EP vs Album: How to Upload Songs to Spotify

In the evolving music industry, understanding the distinction between an EP and an album, as well as the process of uploading songs to Spotify, is crucial for emerging artists. Whether you're looking to distribute a handful of tracks or a full-length collection, this guide will shed light on these formats and walk you through the steps of sharing your music on Spotify.

What is an EP?

An EP, or Extended Play, is a musical release that contains more tracks than a single but fewer than a full-length album. Typically, an EP has around 3 to 5 songs and is often used by artists to give a glimpse of what they have to offer, without the commitment of a full album. It’s also a great way for new artists to introduce themselves to an audience.

What is an Album?

An album, on the other hand, is a longer, full-length collection of music. Usually, an album consists of 10 to 15 tracks and provides a more comprehensive showcase of an artist's work. Albums are often seen as a significant milestone in an artist's career, representing a substantial body of work.

Choosing Between an EP and an Album

When deciding between releasing an EP or an album, artists should consider their current stage in their career, the amount of material they have, and their marketing strategy. If you're an emerging artist with a few solid tracks, an EP might be the best route to start building a fanbase. Conversely, if you have a larger collection of songs and a growing audience, an album might be the next logical step.

How to Upload Songs to Spotify

Regardless of whether you choose an EP or an album, getting your music on Spotify is essential for reaching a broad audience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you upload your songs to Spotify:

1. Choose a Music Distribution Service

Spotify does not allow direct uploads from artists; instead, you need to use a music distribution service. Some popular options include SoundOn, Tunecore, Distrokid, and CD Baby. These platforms help distribute your music to Spotify and other streaming services.

2. Sign Up and Create an Account

Register with your chosen music distribution service. For example, if you choose SoundOn, you’ll need to create an account, provide artist information, and upload your tracks.

3. Prepare Your Music and Metadata

Before uploading, ensure your tracks are high-quality and properly formatted. You'll also need to prepare metadata, including song titles, artist names, album artwork, and genre tags. Make sure everything is accurate to avoid issues later.

4. Upload Your Music

Follow the instructions on your distribution service’s platform to upload your tracks. During this process, you’ll need to provide information such as release date, pricing, and territories where you want your music to be available.

5. Submit for Review

Most distribution services review your submission to ensure everything is in order. This process can take a few days, so be patient. Once approved, your music will be scheduled for release on Spotify and other streaming platforms.

6. Promote Your Release

After your music is live on Spotify, promotion is crucial. Use social media, email newsletters, and other marketing channels to inform your audience of your new release. Platforms like TikTok and CapCut can also be helpful for reaching new fans and driving streams.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between an EP and an album, and knowing how to upload your music to Spotify, is vital for any aspiring musician. By choosing the right format and following the steps outlined above, you can effectively share your music with the world and grow your fanbase. Consider signing up with SoundOn to streamline your music distribution and take your career to the next level.