Getting Started

How do I create an account?

Click "Get Started" on the homepage and select your account type (Artist, Label, or Producer). Fill in your details including your legal name (must match your bank account), email, and password. Verify your email and you're ready to start distributing.

Do I need to be a registered business?

No. Independent artists can sign up as individuals. You only need your South African ID number and a valid bank account. If you're a registered business or label, you can select the Label plan for additional features.

How long does approval take?

Account approval is instant for the Free plan. Pro Artist accounts are approved within 24 hours. Label accounts may require additional verification and can take 1-2 business days.

Music & Releases

What audio formats do you accept?

We accept WAV (16-bit or 24-bit, 44.1kHz or 48kHz) and FLAC files. MP3s are not accepted as they don't meet DSP quality standards. Files must be properly mastered with no clipping or distortion.

What are the cover art requirements?

Cover art must be:

  • Minimum 3000x3000 pixels
  • Perfect square (1:1 ratio)
  • RGB color mode (JPG or PNG)
  • No URLs, barcodes, or contact information
  • No explicit content on the cover
  • Maximum file size: 10MB

How far in advance should I schedule my release?

We require a minimum of 3 days advance notice. However, we recommend scheduling at least 2-4 weeks ahead for major platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. This gives DSPs time to process and increases your chances of playlist placement.

Can I release cover songs or remixes?

Cover songs require a mechanical license. You must obtain the proper licenses before distributing covers. Remixes require permission from the original rights holder. We do not distribute unauthorized remixes or covers.

Can I edit my release after submission?

Yes, but only while the release is in "Draft" status. Once submitted for review, changes require approval. After distribution, metadata changes (like artist name, title) may take 1-2 weeks to update across all platforms. Audio file changes require a new release.

Royalties & Payments

How much do I earn per stream?

Streaming rates vary by platform, country, and listener subscription type. On average, South African artists earn between R0.003 and R0.01 per stream. Premium subscribers generate higher royalties than free users. Rates are set by the DSPs, not by FFP Radio.

When do I get paid?

Royalties are paid monthly, approximately 45-60 days after the end of each month. For example, January earnings are typically paid in late March. The minimum payout threshold is R500. If you don't reach R500, your earnings roll over to the next month.

Which banks do you support?

We support all major South African banks including FNB, ABSA, Standard Bank, Nedbank, Capitec, Investec, Discovery Bank, TymeBank, African Bank, and Old Mutual. We pay via EFT directly to your account.

Do I need to pay tax on my royalties?

Yes, royalty income is taxable in South Africa. We provide tax-compliant statements for SARS. You should declare your music income on your annual tax return. We recommend consulting with a tax professional for personalized advice.

Distribution

Which platforms will my music be on?

Your music will be distributed to 150+ platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Boomplay, Audiomack, Deezer, Tidal, Amazon Music, SoundCloud, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and many more. You can choose which platforms to distribute to.

Can I choose which countries my music is available in?

Yes. You can select Worldwide, Africa-only, South Africa-only, or SADC region. You can also exclude specific territories if needed. This is useful if you have existing deals in certain regions.

How long does it take for my music to go live?

After approval, most platforms receive your music within 24-48 hours. However, it may take 3-7 days for your release to appear on all platforms. Major platforms like Spotify and Apple Music typically take 2-5 days. TikTok and Instagram may take up to 2 weeks.

Can I take my music down?

Yes, you can request a takedown at any time with no penalties. Takedown requests are processed within 5-7 business days. Some platforms may take up to 2 weeks to fully remove your content from their systems.

Rights & Legal

Do I keep ownership of my music?

Yes, absolutely. You retain 100% ownership of your music and all associated rights. FFP Radio only acts as your distribution partner. We do not claim any ownership, publishing rights, or creative control over your work.

What is SAMPRA and do I need to register?

SAMPRA (South African Music Performance Rights Association) collects needletime royalties when your music is played publicly (radio, TV, venues, etc.). While not mandatory, registration is highly recommended as it can significantly increase your income. We provide links to register in your dashboard.

What is SAMRO and do I need to register?

SAMRO (Southern African Music Rights Organisation) collects performance royalties for composers and publishers. If you write your own music, you should register as a composer. If you have a publisher, they may already be registered on your behalf.

Support

How do I contact support?

Free plan users can email support@ffpradio.co.za with a 48-hour response time. Pro Artist users get priority email support with 24-hour response. Label users have a dedicated account manager available during business hours.

Do you offer artist development services?

We focus on distribution and do not offer management, A&R, or marketing services. However, we provide comprehensive guides and resources to help you grow your career. We also partner with SA music industry professionals who offer these services.

Still Have Questions?

Our support team is here to help you with anything you need.

Hours

Mon-Fri, 9am - 5pm SAST