How Do You Put Music on Spotify?

Releasing music on Spotify is a significant milestone for any musician striving to reach a wider audience. As one of the leading digital music streaming platforms, Spotify offers artists the opportunity to showcase their work globally. In this article, we’ll go through the steps on how to put your music on Spotify. Additionally, we'll explore a key comparison between two popular music distribution services: CD Baby and TuneCore.

1. How to Put Your Music on Spotify

To get your music on Spotify, you'll need to use a music distribution service. These companies function as intermediaries between you and Spotify, ensuring your tracks are professionally prepared and properly submitted. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Choose a Music Distribution Service

Before you can upload your music to Spotify, select a reputable music distribution service. Popular choices include CD Baby, TuneCore, and SoundOn. Each service has its unique advantages and service fees.

Step 2: Create an Account

Once you've chosen a distribution service, sign up and create an account. This typically involves providing your personal information and agreeing to the terms and conditions.

Step 3: Prepare Your Music

Make sure your music files meet the required specifications. This often includes submitting high-quality WAV files, album artwork, and relevant metadata such as song title, album name, and artist name.

Step 4: Upload Your Music

Follow the instructions provided by your chosen distribution service to upload your tracks. During this process, you'll also need to set a release date and choose the platforms you want your music to be distributed to, including Spotify.

Step 5: Promote Your Music

After your music is live on Spotify, it's time to promote it. Utilize social media, email newsletters, and other marketing strategies to drive listeners to your Spotify profile. Engaging with your audience and sharing your streaming links can help boost your exposure.

2. CD Baby vs. TuneCore: Which is Better?

When choosing a music distribution service, CD Baby and TuneCore are two of the most commonly debated options. Here’s a detailed comparison of both to help you make an informed decision.

Pricing

One of the first aspects artists consider is pricing. CD Baby charges a one-time fee per album or single, making it cost-effective for those on a budget. In contrast, TuneCore operates on an annual subscription model where artists pay a recurring fee to keep their music live on streaming platforms.

Distribution and Reach

Both CD Baby and TuneCore offer extensive distribution networks, ensuring your music reaches all major streaming services, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and more. They also provide additional options for YouTube monetization and Facebook music revenue.

Payment and Royalties

Payment structures and royalty policies differ slightly. CD Baby pays artists weekly once your balance clears the minimum payment threshold, whereas TuneCore offers monthly payouts. Both services take no commission on the sales, meaning artists keep 100% of their royalties.

Features

• CD Baby: CD Baby offers features like sync licensing, physical distribution, and tools for global rights management. They also have a free marketing platform called Show.co, aimed at helping artists promote their music online.
• TuneCore: TuneCore provides in-depth analytics to track your song's performance and audience engagement. Their service also includes publishing administration to help manage and collect your songwriting royalties worldwide.

Customer Support

Artists often need reliable support when navigating music distribution. CD Baby is praised for its responsive and helpful customer service. TuneCore, on the other hand, provides extensive online resources and support articles, though some artists feel their direct support could be more accessible.

Ease of Use

Both platforms offer user-friendly interfaces. CD Baby's straightforward upload process is appreciated by many, while TuneCore’s dashboard provides detailed control over your releases and earnings.

3. Making the Choice: CD Baby, TuneCore, or SoundOn?

Choosing between CD Baby and TuneCore ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prefer a one-time fee structure and additional services like physical distribution, CD Baby might be the better option. Conversely, if you prefer in-depth analytics and don’t mind an annual subscription fee, TuneCore could be more suitable.

Additionally, platforms like SoundOn offer an all-in-one marketing and distribution service. SoundOn helps artists not only distribute their music globally but also promotes it through channels like TikTok and partners such as CapCut. This kind of integrated approach can be highly beneficial for artists looking to maximize their reach and engagement.

Conclusion

Getting your music on Spotify is a vital step for any artist aiming to grow their audience and career. By understanding the distribution options like CD Baby, TuneCore, and SoundOn, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals. Each platform has its unique perks, and the right choice depends on what suits your needs best.

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