The digital age has revolutionized the music industry, making it easier than ever for independent artists to share their music with the world. Two of the most prominent platforms for music distribution are iTunes and Spotify. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of uploading your songs on iTunes and signing up as an artist on Spotify. By following these steps, you can get your music heard by a global audience and take your career to the next level.
iTunes, now part of the Apple Music ecosystem, has long been a key player in the digital music market. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get your music on iTunes:
Apple Music/iTunes does not accept direct uploads from independent artists. To get your music on iTunes, you'll need to use a music distributor. Some of the well-known distributors include SoundOn, TuneCore, and CD Baby. These distributors will help you get your tracks onto various digital platforms, including iTunes.
Select a distributor that meets your needs and sign up for an account. For instance, you can register as a SoundOn artist and follow their straightforward onboarding process.
Ensure your music files are high-quality WAV or AIFF formats. You’ll also need artwork that meets iTunes requirements, typically a square image at least 1400 x 1400 pixels in size. The artwork should be clear, relevant to your music, and free from any advertisements or pricing details.
Once your account is set up and your files are ready, start the upload process. You will need to provide meta-data such as song titles, artist name, album name, and genre. Double-check all the details to ensure they are correct.
After uploading your tracks and entering all required information, submit your music for distribution. The distributor will review your submission and send it to iTunes and other platforms. It can take a few days to a few weeks for your music to go live. Keep checking the status on your distributor's dashboard.
Spotify is one of the most popular music streaming platforms in the world, offering massive exposure for artists. Signing up as an artist is a straightforward process:
Similar to iTunes, you can't upload music directly to Spotify without a distributor. Use a service like SoundOn, TuneCore, or Distrokid to distribute your music to Spotify. Register for an account with your chosen distributor and follow their instructions to upload your tracks.
Once your music is live on Spotify, you can claim your artist profile through Spotify for Artists. Spotify for Artists gives you control over your profile and provides insights into your listeners' demographics and engagement.
To claim your artist profile, go to the Spotify for Artists website and click "Get Access." Follow the steps to verify your identity. You'll need to provide information such as your artist name, the distributor you used, and links to your music on Spotify.
Once verified, you can customize your Spotify profile. Add a bio, profile picture, social media links, and tour dates. A complete and engaging profile can attract more listeners and followers.
Spotify for Artists offers various tools to help you promote your music. You can pitch new releases to Spotify's playlist curators, track your performance with real-time stats, and gain insights into your audience's listening habits. Use these tools to fine-tune your marketing strategies and grow your fanbase.
Choosing a reliable music distributor is crucial for success on platforms like iTunes and Spotify. SoundOn offers numerous benefits for independent artists:
If you're ready to take your music career to the next level, consider signing up with SoundOn to distribute your tracks. Register as a SoundOn artist today and start reaching a global audience.
By following these steps to upload your music on iTunes and sign up for Spotify, you'll be well on your way to building a successful music career. Leverage the power of these platforms to get your music heard and grow your fanbase.