shine

 

So, you are set with the music but are unsure of how to reach Apple Music and Spotify? Don't worry, music distribution is less challenging than it appears! It is simpler to promote your songs due to digital technology. Let’s break down the steps together.

Select a Music Distribution Service That Suits You 

The first step is selecting a music distribution service that is compatible with you. While major labels can place music directly onto Spotify and Apple Music, independent artists do not have that luxury and need to work with a distributor to do it. Amuse, CD Baby, MusicAlligator, and DistroKid are popular services that can be used. All of them have advantages and disadvantages, so it is up to you to choose the one that fits your situation. 

• DistroKid: Easy uploads for a flat fee with the bonus of unlimited releases.

• MusicAlligator: Optimal if you do not plan on monetizing as you pay a one time charge per song or album. 

• TuneCore: Retain all of the earned royalties, but pay for each song that is released. 

• Amuse: Does not charge for services, but has many limitations.

All music services have different pros and cons. Pick one that will work for your budget and needs.

Organize Your Music & Visuals

Make certain your tracks are mixed and mastered professionally prior to uploading them. Quality requirements are strict for all streaming services, so make sure not to upload distorted or low quality audio. Additionally, don’t forget your album cover! Your cover must be sharp on all devices and is required to have dimensions 3000 x 3000 or greater.

Fill In The Correct Metadata

Metadata is the details that accompany your song; this includes things like, artist name, song title, genre, and release date. If you make a slight error here, expect major inconveniences, like having your song missing or being credited to the wrong person. Proper management of this information makes distribution an easier and professional process, as SoundCharts claims in the guide, so always validate all information provided before submission.

Select a Release Date and Pre-Save Campaigns

Your chances of being noticed increase when releasing during key times. Always set a target date at least four weeks before to allow yourself enough time for promotion. With the vast majority of distributors, you can upload pre-save links which allow fans to save your song even before it’s released, increasing the number of first day streams and algorithmic boosts.

Send Your Song For Playlist Consideration

New artists are benefitting from streaming playlists on platforms such as Spotify where independent artists can pitch their songs to be added onto their playlist using the Spotify for Artists feature. A playlist can enhance your streams a lot so it is something that has to be done! 

Promote Your Release

Once the track is live, don’t stay idle. Share, share, share!

• Post about it on social media with some behind the scenes footage.

• Contact various music blogs and youtube channels.

• Make sure your fans add the song to their own playlists.

Wrapping Up

Music distribution should be easy and straightforward and all it takes is a bit of guidance and executing your release in the right manner. With so many platforms that make it easy to learn, even novice artists can seamlessly promote their music. So, go get your music out there for the world to listen to!