Photo Credit: Distro Nation

Symphonic Distribution has announced the acquisition of Distro Nation, a New York-based distributor and YouTube monetization platform.

Distro Nation was originally founded in 2011 as INDMUSIC, which helped bring about viral moments including Baauer’s “Harlem Shake.” INDMUSIC was eventually absorbed by Live Nation as part of its Live Nation Video Network. In 2024, they returned to independence under the new name Distro Nation, with a continued focus on YouTube monetization and channel administration management.

Distro Nation supports over 200 artists with their hands-on approach, reporting tools, monthly royalty payouts, and Tier A YouTube status, which unlocks top-tier ad rates. The acquisition will bring a strong roster of channels under Symphonic management including Lindsey Stirling, Sabaton, Yanni, Good Charlotte, Bryant Myers, and Switchfoot.

The acquisition will also include the management and monetization of Chappell Roan’s YouTube channel for content released prior to her 2023 debut album, The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.

“Distro Nation, like Symphonic, has been a champion for independent artists for many years, providing invaluable resources to help artists thrive on YouTube and beyond,” says Jorge Brea, CEO of Symphonic. “This acquisition was a natural partnership that will allow us to offer even better tools and strategies for success to our artist and label community. We’re excited to welcome Distro Nation and their clients to the Symphonic family.”

Through this acquisition, Symphonic says it will expand its expertise in monetizing official videos and fan uploads, protecting music through YouTube Content ID, collecting publishing royalties, optimizing channels for audience growth, and tracking revenue performance with advanced analytics.

“Throughout the past 15 years at Distro Nation, our goal has always been to innovate and provide the support artists need to succeed in an ever-changing landscape,” says Jon Baltz, CEO & Co-Founder of Distro Nation. “We’re thrilled to join Symphonic and expand even further on what we’ve built.”