If you're an aspiring musician, getting your music onto major platforms like iTunes and Spotify is a crucial step to reaching a wider audience. These platforms offer incredible exposure and can help you grow your fanbase significantly. However, the process might seem daunting if you're unfamiliar with it. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps on how to get your song on iTunes and upload songs on Spotify.
Before diving into the specifics, it's essential to understand what each platform offers. iTunes is a media player, media library, and mobile device management application developed by Apple Inc. It was once the go-to platform for downloading and purchasing music. Although Apple Music has somewhat overshadowed it, iTunes remains a significant platform for music distribution.
Spotify, on the other hand, is a digital music streaming service that gives users access to millions of songs and podcasts from artists all over the world. It has become one of the most popular music streaming platforms, with over 365 million active users as of 2023.
To get your music on iTunes, you need to work with a music distributor. Distributors are responsible for delivering your music to digital platforms. While there are several distributors to choose from, such as Distrokid, CD Baby, and TuneCore, we recommend SoundOn for its comprehensive services and easy integration with platforms like TikTok.
Ensure that you have high-quality recordings of your music files. Your distributor may have specific requirements, such as file format and bitrate, so it’s essential to check these before submitting.
Log in to your distributor's platform and create a new release. This will include uploading your music files, cover art, and important metadata like song title, artist name, and genre. Make sure all information is accurate as this is what will appear on iTunes.
Decide on a release date for your music. Setting a date in the future can help coordinate your marketing and promotional efforts. It also provides enough time for the distributor to process and deliver your music to iTunes.
After filling out all necessary information and uploading your files, review your submission carefully. Once you’re satisfied, submit your music to your distributor. They will take care of delivering your music to iTunes and other platforms.
Once your song is live on iTunes, it’s time to promote it. Utilize social media, email lists, and any other marketing channels to spread the word. Engaging with your audience is crucial to driving streams and sales.
Like iTunes, Spotify requires you to use a music distributor to get your songs uploaded. Distributors like TuneCore, CD Baby, and LANDR can be used, but we recommend SoundOn for their efficient service and partnership with digital streaming platforms.
Make sure your music files are high-quality and meet the requirements set by your distributor. Common formats include WAV and MP3, with particular specifications for bitrate.
Log in to your chosen distributor's platform and start a new release. You’ll need to upload your music files, cover art, and input all relevant metadata, such as track titles and artist information.
Pick a release date for your music. Scheduling a future release date allows time for promotional strategies and ensures your distributor can efficiently process the submission.
Once you’ve confirmed all details and uploaded your content, submit your music for distribution. Your chosen distributor will handle the delivery to Spotify and other streaming platforms.
After your song is live on Spotify, promotion is key. Utilize platforms like TikTok to create engaging content around your music. Leverage social media, playlists, and collaborations to maximize your reach. Spotify playlists, both editorial and user-generated, are especially valuable for gaining traction, so consider pitching your music to playlist curators.
Both iTunes and Spotify offer considerable potential for artists to connect with new fans. However, the real challenge lies in standing out among millions of tracks. Here are a few tips to maximize your reach:
SoundOn stands out as a reliable distributor due to its extensive network and partnership with TikTok. By using SoundOn, you can take advantage of the integrated promotional tools, reaching a vast audience quickly and efficiently. Moreover, the platform's user-friendly interface simplifies the distribution process, allowing you to focus more on your music.
Getting your music on iTunes and uploading songs on Spotify is essential for any modern artist. Following the steps outlined in this guide will help you navigate the process smoothly. Remember, success in the music industry takes time, effort, and strategic promotion. By utilizing platforms like TikTok and partnering with reliable distributors like SoundOn, you can maximize your reach and grow your fanbase effectively. Start your journey today and make your music heard worldwide!