How to Upload Songs to Spotify
The uploading of songs to Spotify is an essential step to musicians and artists who want to connect with a wide public. With more than 500 million users active, Spotify offers an unparalleled opportunity to share your songs with people around the globe. This article will guide you through the steps to uploading your music to Spotify making sure they’re in good shape for streaming and are viewed by the people who listen to your music.
Understand Spotify’s System
Spotify doesn’t permit users uploading songs directly onto the platform. Instead, it is necessary to partner with a music distribution company or an aggregator who is licensed to upload music to Spotify. The distributors will make sure the music you upload is prepared, licensed and suitable for streaming.
Choose a Music Distributor
A variety of music distribution companies will help you find your music to Spotify. The most popular options are:
- DistroKid
- TuneCore
- CD Baby
- Amuse (free alternative for artists who are independent)
- Ditto Music
Examine these platforms in relation to the cost of each, their royalty distribution as well as additional features such the ability to market or pitch your playlist.
Prepare Your Music for Upload
Before uploading, be sure that the songs you upload are compatible with the Spotify’s creative and technical standards:
- Audio Format: The tracks must be in WAV or FLAC format. Ideally, you want to use the resolution of 16 or 24 bits with the sample rate at 44.1 kHz.
- Metadata: Provide exact songs’ titles, artists’ names, album names and the release date.
- Artwork: Make high-quality albums of artwork (minimum 3000×3000 pixels, in JPEG as well as PNG size). Do not include text that infringes copyright law.
Register an Account through Your chosen Distributor
Create an account with the distributor that you’ve picked. A majority of distributors provide simple procedures for onboarding. If you already have created an account, go through these steps:
- Add Your Tracks to Upload: Insert the audio files from your tracks.
- Input Metadata: Add the relevant information, like the song’s title and genre, release date and the name of the artist.
- Upload Album Artwork Cover art for your album: Upload the artwork to meet the guidelines provided by the distributor.
Set a Release Date
Some distributors permit you to select a release date. Pick a time that allows sufficient time to advertise your songs before going live. The most common recommendation is to plan your release minimum 4 weeks prior to the release date.
Pitch Your Songs for Spotify Playlists
The playlist feature on Spotify can dramatically increase the visibility of your music. For pitching your track:
- Make an account on Spotify for Artists after your distributor is able to submit the music.
- Log into Spotify for Artists and claim your artist account.
- Upload your previously unreleased track for consideration in”Pitch a Song “Pitch a Song” feature.
Pay Attention to Copyright and Royalties
Check to see if you’ve got the right to the music that you upload. Distributors usually deal with royalty collection and payouts according to their own terms, so read through the conditions for a better understanding of how royalties are dispersed.
Track Performance
When your music has been online, you can use a tool like Spotify for Artists to monitor the success of your music. You can monitor the performance of your music by tracking metrics like streams or listeners as well as the playlist’s placement. Utilize these data to improve your marketing strategies.
