How to Upload Songs to Spotify: EP vs Album

As an emerging artist or an established musician, understanding how to get your music on major platforms like Spotify is crucial. This guide will walk you through the steps to upload your songs and help you decide whether to release your collection as an EP or an album.

Understanding the Basics of Music Upload

First, let’s break down the steps involved in uploading your music to Spotify. Unlike YouTube or SoundCloud, where artists can directly upload their tracks, getting your songs on Spotify requires the use of a music distribution service. Platforms like SoundOn, Tunecore, DistroKid, and others help artists distribute their music to digital streaming services (DSPs) including Spotify.

Step-by-Step Guide to Uploading Songs to Spotify

Step 1: Prepare Your Music Files

Ensure your music files are in the correct format. Spotify accepts tracks in the following formats: WAV, FLAC, AIFF, and others with a high resolution of 16-bit / 44.1 kHz.

Step 2: Choose a Music Distributor

Select a reliable music distribution service. For instance, SoundOn offers comprehensive services that assist with everything from tracking analytics to managing royalties.

Step 3: Upload Your Music

After selecting your distributor, create an account, and follow their specific instructions to upload your music. You’ll need to provide important information such as artist name, track title, genre, and release date.

Step 4: Metadata and Album Art

Ensure that all metadata is correctly entered, and upload high-quality album art that meets Spotify’s specifications. Incorrect metadata or low-quality cover art can delay your song’s release.

Step 5: Submit and Promote

Once everything is set, submit your music for review. Use the waiting period to promote your upcoming release on social media and other marketing platforms to build anticipation.

EP vs Album: What’s the Difference?

Now that you know how to upload your songs to Spotify, the next step is deciding whether to release your collection as an EP or an album. This decision can impact your marketing strategy and how listeners perceive your music.

What is an EP?

An EP, or Extended Play, typically consists of 4-6 tracks and is shorter than an album but longer than a single. EPs are a great way to showcase a variety of songs without the pressure of creating a full album. They are ideal for new artists looking to make a quick impact or for established artists wanting to release new material between albums.

What is an Album?

An album usually contains 7 or more tracks and has a longer playtime. Albums allow artists to explore themes in greater depth and offer a more comprehensive experience to listeners. They require more resources and time to produce but can make a significant impression in the music industry.

When to Choose an EP

Consider releasing an EP if you:

• Want to introduce your music without committing to a full album.
• Have a few strong tracks ready and want to test listener reactions.
• Are looking to maintain engagement between major releases.

When to Choose an Album

Opt for an album if you:

• Have a cohesive collection of songs that tell a story or explore a theme.
• Want to make a substantial debut or follow up your previous releases.
• Have the resources to produce and promote a larger body of work.

Conclusion

Whether you decide to release an EP or an album, understanding the distinctions and following the correct steps to upload your music to Spotify can greatly amplify your reach. Utilizing services like SoundOn can ensure a smooth distribution process, allowing you to focus on what you do best—creating music.

Ready to share your music with the world? Sign up with SoundOn today and take the first step towards growing your music career on digital streaming platforms.