What is an EP in music? How to upload songs to Spotify?

In the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, terms like EP, LP, and single are commonly thrown around. For those aspiring to make a mark in the industry, understanding these terms can be crucial. An EP, or Extended Play, is a music recording that contains more tracks than a single but is too short to qualify as a full-length album (LP). EPs are typically 4-6 tracks long and serve as a middle ground between a single and an album.

The concept of an EP dates back to the early days of vinyl records, where it was seen as a cost-effective way to release new music without the commitment of a full album. Today, EPs are often used by artists to showcase their versatility and to keep their audience engaged between larger releases.

Why Release an EP?

Releasing an EP has several benefits for both upcoming and established artists. Here are some reasons why artists choose to release EPs:

• Cost-Effective: Producing an EP requires less financial investment compared to a full-length album.
• Creative Freedom: Artists can experiment with different styles and genres within the EP.
• Audience Engagement: Frequent releases keep the audience engaged and build anticipation for future projects.
• Market Testing: It allows the artist to test the market response to new songs before committing to a full album.

Steps to Upload Songs to Spotify

Once you've created your EP, the next step is to get it on music streaming platforms like Spotify. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to upload your songs to Spotify:

1. Choose a Music Distributor

To get your music on Spotify, you'll need to go through a music distributor. Distributors like SoundOn help you upload your music to Spotify and other digital streaming platforms. They handle the technical aspects, distribution, and even some promotional tasks.

2. Create an Account

Register an account with your chosen distributor. For example, you can sign up with SoundOn to start the process.

3. Prepare Your Music Files

Make sure your music files are in the correct format. Most distributors, including SoundOn, require high-quality audio files in formats like WAV or FLAC. Also, ensure you have the correct metadata, including song titles, artist names, and genre information.

4. Upload Your Music

Follow the distributor's instructions to upload your music. This process usually involves uploading audio files, entering metadata, and setting the release date.

5. Distribute to Platforms

Once your music is uploaded, the distributor will distribute it to Spotify and other platforms. This process can take a few days to a few weeks, so plan accordingly. During this time, you can prepare promotional materials to announce your EP's release.

6. Promote Your Release

Promote your EP through social media, email newsletters, and other marketing channels. Utilize platforms like TikTok to create engaging content that can help spread the word about your new release.

Why Choose SoundOn for Music Distribution?

SoundOn is a comprehensive platform designed to help artists build their careers and reach new fans. By using SoundOn for your music distribution, you gain access to exclusive partners like CapCut and integration with TikTok, which can significantly boost your promotional efforts.

With SoundOn, you get more than just distribution; you also get marketing support, analytical tools, and the opportunity to pitch your music to DSP curators, increasing your chances of getting playlisted on Spotify. Being playlisted can dramatically increase your streams, helping you grow your fanbase and income.

Conclusion

Understanding what an EP in music is and how to effectively upload your songs to Spotify can be a game-changer for your music career. By leveraging platforms like SoundOn, you can simplify the distribution process and maximize your promotional efforts. Whether you're an emerging artist or an established name, releasing an EP and getting it on Spotify is a crucial step in your musical journey.

If you're ready to take the next step, consider registering with SoundOn today to start distributing your music and reaching new heights in your career.