FAQ
The Basics
Where is EAR located?
Due to the pandemic, we have reorganized our place of work on the web, however, some of our managers are located in New Jersey, Illinois, Tennessee, and California.
How do I get in touch?
You can contact us here.
How do I get signed?
We offer two ways of working with artists at this time, under development or management. You can learn more about these options here. After that, you can reach out to us by submitting your music, links, and telling us a little bit about yourself by contacting us here.
How is a manager assigned to me?
After we receive your email, we will designate a manager that is closest to your current location. At this time, we have four hubs to take care of artists based on regions: East Coast, West Coast, Mid-West, and Gulf Coast.
How can I submit my music?
You can submit your music in three places: Playlist Submissions, Music Submissions, Emailing Us.
Are physical submissions allowed?
At this time we do not feel that physical submissions are necessary. If you are unable to submit your music to us for this reason, please contact us.
I haven't heard back yet! Should I follow up?
We receive a lot of submissions and emails every day, so it is possible we haven’t gotten to your request yet. If it is urgent, please send us another email marked “Urgent”. Our email is contact@eltonaudio.com.
What is Artist Hub?
Artist Hub is our way to keeping our artists in the loop, and keeping them on track with their careers. On a secured server, artists can access workshops, downloadable content, help links, tutorials, discounted services, upload access to EAR Cloud, and much more.
What services will I have access to as an artist?
All of our services are available to artists signed to EAR, with some exceptions for unsigned artists. Artists that have access to Artist Hub can enjoy up to 80% off our services, and an assigned agent to help them with their needs.
Can I bring my own team once signed to EAR?
Yes! We actually recommend it. However, some artists do not have access to a reliable team, which is why we offer that for almost everything an artist would need at an affordable price.
How long does a contract last with EAR?
Usually contracts last between 6 months to 2 years, however, extensions are available.
Are there certain benchmarks I need to meet to become a part of the management/development program?
Yes, you can review those terms here.
I don't meet the requirements for artist management, can I still pitch my music?
While we would prefer to work with artists that hit our minimum requirements, we can review your submission. In some cases this works better for some artists that have a large inventory of unreleased music. (SoundCloud releases are considered unreleased).
Will I still retain control of my social media accounts if signed?
Yes! We most likely will need access to your social media accounts at some point to review analytics, run ad campaigns, or do some social media planning, but will never restrict your access. It is your account after all.
Are there perks of being signed with EAR?
There’s a few. We are an independent label that prefers artistic freedom over complete control, which means you maintain ownership of your works, and final decisions. Managers can only advise you, and cannot act on your behalf unless explicitly given permission to do so. Additionally, we are still growing, which means the opportunity to rise with us is inevitable. We also aren’t run by robots, just to name a few.
What are the benefits of Artist Hub?
There is no other record label on the planet that has an online portal like Artist Hub. Having access to it gives artists a way to educate themselves, and have access to tools that aren’t easily accessible online. Plus, it’s free for any EAR Artist.
Do I have to be signed to EAR to have access to Artist Hub?
Ideally it would make sense to be signed to take advantage of Artist Hub for free, but since its release, we decided to create a paid version that any artist can access without a contract. You can learn more about that here.
I want to become a pop star. How do I make that happen?
The most massive stars can burn out and explode in a supernova after only a few million years of fusion, but becoming a pop star takes a lot of time, dedication, and in our belief, the right image, sound and bio. If you are interested in “going big or going home” you should reach out to us to start the conversation about how you would go about that.
Does EAR have any free resources for artists to learn about the music industry?
We are constantly expanding our online resources for artists. EAR News gives artists a way to see case studies and updates about the music industry. Artist Hub gives EAR artists a free way to educate themselves about all aspects of music and the music industry. We also have a list of outstanding books that you can get through Amazon to learn more about the music industry and making music.
How can I make an appointment for an ear checkup?
Unfortunately, this isn’t the place for medical inquiries. You can learn more about EAR by clicking here.
Music
Can EAR help me with mixing/mastering my track?
Yes! If you are interested in working with an audio engineer, we highly recommend checking out EAR Mix and EAR Master. It’s kind of like SoundBetter, but run by independents and pros, and is a little more affordable.
Can EAR help me with music distribution?
Yes! We offer a way to distribute your music through EAR Distro. Aside from releasing your music digitally worldwide, you can also enjoy a dedicated team of individuals making sure your release is going the extra mile.
What are the benefits of distributing through EAR?
Aside from checking your music with our polling system and metadata scanner (which helps with submissions) we also make sure your music and lyrics are released with the best care and quality. We can help with your performance rights organization, getting your lyrics transcribed, placed, and synced, and register your song on multiple platforms. We also help with building your fan email list, and pre-save campaigns through EAR Distro.
How do I send my music to get mixed?
We highly recommend getting in touch with us before purchasing EAR Mix so we can review what you’re working with. Low quality audio is hard to remedy, so making sure your music is ready for a mix is the first step. We will send you a private upload link to send us your stems once everything is in check.
How long is it recommended to upload my music to a distributor before I release it?
It depends on what your goals are. If you’re interested in getting on Spotify playlists, stores recommend uploading at least 4 weeks before the release date. This is also true for synchronizing your release date on all streaming platforms, however, EAR recommends giving as much time as possible to the distributor, stores, and professionals to review your music before it is released.
Does EAR take care of my PRO and publishing royalties?
We help artists manage their PRO accounts when releasing new material, and within the first few months of working together. We can help with publishing, however, it all depends on which publisher you are working with, and how much access you give to EAR.
Online Questions
Can EAR help me get my music on the radio?
Yes! While we cannot guarantee radio placements, your manager can pitch your new releases for radio. Radio markets include USA college, internet radio, and international.
How do I get verified on Instagram?
While we do work on many Instagram campaigns, and artist accounts, we are not Instagram. To learn more about Instagram verification, there is more information on their website here.
How do I update my bio on my streaming services?
For Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon, updating your biography is as easy as downloading the appropriate artist application, and claiming your artist profile. For other streaming services, you must communicate directly with their support staff, or open a conversation with your distributor. Alternatively, EAR manages all streaming services for artists so they don't have to stay on hold for sometimes hours.
Can EAR help me rebrand my Spotify?
Yes.
Can EAR help me with Spotify Canvas?
Yes. We offer animation services for Spotify canvas, and also work with artists to create outstanding visual identity for their music. Feel free to check out EAR Motion Echo for animation, or contact us about rebranding your Spotify Canvas.
How long is it recommended to book an event before playing it?
Six weeks minimum.
EAR Account
I can't get into my account. What should I do?
If you forgot your password, there is a section to reset your password on the login screen.
I need to make changes to my account information. How can I go about doing that?
After logging into your EAR account, you can update your information with the tab on the right side of the screen. Updatable info includes; subscriptions, mailing address, card information, order history, and more.
How do I access Artist Hub through my EAR Account?
On the navigation pane, select ‘memberships’ to access Artist Hub, and its navigation menu.
How do I remove a recurring charge?
On the navigation pane, select ‘orders’ to access recurring charges. Here you can select which order you would like to cancel or review.
What happens if I don't resubscribe to EAR Distro?
Distribution subscriptions that are cancelled before the end of their 1st year term may result in a $50 cancellation fee and the removal of any distributed music released within 3 months of the cancellation date. To prevent music from disappearing from stores, you can request a closeout or keep your subscription.
What happens if I don't resubscribe to EAR Online?
Website subscriptions that are cancelled either by the subscriber or after 15 days of failed payment attempts will automatically disable your website linked to EAR Online. If no action is taken, the website will remain inactive, and domains will be marked as for sale within 30 days. Domains can be transfered to another domain provider upon request.
I purchased a recurring subscription or had orders on my EAR account made before January 1, 2021. How do I view/cancel/update my account or orders?
All EAR Accounts and subscription orders that were purchased before January 1, 2021 were cancelled during the migration of the new eltonaudio.com website. Subscribers that wish to continue with subscription services were notified on January 3, 2021 about this change. Additionally, customers with old recurring subscription orders made prior to January 1, 2021 are notified one month before their subscription end to resubscribe on their new account if they wish to continue.
Getting Paid
How much revenue will I earn from my music if signed?
It all depends on how popular your music is on streaming services, and the other forms of income that stem from your music business. Typically, releasing music with EAR grants you access to receive streaming royalties at the label rate, instead of the independent rate for most musicians. You can learn more about that here.
What is the difference between the independent streaming royalty rate and the label royalty rate?
Streaming services pay artists a variable rate (more info on that here) but pay more to labels to cover the costs of royalty splits. For example, in some cases a typical Spotify stream for an unsigned artist would equate to $0.00318 per stream, but a signed artist would earn about double, at $0.00636.
When does EAR do payouts?
Typically we do payouts quarterly, but in some cases for smaller artists, these payouts may be deferred bi-annually.
Why haven't I received my payout?
It’s possible there were not enough reported earnings for this quarter, however, if you feel like there has been an error, please let us know. Please note, streaming services are known to have a 2-3 month (or more) delay in payouts.
Business & Teams
What is a recommended marketing budget for a single?
We can work with any budget, but the lowest we would recommend is $500. We like to focus on running advertisements, getting placements for blogs and playlists, and boosting your overall engagement rate on all platforms. Additionally, this can help with music video promotion.
What is a recommended marketing budget for an album?
We can work with any budget, but the lowest we would recommend is $500. We like to focus on running advertisements, getting placements for blogs and playlists, and boosting your overall engagement rate on all platforms. Additionally, this can help with music video promotion.
After I agree to a marketing budget and ads begin to run, how much time do I have to change my mind?
Due to the terms and conditions of our advertising partners or the advertising companies we use to market your campaign, we are unable to return the entire ad budget after a marketing campaign is agreed upon and ads begin to run. Some of these entities require a pre-paid purchase of allocated funds, usually in the form of the platforms' currency called "credits". Once credits are purchased, there isn't a way to obtain a refund (turning branded credits back into government currency) in most cases. Any leftover balances that have not yet been allocated to credit based submissions can be sent back to the artist within 3-5 business days after recieving a request to return an ad budget.
What is the difference between artist management and development?
Under artist development, EAR takes care of helping build and establish your brand (sound, image, bio). Artist management is taking that brand that’s already been established and pushing it to the next level. If you would like to learn more about the different ways to work with EAR, you can do so by clicking here.
How much control do I retain over my music if I get signed?
You will maintain complete control. We don’t believe in holding onto your intellectual property (copyright) which is why we focus on giving you complete control over your masters. Your manager can only advise you on how to run your artist career, but can never take control of it.
If I am contacted by an outside entity (label, talent agency etc.) should I forward the message to my manager?
If you'd like a second opinion you should definitely send it to your manager. Ideally you should always include your manager on communications about your artist career, because they are a part of your team, and it's their job to advise you for your best interest. On EAR management, especially during advertising campaigns, we require that all important transactions are communicated in a timely manner as it is stated in all EAR artist management agreements.
Creators & Services
I'm a graphic designer. How can I apply for EAR Design?
You can contact us here.
I'm an animator. How can I apply for EAR Motion?
You can contact us here.
I'm a songwriter. How can I apply for EAR Ghost?
You can contact us here.
I'm a musician. How does EAR Ghost work?
If you are looking to join EAR Ghost, we offer artists ghost written lyrics at an exlusive rate. At this time we only offer custom taylored lyrical work. An artist can work with a songwriter to build a song from scratch, or create lyrics around a beat and a story/topic. Once the lyrics are finshed, the artist retains the right to distribute it however they would like, as long as they credit the writer within the metadata (streaming services) or in the description (YouTube/SoundCloud).
I'm a musician. How do I apply for EAR Beats?
You can contact us here.
I'm a musician. How does EAR beats work?
If you are looking to join EAR Beats, we offer artists custom beats at an exlusive rate. At this time we only offer custom taylored beat production since our catalog is always selling out. An artist can work with us on the production they are looking for, and we produce it. Once the beat is finshed, the artist retains the right to distribute it however they would like, as long as they credit the producer within the metadata (streaming services) or in the description (YouTube/SoundCloud).
I'm a photographer. How do I apply for EAR Snap?
You can contact us here.
Am I required to use EAR services if I am signed?
No, but they are there for your benefit.
Does EAR offer individual services to non-signed creators?
Yes. Click here to learn more about our single services.
How much are playlist submissions?
Submission is completely free! Click here to submit your music. What genres of playlists does EAR have that I can submit to? We offer playlists covering all genres from EDM to metal to a capella.
Can EAR help me with photos/video production
Yes! Click here to learn about our photo and video production/editing services.
Can EAR help me with my website?
Yes! Click here to learn about our website management services.
Can EAR help me with music distribution?
Yes! We offer music distribution and management services through DistroKid. Click here to learn more.
How does EAR Design work?
EAR design allows artists to get any design work done quickly and professionally. Click here to learn how we can help bring your next idea to life.
What's the difference between EAR store pricing and EAR Artist Hub pricing?
Standard EAR store pricing is available for everyone. However, if you are signed, artists receive access to the EAR Store for Artists where our services are heavily discounted up to 80% off.
What's the difference between EAR Online and EAR Online Advanced?
While EAR Online gives anyone the ability to have their own professionally hosted website with us, the Advanced option allows for established brands to completely control their entire user experience From fully integrated commerce solutions to 24 hour website service management.
What's the difference between EAR Motion Echo and EAR Motion 2D?
While EAR Motion 2D focuses on 2D animation mainly for shorts and music videos, EAR Motion Echo focuses on completely custom animated Spotify Canvas videos.
How much commission will my manager make?
While many managers in the modern day music industry take upwards of 20% of your gross revenue, EAR managers take a more realistic approach at 15% of your gross revenues.
I want to purchase a service, should I contact EAR first, or buy the service first?
You can purchase services directly from our store. However if you have questions please consult the FAQ page or contact us here.
Can EAR write my press release?
Yes! EAR has a dedicated team of writers who can custom tailor a press release for your next project. Click here to learn more.
EAR Service Terms
Beats
Artists are entitled up to 5 revisions for custom beat production per order. Once the artist accepts the custom beat for delivery, no more revisions apply. If the artist does not respond to an acceptable form of communication regarding thier order within 10 business days, the order will be marked as fulfilled. Artist is entitled to a full refund before any revisions are made. Artist retains exclusive ownership for one beat per EAR Beats order.
Cinema
By using EAR Cinema, you agree to the terms and coditions set by the videographer outside of the EAR network. Any issues, not limited to scheduling, delivery, working conditions, and/or payment details are not the reponsibility of Elton Audio, and should be handled by the party handling the videography order made outside of www.eltonaudio.com.
Design
All design orders have a 100% money back guarantee if cancelled, or requested to cancel within 48 hours after purchase. Up to 2 revisions can be made on any EAR Design order, unless otherwise specified by 3rd party EAR Pro Designers.
Distro
All new subscribers are entitled to one free article press release on EAR News. Press releases are limited to one per artist filing name. One EAR Distro subscription is valid for one artist filing name. By opting into Optional Features you give Elton Audio, and its advertising partners the right to distribute media content on behalf of the copyright owner limtied to audio, image, and text for the benefit of the artist, their music, and the EAR Distro service. Cancellations prior to first year cycle end may result in a cancellation fee of $49.99. Elton Audio Records does not claim, and shall not be held accountable for; (5A) Projects not releasing at scheduled release time or date or delays in project updates after submission or publicly releasing, (5B) errors or changes in project display, playback, or spelling that has been caused by streaming services, stores, and/or multimedia playing devices, and/or (5C) removal of music from stores due to subscription cancellation. Read all terms.
Ghost
All Ghost orders have a 100% money back guarantee if cancelled, or requested to cancel within 48 hours after purchase. Up to 2 revisions can be made on any EAR Ghost order, unless otherwise specified by 3rd party EAR Ghost Writers.
Mix
Artists are entitled up to 5 revisions for Mix, Master, or Mix Pro per order. Once the artist accepts the mix or master for delivery, no more revisions apply. If the artist does not respond to an acceptable form of communication regarding thier order within 10 business days, the order will be marked as fulfilled. Artist is entitled to a full refund before any revisions are made.
Motion
All Motion orders have a 100% money back guarantee if cancelled, or requested to cancel within 48 hours after purchase. Up to 1 revision can be made on any EAR Motion order, unless otherwise specified by 3rd party EAR Motion Animator.
News
All News orders have a 100% money back guarantee if cancelled, or requested to cancel within 48 hours after purchase. Up to 1 revision can be made on any EAR News order, unless otherwise specified by 3rd party EAR News Writers.
Online
One EAR Online subscription is valid for one artist filing name. By using EAR Online you give Elton Audio, and its advertising partners the right to distribute media content on behalf of the copyright owner limtied to any content listed on the linked domain for the benefit of the artist, their music, and the EAR Online service. Cancellations prior to first month cycle end may result in a cancellation fee of $49.99. Elton Audio Records does not claim, and shall not be held accountable for; (5A) Additions or changes not releasing at scheduled time or date or delays in project updates after submission or publicly releasing, and/or (5B) errors or changes in website display or spelling that has been caused by browser support, cloud network error, or the viewing device and/or (5C) unavailable access to view website caused by, but not limited to, domain link error, host error, DNS error, SSL error, unauthorized access error, missed subscription payment or unavailable network connection. In the event that a subscription payment cannot be processed on the recurring date, the subscriber will have a total of (15) days to update their payment preferences before the website subscription is cancelled. The service will attempt to charge the subscriber again every 5 days, for a total of 3 reattempts. If the first reattempt fails, the site will initiate the cancellation process until the subscriber updates their payment preferences, or the site is cancelled.
Snap
By using EAR Snap, you agree to the terms and coditions set by the photographer outside of the EAR network. Any issues, not limited to scheduling, delivery, working conditions, and/or payment details are not the reponsibility of Elton Audio, and should be handled by the party handling the photography order made outside of www.eltonaudio.com.
Video
All Video orders have a 100% money back guarantee if cancelled, or requested to cancel within 48 hours after purchase. Up to 1 revision can be made on any EAR Video order, unless otherwise specified by any EAR Video Editor.
Photo
All Photo orders have a 100% money back guarantee if cancelled, or requested to cancel within 48 hours after purchase. Up to 1 revision can be made on any EAR Photo order, unless otherwise specified by any EAR Photo Editor.
Management & Termination
Any contractual agreements made between artists and managers will be honored until any breach of contract is made by either party. Termiation notices can be done in either a verbal or written format. Official termination letters will be sent out within 24 hours after either party informs the other party about their interest in terminating. Once a termination letter is sent to any party, all managerial duties for the artist will be set to inactive until accounts are officially closed within 10 business days.
Subscription Cancellations
On any subscription order, cancellations can be done within the customers' account. To access your customer account, log into your account by clicking the Log In button located in the header of this website. Alternatively, if you are already logged in, this button will display as Account. Subscription orders can be found under the Subscriptions tab in the account side taskbar.
Marketing Campaigns
Marketing campaigns made between artists and managers do not guarentee results discussed or stated by any party, eltonaudio.com, or 3rd party service. Marketing campaigns that are accepted by the artist cannot be altered or changed once delivery has started. Unallocated budgets that have been transfered or converted into credits on 3rd party marketing companies or websites cannot be refunded. Unallocated budgets that are unused during or after the campaign duration end period, can and will be dispursed back to the artist upon request or at the campaign end period.
