What is an EP & How Do You Get a Song on Spotify?

In the fast-paced world of music, it's crucial for artists to stay informed about industry terminology and techniques. Two common questions that often arise are: what is an EP and how do you get a song on Spotify? In this article, we will delve into these topics, offering insights and practical advice. Understanding these concepts can significantly elevate an artist's career by leveraging music distribution and streaming platforms effectively.

Understanding What an EP Is

An EP, short for "Extended Play," is a collection of music that is longer than a single but shorter than a full album. Typically, an EP consists of three to six tracks and has a total playtime of around 15 to 30 minutes. While the precise length can vary, the concept of an EP serves as a versatile format for artists to release new music, experiment with different sounds, and engage their audience without committing to a full album.

Historically, EPs gained popularity in the vinyl era when they were used as a bridge between singles and full-length albums. In the digital age, they offer a cost-effective and less time-consuming option for artists to maintain their presence in the music scene. For up-and-coming artists, releasing an EP can be a strategic move to build momentum and gather feedback from their audience before investing in a full album.

How to Get a Song on Spotify

Getting a song on Spotify involves a series of steps, from producing your track to ensuring it gains visibility on the platform. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Create High-Quality Music

The first and most crucial step is to create high-quality music that resonates with your audience. Invest time in writing, recording, and producing your track. Collaborate with experienced producers and sound engineers if necessary. Remember, the quality of your music is directly related to its potential success on streaming platforms.

2. Choose a Reputable Music Distributor

To get your song on Spotify, you will need to work with a music distributor. Distributors act as intermediaries between artists and streaming platforms. They handle the logistics of uploading your music and ensuring it meets the platform's requirements. Popular distributors include SoundOn, DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby. SoundOn is an excellent choice for distributing your music globally and maximizing your reach.

3. Prepare Your Metadata

Before submitting your track, make sure you have all the necessary metadata ready. This includes:

• Song title
• Artist name
• Album or EP title (if applicable)
• Genre
• Release date
• Lyrics (if available)

Accurate metadata helps listeners find your music and ensures you receive proper credit for your work.

4. Create Eye-Catching Cover Art

Your cover art is the first impression listeners will have of your music, so make it count! Invest in professional design or use high-quality images that reflect your brand and the essence of your music. Platforms like Spotify have specific guidelines for cover art dimensions and quality, so be sure to follow those to avoid any delays in your release.

5. Submit Your Music

Once you have everything prepared, it's time to submit your music through your chosen distributor. The submission process involves uploading your audio files, cover art, and metadata. Each distributor will have its own set of instructions and guidelines, so follow them carefully to ensure a smooth submission.

6. Promote Your Release

Promotion is key to gaining visibility and attracting listeners to your song. Utilize social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Twitter to create buzz around your release. Engage with your followers by sharing behind-the-scenes content, snippets of your track, and engaging visuals. Consider hiring a PR professional or utilizing influencer marketing to reach a broader audience.

7. Pitch to Spotify Playlists

One of the most effective ways to increase your streams and gain exposure is by getting your song featured on Spotify playlists. Here’s how to pitch your song to Spotify:

• Use Spotify for Artists: Ensure you have a verified Spotify for Artists account. This gives you access to valuable analytics and tools that can help you pitch your music effectively.
• Plan Ahead: Submit your song for playlist consideration at least a few weeks before its release date. This gives Spotify’s editorial team enough time to review your submission.
• Select the Right Genre: When submitting your track, categorize it accurately by genre. This helps curators understand where your music fits within Spotify's ecosystem.
• Provide Context: Include a compelling pitch that tells the story behind your song. Highlight interesting aspects, such as the inspiration behind the track, any notable collaborations, and its significance to you as an artist.

Beyond Spotify’s curated playlists, there are numerous independent playlist curators you can reach out to. Building relationships with these curators can help you secure placements on user-generated playlists, which can also drive significant streams.

Leveraging SoundOn for Music Distribution

By now, it’s clear that a strategic approach to music distribution and promotion is essential for any artist looking to thrive in the digital music landscape. Platforms like SoundOn provide an all-in-one solution for artists to distribute their music globally, promote their tracks on TikTok, and reach new fans through exclusive partners like CapCut. By registering as a SoundOn artist, you can access a comprehensive suite of tools designed to maximize your music's reach and impact.

SoundOn offers features such as detailed analytics, royalty tracking, and promotional support, allowing you to focus on what matters most: creating and sharing your music. With its user-friendly interface and extensive network, SoundOn empowers artists at all stages of their careers to achieve their goals.

Conclusion

In summary, understanding what an EP is and learning how to get your song on Spotify are crucial steps for any modern musician. By producing high-quality music, working with a reliable distributor like SoundOn, and effectively promoting your releases, you can increase your chances of success in the competitive music industry. Remember to leverage the power of playlists and take advantage of platforms that offer comprehensive distribution and marketing tools. With the right strategy and dedication, your music can reach a global audience and make a lasting impact.