How to Change Artist Name and Use Singles as an Album Advance?

Navigating the world of music distribution can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to managing your artist profile and planning your releases. Two common scenarios artists often find themselves in are wanting to change their artist name on DistroKid and utilizing singles as an advance to promote a future album. In this guide, we'll delve into these topics, providing a step-by-step process on both, while also exploring how using SoundOn can benefit your music distribution strategy.

How to Change Your Artist Name on DistroKid

Changing your artist name can be a significant decision, whether it’s due to branding reasons or a complete rebrand. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process on DistroKid:

1. Log into Your DistroKid Account: Start by logging into your DistroKid account using your credentials.
2. Contact DistroKid Support: Currently, DistroKid does not offer a direct option for changing your artist name through their platform. Therefore, you will need to reach out to their support team. Navigate to the support section and submit a request with your current artist name and the new artist name you want to use.
3. Provide Supporting Documents: Sometimes, DistroKid might ask for supporting documents or additional verification to process your name change request. Be prepared to provide any necessary documents promptly.
4. Wait for Confirmation: DistroKid’s support team will notify you once the artist name change is processed. This might take some time, so it's essential to be patient and check your email regularly for updates.

After your name change is approved, it’s a good practice to update all your promotional materials, social media profiles, and notify your fans about the change to ensure a smooth transition.

Using Singles as an Advance for Your Album

Releasing singles ahead of an album is a fantastic way to build anticipation and engage your audience. Here are some strategies to effectively use singles as an album advance:

Build Hype and Engage Your Audience

The weeks leading up to an album release are crucial. By releasing singles in advance, you can create a buzz and keep your audience engaged. Here’s how:

1. Choose the Right Singles: Select tracks from your upcoming album that have the potential to attract attention and resonate with your audience.
2. Strategic Release Schedule: Plan your release schedule strategically. This could mean dropping a single every few weeks or months leading up to the album release.
3. Utilize Social Media: Use social media platforms to tease snippets, behind-the-scenes content, and launch countdowns to keep your fans excited.

Enhance Playlist Placements

Getting your singles onto playlists can significantly increase your reach. Here are some tips for pitching your singles to playlist curators:

• Submit Early: Submit your singles to playlist curators well ahead of the release date. This gives them ample time to consider your track for inclusion.
• Highlight Key Elements: When pitching, highlight the most compelling aspects of your song. This could be the hook, the message, or any unique elements that make your track stand out.
• Use Data: Provide streaming data, engagement metrics, and any past successes to support your pitch.

Promotional Campaigns

Running promotional campaigns for your singles can boost their visibility. Here’s how to make the most out of your promotion efforts:

1. Use Marketing Platforms: Platforms like SoundOn offer comprehensive marketing and distribution services. Registering as a SoundOn artist can help amplify your promotional efforts.
2. Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with influencers who can share your music with their followers, providing more exposure.
3. Leverage Social Ads: Utilize social media advertising to target specific demographics and increase your singles’ reach.

Conclusion

Changing your artist name on DistroKid and strategically using singles to promote an upcoming album are crucial steps in managing your music career. Both processes require careful planning and execution. Whether you’re rebranding or looking to boost your album's success, using platforms like SoundOn can provide the essential tools and support needed for effective music distribution and marketing. Remember, the key is to stay proactive, keep your audience engaged, and utilize all available resources to maximize your reach and impact in the music industry.