Should I Release a Single or EP First?

Deciding whether to release a single or an EP first is a common dilemma for new artists. Understanding the differences and how they align with current music trends, particularly on platforms like TikTok, can significantly impact your music career. In this article, we'll delve into the pros and cons of each and consider how trending songs on TikTok influence the decision.

Understanding Singles and EPs

A single is a stand-alone song, often used to promote an artist and attract attention. Singles can generate excitement, focus all promotional efforts on one track, and provide a quick way to test the market. Meanwhile, an EP (Extended Play) typically contains 3-5 songs, offering a more comprehensive showcase of an artist's style and versatility.

Benefits of Releasing a Single First

• Focused Promotion: Concentrating your marketing efforts on one song can create a significant impact. Your promotional strategy will be streamlined, allowing you to build anticipation and drive listeners' attention to one focal point.
• Lower Costs: Producing a single is more cost-effective than an EP. Whether you’re an independent artist or have a tight budget, a single can be a more accessible starting point.
• Market Testing: Releasing a single allows you to gauge public interest and get feedback. It's a way to understand what resonates with your audience before investing in a larger project.

Benefits of Releasing an EP First

• Showcase Versatility: An EP provides a broader sense of your music and can demonstrate your range as an artist. It’s an excellent way to establish your sound and artistry.
• Build a Loyal Fanbase: Offering more content can help you develop a deeper connection with your audience. Fans might appreciate the multiple tracks and the narrative arc that an EP can create.
• Potential for More Revenue: With more songs, there's an increased chance of having multiple tracks that resonate with listeners, leading to more streams and higher revenue.

The Influence of TikTok Trends

TikTok has become a crucial platform for music promotion. Trending songs on TikTok can quickly catapult an unknown artist to fame. Here’s how TikTok trends can impact your decision to release a single or EP:

TikTok's Algorithm and Virality

TikTok's algorithm favors short, engaging content that encourages interaction and sharing. Singles fit well into this format because they can be easily integrated into short videos that trend on the platform.

Case Studies: Songs That Made it Big

Several artists have gained overnight success thanks to TikTok. For instance, Lil Nas X's "Old Town Road" became a cultural phenomenon largely due to its popularity on TikTok. If you have a strong single with catchy hooks or a unique sound, it may be perfect for TikTok virality.

Leveraging TikTok to Promote an EP

While singles tend to perform well on TikTok, an EP can also benefit from the platform. Each track on the EP can be strategically promoted over a period of time, creating sustained engagement. Think of each song in the EP as a potential trending sound on TikTok.

Making the Right Choice for Your Career

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are some questions to ask yourself:

• What are your goals? If you aim to quickly build hype and test the market, a single might be your best bet.
• What resources do you have? If you have the budget and creative content ready, an EP can offer more material for your audience to connect with.
• How ready are you for feedback? A single can give you a quick snapshot of public opinion, which is useful for refining your approach.

SoundOn - Your Partner in Music Distribution

No matter what you choose, having the right distribution platform is critical. SoundOn can help you distribute your music effectively and tap into platforms like TikTok and other digital streaming services. Join SoundOn today and take the next step in your music career with robust marketing and distribution support.