How to Upload Music to YouTube and Spotify?

If you're a musician looking to expand your audience, knowing how to upload your songs to major platforms like YouTube and Spotify is essential. These platforms are among the most popular places for listeners to discover new music. This guide will walk you through the steps to upload your music efficiently.

Uploading Your Music to YouTube

YouTube is one of the most accessible platforms for sharing music. Here's a step-by-step approach:

1. Set Up a YouTube Channel

Before you can upload any music, you'll need a YouTube account with a Channel. Follow these steps:

• Log in to YouTube with your Google account.
• Click on your profile picture at the top right corner and select "Create a channel."
• Follow the prompts to set up your artist or band channel.

2. Prepare Your Music Files

Ensure your audio files are in a format that YouTube supports, such as MP3 or WAV. Additionally, having a simple video format (like a static image or your album art) can make your upload more engaging.

3. Upload Your Music

• Click the “Create” button (camera icon) at the top right corner.
• Select “Upload videos” from the dropdown menu.
• Drag and drop your video or upload directly from your computer.
• Fill in the video title, description, and tags to improve discoverability.
• Choose a thumbnail that represents your music well.

4. Optimize for SEO

Use keywords in your video title, description, and tags that your target audience might search for. For example, include the genre of your music, mood, and similar artists.

5. Publish and Promote

Once your video is uploaded, click “Publish.” Share your new release on social media, and embed the video on your website to drive traffic.

These steps ensure your music is not only available on YouTube but also easy for listeners to find.

Uploading Your Music to Spotify

Spotify has become a go-to platform for streaming music. Here’s how you can get your music uploaded to Spotify:

1. Choose a Distribution Service

Unlike YouTube, you cannot upload songs directly to Spotify. You need a music distribution service. Some popular options include SoundOn, Tunecore, Distrokid, CD Baby, ONErpm, LANDR, Indiefy, and Amuse.

2. Sign Up with the Distributor

Create an account with your chosen distributor. For SoundOn, you can sign up here.

3. Prepare Your Music and Metadata

Ensure you have high-quality recordings of your tracks in either WAV or FLAC format. You’ll also need to provide metadata like song title, artist name, album name, release date, and genre.

4. Upload Your Music

• Log in to your distribution account.
• Follow the prompts to upload your tracks.
• Fill in the necessary metadata fields accurately.
• Upload album art that meets the distributor’s specifications.

5. Choose Your Release Date

It's essential to plan your release date carefully. Set it one month ahead to allow time for playlist consideration and press coverage.

6. Submit for Playlist Consideration

Spotify's playlist curators can significantly boost your streams. To maximize your chances:

• Go to your Spotify for Artists account.
• Locate the upcoming release in the “Music” tab.
• Click on “Submit a Song” and follow the instructions to provide relevant information about your track.

7. Promote Your Release

Use social media platforms and email lists to promote your new release. Engage your audience with behind-the-scenes content, teasers, and countdowns.

Uploading music to both YouTube and Spotify is a critical step in reaching a wider audience. By following these steps, you'll make sure your music is professionally presented and easily discoverable.

Why Use SoundOn for Spotify Distribution?

SoundOn offers comprehensive marketing and distribution services. By providing powerful tools to promote your music on platforms like TikTok and exclusive partners such as CapCut, SoundOn helps you build a loyal fan base and more.

Register as a SoundOn artist today and elevate your music career. Get started here.