How To Upload Songs on Spotify?

As an independent musician, getting your songs up on Spotify can be a game-changer. With millions of users streaming daily, Spotify offers a huge potential to grow your fanbase and generate revenue. This article will explore the pros and cons of two popular distribution platforms, TuneCore and CD Baby, and guide you on how to upload your songs on Spotify.

TuneCore vs CD Baby: Which is Better for Music Distribution?

Choosing the right music distribution platform is crucial for your music career. Both TuneCore and CD Baby are well-known names in the industry, but each comes with its own set of features and pricing structures. Let's dive into the key differences between the two:

TuneCore

• Pricing: TuneCore charges a fee per release. This means that you pay for each album or single you upload, and there's a yearly renewal fee.
• Royalty Collection: TuneCore collects 100% of the sales revenue from streaming and digital sales for the artist. They do not take a percentage of your earnings.
• Additional Services: TuneCore provides a range of additional services such as publishing administration and sync licensing opportunities.

CD Baby

• Pricing: CD Baby charges a one-time fee per release, and there are no recurring fees. However, they take a 9% commission on the revenue generated from your music.
• Royalty Collection: CD Baby offers global publishing royalty collection services as part of its package, which can be convenient for many artists.
• Additional Services: CD Baby includes services like sync licensing, physical distribution (CDs and vinyl), and video monetization on platforms like YouTube.

How Do I Upload My Songs on Spotify?

Now that we've highlighted the differences between TuneCore and CD Baby, let's look at the general steps required to upload your music on Spotify. Whether you choose TuneCore, CD Baby, or another platform, the steps will be quite similar:

Step 1: Choose a Distribution Platform

The first step is to select a music distribution platform that suits your needs. Aside from TuneCore and CD Baby, there are several other options like SoundOn, which comes with exclusive benefits from partners like TikTok.

Step 2: Create an Account

Register on your chosen platform and create an account. Fill in all necessary details including your payment information, artist name, and other personal details.

Step 3: Prepare Your Music

Ensure your music files are properly formatted. Most platforms require your tracks to be in WAV or FLAC format with a minimum bit rate. Additionally, make sure you have the album artwork handy. It must meet the platform's specifications regarding size and resolution.

Step 4: Upload Your Music

Log into your account and follow the steps to upload your tracks. This usually involves submitting your song files, uploading your album artwork, and entering all the metadata (song title, album name, release date, genre, etc.).

Step 5: Choose a Release Date

Select a release date for your music. It's advisable to set the release date at least a few weeks in advance to allow for promotion and playlist pitching.

Step 6: Submit for Distribution

After reviewing all the details and making sure everything is correct, submit your music for distribution. Your chosen platform will handle the rest, making your music available on Spotify and other streaming services.

Making the Most of Your Release

Once your music is live on Spotify, it's essential to leverage all available promotional tools to boost your visibility:

• Playlist Pitching: Try to get your songs included in curated playlists. This can significantly increase your streams and attract new fans.
• Social Media Promotion: Promote your release on all your social media channels. Engage your followers with teasers, behind-the-scenes content, and countdowns to keep the excitement high.
• Engage with Your Fans: Use platforms like TikTok and Instagram to connect with your fans. Engaging content can help drive streams and build a loyal fanbase.
• Analytics: Utilize the analytics tools provided by Spotify for Artists and your distribution platform to monitor your performance, identify trends, and optimize your strategies.

SoundOn, for example, offers detailed analytics and promotional tools that can help you make data-driven decisions to enhance your music career. Taking advantage of these resources is essential for independent artists looking to thrive in the competitive music industry.

Conclusion

Choosing between TuneCore and CD Baby depends on your specific needs as an artist. Both platforms offer valuable services, and understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision. Once you've chosen the right distribution platform, uploading your songs to Spotify becomes a straightforward process. Remember, the effort doesn't stop at distribution—promoting your music effectively is key to reaching a wider audience and achieving your music career goals.

If you're ready to take your music career to the next level, consider registering as a SoundOn artist and explore the various tools and partnerships available to help you succeed.