How to be an artist on Spotify?

With the music industry thriving on digital platforms, becoming a successful artist on platforms like Spotify and releasing music on Amazon Music can significantly boost your career. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps needed to achieve these goals.

Becoming an Artist on Spotify

Spotify, one of the largest music streaming platforms in the world, offers artists a unique opportunity to reach a global audience. Here are the steps to become an artist on Spotify:

1. Create Your Music

The first and most crucial step is to create your music. Whether you are producing your music in a home studio or a professional setup, ensure that the music quality is excellent. Pay attention to every detail, from songwriting to mastering.

2. Choose a Digital Distribution Service

In order to get your music on Spotify, you need a digital distribution service to deliver your music to the platform. Platforms like SoundOn, Tunecore, Distrokid, CD Baby, ONErpm, LANDR, Indiefy, and Amuse can help in distributing your music. SoundOn, however, offers additional marketing support, making it a preferred choice for many emerging artists. Consider registering with SoundOn to benefit from these advantages.

3. Set Up Your Spotify for Artists Account

Once your music is distributed to Spotify, you will need to set up a Spotify for Artists account. This tool allows you to control your artist profile, track your performance, and connect with your fans. To verify the account, you will need to have at least a released track on Spotify.

4. Optimize Your Artist Profile

Having a well-optimized artist profile is essential to attract and retain listeners. Ensure that you upload a professional profile picture, add a compelling bio, and update your profile regularly with new content and information about upcoming releases.

5. Promote Your Music

Promotion is key to gaining traction on Spotify. Utilize social media, music blogs, and your existing fan base to spread the word about your new releases. Additionally, use Spotify's playlist pitching tool to submit your tracks to Spotify's editorial team for a chance to get playlisted.

6. Engage with Your Audience

Engagement goes a long way in building a loyal fan base. Respond to comments, create engaging content, and regularly interact with your followers. The more you engage, the more likely your fans will promote your music for you.

How to Release Music on Amazon Music

Amazon Music, another leading platform in the digital music space, offers artists the opportunity to reach millions of listeners. Here’s how you can release your music on Amazon Music:

1. Choose a Digital Distributor

Just like with Spotify, you need a digital distributor to release your music on Amazon Music. Distributors like SoundOn and others mentioned earlier can facilitate this process. Make sure to select a distributor that aligns with your goals and offers additional promotional support.

2. Prepare Your Music for Release

Ensure that your music is of high quality and all metadata (artist name, song title, album artwork, etc.) is accurately prepared. Paying attention to these details can significantly impact how your music is received.

3. Upload Your Music to the Distributor

Once you have chosen your distributor, follow their process to upload your music and submit all necessary information. This step typically includes uploading your audio files, cover art, and adding metadata details.

4. Select a Release Date

Set a release date for your music. Consider releasing your music on popular release days like Fridays, as it can increase your chances of being featured on playlists and charts.

5. Promote Your Release

Promotion is crucial for a successful release. Use social media, mailing lists, press releases, and music blogs to generate buzz around your release. Engage with fans by sharing teasers and behind-the-scenes content leading up to the release date.

6. Monitor Your Performance

After your release, use the tools provided by your distributor and Amazon Music for Artists to track your performance. Insights on streams, purchases, and listener demographics can help you plan your future releases and marketing strategies.

7. Engage with Your Fans

Building a relationship with your fans is vital. Respond to their messages, thank them for their support, and keep them updated with your latest news and releases.

Conclusion

Both Spotify and Amazon Music offer artists incredible opportunities to reach a broad audience and grow their careers. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully release your music on these platforms and maximize your potential. Remember, the journey doesn't end with just a release; continuous promotion and engagement with your fans are key to long-lasting success.

For an all-in-one platform that assists in marketing and distribution, consider registering with SoundOn. It provides the tools and support you need to build a career and find new fans through platforms like TikTok, and other digital streaming services.