As an aspiring musician, getting your music on major platforms like Apple Music and Spotify can be a game-changer for your career. These platforms offer immense opportunities for exposure, fan engagement, and revenue generation. In this guide, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to post on Apple Music and how to be an artist on Spotify. By following these steps, you can kickstart your journey in the music industry and reach a global audience.
Apple Music is one of the leading streaming services worldwide, and having your music available on this platform can significantly boost your career. Here are the steps to get your music on Apple Music:
Before you can post your music on Apple Music, make sure it is professionally recorded, mixed, and mastered. High-quality audio is essential for making a great impression on listeners. Additionally, you will need high-resolution album artwork that meets Apple's specifications (minimum 1400 x 1400 pixels).
Apple Music does not allow artists to upload music directly to the platform. Instead, you will need to use a third-party music distribution service. Some popular options include TuneCore, CD Baby, and SoundOn. Choose a distributor that suits your needs and register an account with them.
Once you have chosen a distribution service, follow their specific instructions to upload your music. This typically involves filling out metadata fields (such as song title, artist name, and genre), uploading your audio files, and submitting your cover art. Double-check all information for accuracy before submitting.
Choose a release date for your music and specify the platforms where you want it to be available, including Apple Music. Many distribution services offer the option to set a future release date, allowing you to plan a marketing campaign around your release. After submission, it can take a few days to a few weeks for your music to go live on Apple Music.
Once your music is live on Apple Music, promote it through social media, email marketing, and other channels to reach a wide audience. Engage with your listeners, and encourage them to share and add your music to their playlists.
Spotify is a dominant force in the music streaming industry, with millions of active users worldwide. Becoming an artist on Spotify is a critical step in building your music career. Here’s how you can achieve that:
Similar to Apple Music, you cannot upload music directly to Spotify. You need to work with a digital music distributor. Some well-known distributors include DistroKid, Amuse, and SoundOn.
Once your music is distributed to Spotify, you can claim and verify your artist profile through Spotify for Artists. This tool allows you to manage your profile, track your performance statistics, and engage with your audience. Verification also gives you a blue checkmark next to your artist name, adding credibility to your profile.
Use Spotify for Artists to customize your profile. Add a bio, profile picture, and cover photo that represent your brand. Include links to your social media accounts and website. A well-curated profile can attract more listeners and followers.
Playlists are a crucial discovery tool on Spotify. Pitch your upcoming releases to Spotify’s playlist curators using the Spotify for Artists dashboard. Focus on providing accurate and compelling information about your release to increase your chances of being included in popular playlists.
Promote your music on Spotify to gain followers and streams. Share your Spotify links on social media, YouTube, and other platforms. Engaging with your audience and collaborating with other artists can also boost your visibility on Spotify.
Here are some additional tips that can help you succeed on Apple Music and Spotify:
Regularly release new music to keep your audience engaged. Consistent releases can help you maintain momentum and grow your fanbase over time.
Accompany your releases with high-quality music videos. Visual content can attract more attention and provide an additional avenue for promoting your music.
Collaborate with other artists to expand your reach. Collaborative projects allow you to tap into each other’s fanbases and increase your exposure.
Connect with your listeners through social media, live streams, and fan interactions. Building a strong relationship with your audience can lead to loyal supporters who actively promote your music.
Use the analytics tools provided by Apple Music and Spotify to understand your audience demographics, song performance, and listening habits. This data can help you make informed decisions about your music and marketing strategies.
Getting your music on Apple Music and Spotify is an essential step in establishing yourself as a professional artist. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully post your music on these platforms and start building a global fanbase. Remember to consistently release new content, engage with your audience, and utilize the tools available to you for maximum exposure.
Ready to take the next step in your music career? Register as a SoundOn artist today and unlock the potential of your music.