For those who say rock and heavy metal music is dead, TuneCore has revealed heavy metal is the fastest-growing music genre worldwide. The New York based company provides digital distribution, publishing and licensing services for independent artists, has announced its artists earned $83 million in the first quarter of 2019, a 21% increase over Q1 2018. This increase brought a total distribution revenue to $1.5 billion. Last year, distribution reached $308 million in 2018, a 28% increase.

Scott Ackerman, CEO of TuneCore addressed how TuneCore is the only global platform that pays artists 100% from their digital earnings.

He stated:

“TuneCore is the only global platform that pays artists 100% of what they earn from digital streams and downloads, while also meeting all of their needs across distribution, promotion and publishing administration. In 2019 we’re seeing great momentum in helping our customers build sustainable careers by finding new income across formats and channels.”

Tunecore revealed 2018 numbers of the fastest-growing music genres worldwide and heavy metal triumphed all:

Heavy metal – 154% increase

J-Pop – 133% increase

R&B/Soul – 68% increase

K-Pop – 58% increase

World music – 57% increase

Instrumental – 42% increase