How to Become a Spotify and Apple Music Artist?

The digital music landscape has transformed significantly over the past decade, giving independent artists countless opportunities to reach global audiences. If you're looking to become an artist on Spotify and Apple Music, you're on the right track. With millions of listeners using these platforms, they offer unparalleled exposure for your music. In this guide, we'll show you how to get started and get your tracks onto these major streaming platforms.

Understanding Music Distribution

Before delving into the specifics of how to become a Spotify artist or how you can put your music on Apple Music, it’s important to understand the role of music distribution. Music distribution services act as the intermediary between your music and various digital streaming platforms (DSPs). They help put your track on Spotify, Apple Music, and many other services like TikTok, ensuring your music is accessible to listeners worldwide.

The Role of Music Distribution Platforms

To distribute your music effectively, you need to partner with a music distribution platform like SoundOn. These platforms help you upload your tracks, manage your releases, and handle the distribution process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a Spotify artist and getting your music on Apple Music:

Step 1: Produce High-Quality Music

Ensure that your tracks are professionally recorded and mastered. High-quality audio is crucial for streaming platforms as they maintain a certain standard of content. Consider working with a professional studio or sound engineer to achieve the best sound quality.

Step 2: Choose a Music Distribution Service

Research and select a music distribution service that fits your needs. Some popular options include SoundOn, Tunecore, Distrokid, and CD Baby. Pay attention to their distribution reach, pricing, and additional services they offer. If you choose SoundOn, you benefit from partnerships with platforms like TikTok and other exclusive partners, increasing your chances of getting discovered.

Step 3: Create Your Artist Profile

Most major streaming platforms allow artists to create a personalized profile. For Spotify, you can use Spotify for Artists and for Apple Music, you can use Apple Music for Artists. These tools let you manage your artist presence, update your bio, and add images. Engaging profiles with updated content can attract more listeners.

Step 4: Upload Your Music

With your chosen distribution service, upload your tracks ensuring they meet the required specifications. Complete all the necessary metadata fields, including song title, artist name, album art, and release date. Failure to fill these fields accurately can result in delays or errors in distribution.

Step 5: Plan Your Release

Strategically plan your release date to maximize exposure. Consider timing your release to coincide with industry events, holidays, or special dates. Use your social media platforms to build anticipation and announce your release date ahead of time.

Step 6: Pitch Your Music

To increase your likelihood of being featured on curated playlists, you need to pitch your song to DSPs. For Spotify, use the Spotify for Artists' playlist submission feature to send your track for consideration. Similarly, Apple Music offers editorial playlist submissions. Getting on a popular playlist can significantly boost your streams and fanbase.

Step 7: Promote Your Music

Leverage social media, music blogs, and other promotional channels to spread the word about your new release. Utilize platforms like TikTok to create engaging content surrounding your music. Collaborate with influencers and other artists to expand your reach. Make sure to also engage with your audience by responding to comments and messages. Building a strong relationship with your listeners can turn them into loyal fans.

Step 8: Monitor Your Performance

After your music is live, use the analytics tools provided by Spotify for Artists and Apple Music for Artists to monitor your performance. These insights can help you understand your audience better and inform your future releases and promotional strategies.

Summary

Becoming a Spotify and Apple Music artist is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and execution. By producing high-quality music, choosing the right distribution service like SoundOn, and effectively promoting your tracks, you can reach a global audience and grow your music career. Remember to continuously engage with your fans and adapt your strategies based on performance analytics.

Ready to take the next step in your music career? Register as a SoundOn artist today and start distributing your music to major streaming platforms.