As independent artists, getting your music onto platforms like iTunes and Apple Music is a critical step in reaching a wider audience and growing your fanbase. If you're wondering how to put your song on iTunes or how to become an Apple Music partner, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps and considerations to achieve your goals.
Apple Music and iTunes are two of the most influential music platforms today. With millions of users worldwide, they offer a significant opportunity for artists to get their music heard. Being present on these platforms not only increases your visibility but also enhances your credibility as a professional artist.
Here are the detailed steps to upload your music on iTunes and Apple Music:
Ensure that your music is of high quality. This includes proper mixing and mastering to meet industry standards. Also, verify that your metadata (track title, artist name, album name, etc.) is accurate and complete.
To get your music onto iTunes and Apple Music, you need to use a music distributor. Some popular distributors include SoundOn, Tunecore, and Distrokid. These services act as intermediaries, uploading your music to various streaming platforms, including Apple Music and iTunes.
Once you've chosen a distributor, sign up for an account. If you choose SoundOn, you'll benefit from their extensive network and expertise in music distribution, helping to maximize your reach and income.
Follow the distributor’s instructions to upload your music. This typically involves uploading your audio files, adding metadata, uploading album artwork, and selecting the release date.
Once your music is uploaded, the distributor will submit it to Apple Music and iTunes for approval. This process can take a few days. It’s essential to submit your music well in advance of your planned release date.
After your music is live on iTunes and Apple Music, the real work begins. Promote your release on social media, through your email list, and with engaging content on platforms like TikTok. Using a service like SoundOn can facilitate your promotion and help you reach a broader audience.
Becoming an Apple Music partner means integrating with the platform for better exposure and potential playlist inclusions. Here's how you can become an Apple Music partner:
Visit the Apple Music for Artists page and sign up. You'll need to provide your Apple ID, some basic information about yourself and your music, and submit to the verification process.
Once accepted, you’ll gain access to Apple’s analytics tool. This valuable resource will help you understand your audience better, track your performance, and fine-tune your promotional strategies.
Being an Apple Music partner increases your chances of getting featured on curated playlists, which can significantly boost your streams and visibility.
Getting your music onto iTunes and Apple Music and becoming an Apple Music partner requires careful planning and execution. By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully navigate the process and enhance your music career. Remember, leveraging a robust platform like SoundOn can streamline your distribution and promotion efforts, ensuring your music reaches the right ears.