Can You Get Music on Spotify Without a Distributor?

As an independent artist, gaining exposure on Spotify can significantly boost your career. However, many musicians wonder if it's possible to get music on Spotify without using a distributor. Let's explore this avenue and discuss the types of music releases: LP, EP, and album.

Understanding Spotify's Distribution Requirements

One of the critical questions for artists is “how to get music on Spotify without a distributor”. To set the record straight, Spotify requires a third-party distributor to manage music submissions. This means that directly uploading music to Spotify without a distributor is, unfortunately, not an option. Distributors handle the technical and legal complexities to ensure your music is delivered correctly and compensated properly.

Why Use a Distributor Like SoundOn?

Using a distributor offers several advantages, including global reach and professional handling of your tracks. SoundOn is an all-in-one platform that not only helps with distribution but also supports your marketing efforts, helping you find new fans through platforms like TikTok and exclusive partners like CapCut.

Steps to Get Your Music on Spotify

While you can't bypass a distributor to get your music on Spotify, the process is relatively straightforward. Here are the key steps:

1. Choose a Distributor: Select a reliable distributor that fits your needs, such as SoundOn.
2. Create an Account: Sign up and create an account on the distributor's platform.
3. Upload Your Music: Prepare your music files and metadata (album art, track info) and upload them to the distributor’s platform.
4. Submit for Distribution: The distributor will handle the submission and ensure your music appears on Spotify.
5. Promote Your Music: Utilize the distributor's marketing tools to promote your music to reach a broader audience.

Understanding LP, EP, and Album

To effectively manage your music release strategy, it's essential to understand the differences between an LP, EP, and an album:

LP (Long Play)

An LP, or Long Play, typically comprises more tracks than an EP and offers a full-length listening experience. LPs usually contain 10-12 tracks and have a total runtime of over 30 minutes.

EP (Extended Play)

An EP, or Extended Play, is a music release that is longer than a single but shorter than an LP. Generally, EPs contain 4-6 tracks and have a total runtime of about 15-30 minutes. EPs are a great way to release a collection of songs without committing to a full album.

Album

An album is a collection of tracks intended to be released together and is often conceptually cohesive. Albums can vary in length but typically contain at least 8 tracks, providing a substantial listening experience.

Final Thoughts

While it may be tempting to look for ways to get your music on Spotify without a distributor, using a distribution service ensures your music gets the professional handling it deserves. Platforms like SoundOn offer invaluable tools and support that can help you build a successful music career.

Understanding the differences between releasing an LP, EP, or album will also help you plan your releases more effectively and cater to your audience’s listening habits.