What's an EP and How to Setup a Spotify Page?

For those new to the music industry, terms like EP, LP, and single can be quite confusing. Among these, the term "EP" stands out. So, what's an EP in music? EP stands for "Extended Play." It's a collection of songs that is longer than a single but shorter than a full-length album (LP). Typically, an EP contains 4 to 6 tracks and lasts around 15 to 30 minutes. EPs offer artists a flexible format to showcase more variety without the commitment required for a full album.

Historically, EPs were created to provide a more affordable alternative to full albums, giving fans a taste of what an artist has to offer. Nowadays, EPs are popular among emerging artists looking to build their audience or established artists wanting to release new material between albums.

How to Setup a Page on Spotify

Now that you understand what an EP is, let's explore how you can set up your artist page on Spotify. Having your music available on Spotify is crucial for reaching a larger audience and increasing your streaming numbers.

1. Sign Up on Spotify for Artists

The first step is to sign up for Spotify for Artists. This platform provides you with the tools to manage your artist profile, understand your audience, and gain insights into your music's performance. To get started:

• Visit the Spotify for Artists website.
• Click on the "Get Access" button and log in with your existing Spotify account or create a new one.
• Claim your artist profile by searching for your name or your release on Spotify.
• Verify your profile by connecting through your distributor or providing additional information if necessary.

2. Customize Your Profile

Once your profile is verified, you can start customizing it. This includes:

• Uploading a high-quality profile picture and header image.
• Writing a compelling bio that tells your story and connects with your audience.
• Adding links to your social media profiles and your official website.

3. Add Music to Your Profile

The next step is to add your music. If you are releasing an EP, you'll need to distribute it through a platform like SoundOn. SoundOn ensures that your music is not only available on Spotify but also across other digital streaming platforms, giving you maximum exposure. Here’s how to add your music:

• Create an account on SoundOn.
• Upload your tracks, ensuring all metadata, including titles, credits, and artwork, is accurate.
• Distribute your music to Spotify through SoundOn, and it will appear on your artist page once processed.

4. Engage with Your Fans

With your Spotify page set up and your music uploaded, it's essential to engage with your fans regularly. Spotify for Artists allows you to:

• Share updates and promote your releases using the "Artist Pick" feature.
• Create and share playlists that reflect your musical tastes or influences.
• Monitor your performance and audience demographics to tailor your promotional efforts effectively.

5. Pitch Your Music to Spotify Playlists

One of the most effective ways to increase your streams on Spotify is by getting your tracks featured on curated playlists. Spotify for Artists provides a pitching tool to submit your new releases directly to Spotify's playlist curators. Here’s how you can pitch your music:

• Go to the Music tab in Spotify for Artists.
• Select the release you want to pitch.
• Fill out the submission form with all relevant details about your track and its promotional plans.
• Submit your pitch for consideration.

Being "playlisted" can significantly boost your visibility, leading to more streams, followers, and opportunities in the music industry.

Conclusion

Understanding the role of an EP in music and setting up a Spotify page are critical steps for any artist looking to grow their presence and fan base. An EP allows you to showcase your talent in a manageable format, while a well-managed Spotify page ensures your music reaches listeners worldwide. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively navigate the music distribution landscape and maximize your potential for success.

If you're ready to take your music career to the next level, consider signing up on SoundOn and start distributing your music today!