SpinReports™ and Amazon Lead The Way
“How SpinReports is Leading the Way: Paying Artists for Digital Downloads on Amazon Music”
In an industry constantly evolving, independent artists are seeking every edge they can get—whether it’s securing radio spins, tracking streams, or ensuring that every download is accounted for. That’s why the announcement from SpinReports is so noteworthy: it claims to be the only royalty service out there that pays artists for digital downloads on Amazon Music.
Here’s a look at what it means, why it matters, and how artists should respond.
What’s the claim?
According to recent coverage, SpinReports “pays an additional royalty for digital downloads on Amazon and iTunes, setting it apart from many other royalty collection services.” (GRIND Magazine)
On the company’s FAQ page, SpinReports emphasizes that its membership allows artists to file reports and be paid once they cross the threshold (minimum payout at US $25) and based on verified data. (SpinReports)
In other words: beyond streaming royalties and radio spins, SpinReports gives artists a chance to capture earnings from digital download sales — a revenue stream that many services prioritize less or ignore entirely.
Why this matters for artists
Downloads still count
While streaming dominates the discussion, digital downloads (purchases of songs/albums) remain an important revenue path—especially for indie artists and fans who prefer ownership over access. (ANote Music) By being one of the few (or only) services paying for those downloads on a major platform like Amazon Music, SpinReports opens a door many artists hadn’t considered.Another income stream
Every revenue source matters. If you’re relying solely on streams, you might be leaving money on the table. Downloads typically pay better on a per-unit basis than a stream. Having a service that tracks and pays for them means improved income opportunities.Differentiation & credibility
When you can say you’re registered with a service that tracks downloads on Amazon—rather than only streams or radio—your operations look more professional. That kind of detail can matter to promoters, labels, managers, or sync licensors.Better data + verification
Paying for downloads means counting them. Verifying data matters. SpinReports requires members to submit reports for review, which helps ensure your usage is tracked. (SpinReports) Having a documented download track record can support your case when collecting royalties elsewhere, or when negotiating deals.Independent artist empowerment
For many indie artists, the major label ecosystem treats downloads and streaming differently—often focusing on high volumes. A service like SpinReports helps level the playing field by working for independents who release digital sales themselves, or through smaller partners.
What to check and do next
Confirm the download data: If you’re an artist who sells on Amazon Music (or via services that distribute there), check how your downloads are reported to you. Does your distributor or aggregator report them clearly?
Join SpinReports (or compare services): Review its membership agreement, what counts, how the payout threshold works, and whether your catalog is eligible.
Maintain clean metadata: Good titles, correct ISRC codes, accurate artist/publisher info—all help ensure your downloads and spins are traceable and paid.
Integrate with your other rights registration: Using a service like SpinReports doesn’t replace registering with your PRO (for performance royalties) or mechanical rights services—it complements them.
Track your download performance: Releases that get purchase activity show traction. Use that data in marketing, press kits, or when pitching to gatekeepers.
Some caveats
While SpinReports claims this download-payment advantage, always verify with your own distributor / aggregator that your Amazon download data is passing through and that you’re eligible.
The statement “only royalty company paying for downloads on Amazon Music” may be more marketing than full legal guarantee—be sure to review terms.
Downloads are declining industry-wide, as streaming takes over. (ANote Music) That means even with download-tracking, relying solely on that stream of income is risky.
Distribution and rights registration still matter—you still need your songs properly registered with your PRO, mechanical rights entity, etc.
If you’re an independent artist seeking every revenue avenue, the news that SpinReports pays for digital downloads on Amazon Music is a meaningful opportunity. It’s not just about streaming numbers—it’s about owning all your income sources, tracking them, and getting paid.
Downloads may not dominate the market anymore, but to the artist who sells each unit, every dollar counts. And having a service that supports that is a competitive advantage.
Put simply: if you’re selling your music online—and especially if you’re distributing to Amazon Music—make sure you’re registered with a service like SpinReports that tracks downloads. Because sales that you can count should be earnings you can claim.
