How to Get Your Music on Streaming Platforms: The Simple Guide
In today’s digital age, getting your music on streaming platforms is essential for reaching a global audience. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music offer incredible opportunities to not just make money from your music but to be discovered by new fans organically. In this simple guide we will walk you through the process of getting your music on the worlds top DSP’s, ensuring that your tracks are heard by millions of listeners worldwide.
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Step 1: Prepare Your Music
Where do we start? The music, please don’t drop your music if its not polished! Make sure that your tracks have good sound quality. There is no excuse for this. Half of your current favorite songs were recorded in a living room. So make sure your new banger is mixed and mastered right. Remember this is your first impression to potential listeners.
Step 2: Choose a Digital Distribution Service
To get your music on streaming platforms, you need a digital distributor. These services act as intermediaries, sending your music to various streaming platforms. The only way around this step is to start your own distro and build connections with each streaming service. Oh and probably a couple million bucks. But you’re starting out so here are the most popular distributors:
- DistroKid: Known for its fast distribution and annual subscription model.
- TuneCore: Offers comprehensive services including publishing administration.
- CD Baby: Provides one-time fee distribution and additional services like physical CD sales.
- Unite Masters: A record Label In your pocket.
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Step 3: Create an Account with Your Chosen Distributor
Once you picked the Distro you want to use; create an account. Just a heads up, this isn’t free. You’re in the music game, where everything will cost you something.
Step 4: Upload Your Music and Metadata
Now , after setting up your account, you’ll need to upload your music files along with metadata. Metadata is basically information like song title, artist name, album name, genre, and release date. Make sure this information is accurate, as it helps listeners find your music.
Step 5: Design Your Cover Art
Your cover art is crucial for making a strong visual impression. Most distributors require a minimum resolution of 3000×3000 pixels. Make sure your artwork is original and professionally designed. If you’re not a designer, consider hiring one or using online design tools like Canva.
Step 6: Set Your Release Date
Decide on a release date for your music. Most distributors allow you to schedule a release date in advance. Which we highly recommend scheduling your releases in advance. This can help with marketing and promotional activities.
Step 7: Distribute Your Music
With all the details finalized, it’s time to distribute your music. Your distributor will handle the process of sending your tracks to various streaming platforms. This can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, so plan accordingly.
Step 8: Promote Your Music
Ok, Now that you have your music and artwork loaded up to your distro its time for your marketing plan to become action. Think social media, music blogs, physical promotion items, and etc. We have a new in depth guide on How to market you music dropping soon.
Conclusion
Getting your music on streaming platforms is a massive step in your music career. By following these steps, you can ensure that your tracks are professionally distributed and ready to reach a global audience. Remember, the key to success is not just getting your music out there but also actively promoting it.
By following this guide, you’re well on your way to sharing your music with the world. Happy streaming!
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