What are the Cheapest Music Streaming Services?

Music streaming has become the go-to method for listening to music, with millions of tracks available at our fingertips. However, the cost of these services can add up. In this article, we'll explore some of the cheapest music streaming services available and how you can upload music to Spotify for free.

Cheapest Music Streaming Services

There are several affordable music streaming options that provide access to vast libraries of music without breaking the bank. Here are some of the cheapest options:

Pandora

Pandora offers a free tier supported by ads and two premium options: Pandora Plus at $4.99 per month and Pandora Premium at $9.99 per month. With Pandora, you can create personalized radio stations based on your favorite artists, songs, or genres.

Amazon Music

Amazon Music offers various plans, including a free ad-supported version. Amazon Prime members get access to Amazon Music Prime, included with their membership, offering over 2 million songs. For more extensive access, Amazon Music Unlimited is available at $7.99 per month for Prime members and $9.99 for non-Prime members.

Spotify

Spotify is one of the most popular music streaming services, offering both free and premium subscriptions. The free version is ad-supported, while the premium version costs $9.99 per month and provides ad-free listening, offline playback, and higher sound quality.

Apple Music

Although Apple Music doesn't have a free tier, it offers competitive pricing at $9.99 per month. It also includes a three-month free trial for new users. Apple Music is known for its high-quality sound and exclusive releases.

YouTube Music

YouTube Music offers a free ad-supported version and a premium version at $9.99 per month. The premium version provides ad-free listening, offline playback, and access to YouTube Originals.

Deezer

Deezer offers a free tier with ads and several premium plans: Deezer Premium at $9.99 per month, Deezer Family at $14.99 per month, and Deezer Student at $4.99 per month. Deezer boasts a library of over 73 million tracks and personalized playlists.

Upload Music to Spotify for Free

For artists looking to upload their music to Spotify for free, there are several strategies to consider. Here's a step-by-step guide to getting your music onto Spotify without spending a dime:

1. Use a Free Distribution Service

Several distribution services allow free uploads to Spotify and other streaming platforms. Some of these services might take a percentage of your royalties instead of charging upfront fees. It's crucial to thoroughly research and choose a service that fits your needs.

One such service is SoundOn. SoundOn provides a platform for artists to distribute their music globally and gain exposure through TikTok and SoundOn's exclusive partners.

2. Prepare Your Music

Ensure your music files are in the correct format (typically WAV or FLAC for highest quality) and that your album artwork meets Spotify's specifications. Metadata, such as song titles, artist name, and genre, should be accurately filled out.

3. Create an Account with a Distributor

Sign up with your chosen distribution service and create an account. Follow their guidelines for uploading your music, providing all necessary information, and verifying your identity as an artist.

4. Upload Your Music

Follow the steps provided by your distributor to upload your music. This usually involves selecting the tracks you want to upload, adding album artwork, and filling out necessary metadata.

5. Monitor Your Release

After your music is uploaded and submitted, it goes through a review process before being released on Spotify. Keep an eye on your distributor's notifications for any updates or required actions. Once approved, your music will be available for streaming on Spotify.

6. Promote Your Music

Getting your music on Spotify is just the first step. To maximize your exposure, use social media, email newsletters, and your website to promote your release. Engage with your fans, share behind-the-scenes content, and collaborate with other artists to reach a broader audience.

7. Consider Playlists

Pitch your songs to Spotify playlists to increase your visibility. Playlists are a powerful tool for reaching new listeners and growing your fan base. Services like SoundOn also offer tools to help you pitch your music to playlist curators.

Conclusion

Finding the cheapest music streaming service that fits your needs and budget is essential for both music lovers and aspiring artists. Services like Pandora, Amazon Music, and Spotify offer various tiers to cater to different preferences. Additionally, uploading your music to Spotify for free is possible through distribution services like SoundOn, helping you reach a global audience without breaking the bank.

Don't wait to share your music with the world. Sign up with SoundOn today and start your journey toward musical success!