How to Upload Songs to SoundCloud and Spotify

As a musician, getting your tracks onto major platforms like SoundCloud and Spotify is essential for reaching a global audience. These platforms offer massive potential for new artist exposure, fanbase growth, and income generation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to successfully upload your music to both SoundCloud and Spotify, covering all the essential details.

Uploading Your Song to SoundCloud

Follow these simple steps to get your music on SoundCloud:

1. Create an Account or Log In

If you don’t already have a SoundCloud account, you’ll need to create one. Go to SoundCloud and sign up using your email address or link it with a social media account. Once you’re signed up, log in to your account.

2. Navigate to the Upload Page

After logging in, click on the “Upload” button in the top-right corner of the homepage. This will take you to the upload page.

3. Upload Your Track

Click the “Choose file to upload” button and select the audio file you want to upload from your computer. Make sure your file meets SoundCloud’s upload requirements, which include a maximum file size of 4GB and supported formats like MP3, WAV, AIFF, and FLAC.

4. Add Track Details

Once your file is uploaded, you’ll need to add details about your track. This includes the title, genre, tags, and a description. You can also select whether you want the track to be public or private. Adding accurate tags and a detailed description helps improve your track’s discoverability.

5. Customize Your Track

SoundCloud offers several customization options, including the ability to upload custom artwork for your track and enable or disable downloads. Take advantage of these features to make your track more appealing and shareable.

6. Save and Share

Once you’ve added all the necessary details and made your customizations, click “Save” to publish your track. Your music is now live on SoundCloud and ready to be shared with the world! Make sure to promote your track on social media and other platforms to maximize its reach.

Uploading Your Song to Spotify

Spotify is one of the biggest music streaming platforms in the world, and getting your music on it can significantly boost your exposure. However, unlike SoundCloud, you cannot directly upload your music to Spotify. You’ll need to use a music distribution service. Here's how you can do it:

1. Choose a Music Distribution Service

There are several music distribution services that can help you get your music on Spotify, including SoundOn, Tunecore, Distrokid, CD Baby, ONErpm, LANDR, Indiefy, and Amuse. For this guide, we’ll focus on using SoundOn.

2. Create a SoundOn Account

Go to the SoundOn website and sign up for an account. You’ll need to provide some basic information and agree to their terms and conditions.

3. Prepare Your Music for Upload

Before uploading your music, ensure that it meets Spotify’s quality standards. Your audio files should be in WAV or MP3 format and should be properly mixed and mastered. Additionally, make sure you have high-quality artwork for your album or single.

4. Upload Your Music to SoundOn

Once your account is set up and with your music ready, navigate to the upload page on SoundOn. Follow the prompts to upload your audio files and artwork. You’ll also need to provide detailed information about your release, including the title, genre, and release date.

5. Select Your Distribution Platforms

When uploading your music via SoundOn, you can select the platforms you want your music to be distributed to. Ensure you select Spotify as one of these platforms.

6. Set Up Pre-Save and Release Strategies

Creating a pre-save campaign can help build hype around your release. SoundOn provides tools for setting up pre-save links that you can share with your audience before the official release date. Additionally, make sure to plan a strategic release date and promotional activities around the launch.

7. Release and Promote Your Music

Once all the details are filled in and the files uploaded, submit your release for distribution. SoundOn will handle the rest, ensuring your music gets onto Spotify and other selected platforms. Don’t forget to promote your release extensively to maximize its reach and impact.

Conclusion

Uploading your music to platforms like SoundCloud and Spotify is a crucial step in building your career as a musician. While the processes for each platform vary, both offer unique opportunities for reaching new fans and growing your audience. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure your music is properly uploaded and optimized for maximum exposure. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your reach, platforms like SoundOn can be valuable tools in your music distribution strategy. Ready to make a splash in the music world? Register as a SoundOn artist today and start amplifying your music career!