What is an EP in Music? How to Upload Songs to Spotify?

The music industry is full of terms that might seem confusing to new artists. One such term is "EP." Understanding what an EP is and how to leverage it can significantly impact your music career. Additionally, knowing how to distribute your music on platforms like Spotify is crucial for gaining visibility and expanding your fan base. In this article, we will break down what an EP is and provide a step-by-step guide on how to upload your songs to Spotify.

What is an EP in Music?

An EP, or Extended Play, is a collection of music that is longer than a single but shorter than a full-length album. Typically, an EP contains three to five tracks and lasts about 15-30 minutes. EPs serve several purposes in the music industry:

• Introduction: EPs are often used by new artists to introduce themselves to the market. They provide a taste of the artist's style and can attract a listener's interest.
• Promotion: Established artists might release an EP to promote an upcoming album or to maintain momentum between full-length releases.
• Experimentation: EPs allow artists to experiment with new sounds and concepts without committing to a full album.

For artists looking to make their mark, releasing an EP can be a strategic move. It requires less time and resources compared to a full album, yet it provides enough content to showcase your talent and artistry.

How to Upload Songs to Spotify

With millions of users worldwide, Spotify is one of the best platforms for artists to distribute their music. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to upload your music to Spotify:

Step 1: Choose a Music Distributor

Spotify does not allow artists to upload music directly to their platform. Instead, you need to go through a music distributor. Distributors like SoundOn, DistroKid, CD Baby, and others act as intermediaries, helping you get your music onto Spotify and other digital streaming platforms (DSPs).

Step 2: Create an Account with the Distributor

Once you’ve chosen a distributor, the next step is to create an account. This usually involves providing some personal details and setting up payment methods for collecting royalties.

Step 3: Prepare Your Music Files

Your music should be in high-quality format, typically 16-bit, 44.1 kHz WAV files. Make sure your tracks are properly named and organized, as this will ensure smooth processing and distribution.

Step 4: Upload Your Music

Log in to your distributor’s platform and follow the instructions to upload your tracks. You will also need to provide relevant metadata like song titles, artist name, release date, genre, and cover art. Ensure your cover art is square and high-resolution (3000x3000 pixels is recommended).

Step 5: Set Release Date and Distribution

Choose your release date. It's wise to plan the release date at least a few weeks in advance to allow time for promotional preparations. Select the platforms you want your music to be distributed to, which will generally include Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, and others.

Step 6: Promote Your Music

Once your music is up and available on Spotify, promotion is key. Use social media, your website, email lists, and other marketing tools to get the word out. Consider pitching your song to playlist curators on Spotify to increase visibility and streams.

Conclusion

Releasing an EP can be an excellent strategy for both new and seasoned artists. It allows you to connect with your audience, experiment with new sounds, and build anticipation for future projects. Meanwhile, platforms like Spotify offer a vast arena to showcase your talent to a global audience. By using reliable distributors such as SoundOn, you can ensure your music reaches the right ears and helps you grow your fan base exponentially.

Ready to take the next step in your music career? Join SoundOn today and start sharing your music with the world!