors take?
Re-release takes a few days depending on the store. Check your numbers afterward and avoid scheduling the switch right before a major release.
Will my artist profile stay the same after the switch?
Yes, if the artist name is spelled identically and the release is matched to the existing profile. When redelivering, provide your existing profile links wherever possible.
Can I move only part of my catalog?
Yes. You can move releases one by one and leave others with your old distributor for now. Just make sure each release is permanently delivered through exactly one distributor at any time.
Get your next release right.
The release wizard handles ISRCs, UPCs, credits and metadata for you — delivered to Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok and every other store.