How to Put Your Songs on Apple Music & Spotify

With the rise of digital streaming platforms, getting your music on Apple Music and Spotify has become a crucial step for any artist looking to reach a global audience. These platforms offer incredible opportunities for artists to expand their fan base and generate income through streaming royalties. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to get your music on Apple Music and Spotify and discuss how music distribution platforms like SoundOn can help streamline this process.

Why Distribute Your Music on Apple Music and Spotify?

Apple Music and Spotify are two of the largest digital streaming platforms globally, collectively boasting hundreds of millions of active users. By having your music available on these platforms, you can:

• Reach a Broad Audience: Access millions of listeners worldwide.
• Generate Royalties: Earn money every time your song is streamed.
• Increase Exposure: Enhance your chances of being discovered by new fans and industry professionals.

Steps to Put Your Song on Apple Music

To get your music on Apple Music, follow these steps:

1. Select a Music Distribution Platform

Apple Music does not accept direct submissions from artists. You need to use a music distribution service like SoundOn, Tunecore, CD Baby, and others, which have established partnerships with Apple Music. These services will handle the submission process for you.

2. Prepare Your Music

Ensure your music files are high-quality and professionally mixed and mastered. You will also need to gather essential metadata, such as song titles, artist name, and album artwork.

3. Create an Account with Your Chosen Distributor

Sign up for an account with your selected distributor. This usually involves providing personal information and agreeing to their terms and conditions.

4. Upload Your Music and Metadata

Using the distributor’s platform, upload your music files along with the necessary metadata. This information is crucial as it helps listeners and curators find your songs.

5. Set a Release Date

Choose a release date for your music. It is advisable to select a date at least a few weeks in advance to give the distribution platform enough time to process and distribute your music.

6. Submit for Distribution

Once everything is uploaded and ready, you can submit your music for distribution. Your distributor will then take care of getting your music on Apple Music.

Steps to Put Your Song on Spotify

Similar to Apple Music, Spotify requires you to use a music distribution platform to get your songs on its platform. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Choose a Music Distribution Platform

Select a reputable music distribution service like SoundOn, Distrokid, ONErpm, and others. These platforms have the necessary agreements with Spotify to distribute your music.

2. Ensure Your Music is Ready

Just like for Apple Music, your tracks should be high-quality and professionally finished. Prepare all the requisite metadata, including song titles, artist name, genre, and album artwork.

3. Register with the Distributor

Create an account with your chosen music distributor by providing the necessary details and accepting the service's terms.

4. Upload Your Music and Metadata

Through the distributor’s online portal, upload your music files and the associated metadata. This is an essential step to make sure your music is correctly listed on Spotify’s platform.

5. Set a Launch Date

Select a release date, keeping in mind the processing time required by the distributor. It is wise to set the date a few weeks from the upload day to ensure smooth release.

6. Submit Your Music for Distribution

Once all your music and metadata are uploaded correctly, submit your work for distribution. The distributor will handle the delivery to Spotify.

Why Use a Distribution Platform Like SoundOn?

Using a distribution platform such as SoundOn offers several advantages:

• Streamlined Process: These platforms simplify the submission process, ensuring that your music reaches multiple streaming services efficiently.
• Global Reach: Distribution services have partnerships with several streaming platforms, maximizing your music’s reach.
• Data Insights: Many distribution services provide analytics and reporting, helping you understand your audience and performance better.

Maximizing Your Music’s Potential

Getting your music on Apple Music and Spotify is just the beginning. To maximize your music’s potential, consider the following tips:

Create a Marketing Strategy

Plan how you will promote your release across social media and other platforms. Engage with your audience and create excitement around your launch.

Pitch to Playlists

Work on getting your music featured on playlists curated by Spotify and Apple Music editors. Playlisted tracks receive more streams and wider exposure.

Engage with Your Fans

Build a loyal fan base by regularly engaging with your listeners through social media, live performances, and exclusive content.

Utilize Data Insights

Leverage the data insights provided by your distribution platform to understand your audience's demographics, preferences, and listening habits, and adjust your strategies accordingly.

Conclusion

Putting your songs on Apple Music and Spotify is an essential step for any modern musician. By following the steps outlined above and utilizing a reliable music distribution platform like SoundOn, you can ensure that your music reaches a broad audience and maximizes its potential. Start your journey today and share your music with the world!