How to Sell Music on iTunes and Submit to Spotify?

As an artist in today's digital age, getting your music out onto popular platforms like iTunes and Spotify is crucial for reaching a broader audience. This guide will walk you through the steps needed to sell your music on iTunes and submit it to Spotify.

Selling Your Music on iTunes

iTunes, now part of Apple Music, is one of the most prominent platforms for digital music sales. Here’s how you can sell your music on iTunes:

1. Use a Digital Distribution Service

To sell your music on iTunes, you’ll need to go through a digital distribution service. These services handle the licensing, distribution, and tracking sales for you. Popular services include SoundOn, Tunecore, and CD Baby. Each has its own process, but generally, the steps are similar.

2. Create Your Music and Artwork

Ensure that your music is professionally recorded, mixed, and mastered. Additionally, you will need appropriate artwork for your album or single that meets iTunes’ specifications (a minimum size of 1400 x 1400 pixels, JPG or PNG format).

3. Register and Upload Your Music

Register on the digital distribution service of your choice. After creating an account, you can upload your music files and artwork. Most platforms will require you to provide metadata, such as artist name, album name, genre, and release date.

4. Set Pricing and Review

Set the pricing for your tracks or albums. Review all the information you've entered to ensure it’s accurate. After reviewing, submit your music for distribution.

5. Wait for Approval

Once submitted, your music will undergo a review process by both your distribution service and iTunes. This process can take a few days to a few weeks. Upon approval, your music will be available for purchase and streaming on iTunes/Apple Music.

Submitting Your Music to Spotify

Spotify is one of the largest streaming platforms globally and getting your music on Spotify can significantly increase your visibility and fan base. Here's how to submit your music to Spotify:

1. Use a Digital Distribution Service

Just like with iTunes, to get your music on Spotify, you’ll need a digital distribution service. You can use platforms like SoundOn to distribute your music to Spotify and other streaming services.

2. Prepare Your Music

Make sure your tracks are finalized and of professional quality. Verify that you have the necessary rights to distribute your music. Create engaging cover art that meets Spotify's specifications (minimum 640 x 640 pixels, JPG or PNG format).

3. Upload and Submit Metadata

Log in to your chosen distribution service and upload your tracks and cover art. You will need to fill out metadata fields including track title, artist name, album name, and genre. The accuracy of this information is crucial as it helps Spotify organize and recommend your music correctly.

4. Select Release Date

Choose a release date for your music. It's recommended to set a release date at least two weeks in the future. This provides enough time for Spotify to review and schedule your release, and it allows you to create promotional campaigns.

5. Promote Your Music

Once your music is live on Spotify, it's important to promote it. Share the Spotify link on your social media platforms, website, and with your mailing list. Collaborate with playlist curators, and engage with your listeners.

6. Pitch to Spotify Playlists

If you distribute through a service that offers this feature, you can pitch your music to be included in Spotify playlists. Spotify for Artists allows you to submit unreleased music for playlist consideration.

Maximizing Your Reach

Registering with SoundOn gives you access to TikTok's vast audience and other marketing tools that can boost your music's exposure. By distributing your music through SoundOn, you can ensure your tracks are available on multiple platforms, including iTunes and Spotify, maximizing your reach and income.

Get started with SoundOn by signing up here.

Conclusion

Selling your music on iTunes and submitting to Spotify are essential steps in building a successful music career. By using a digital distribution service, preparing your music and artwork professionally, and promoting your music effectively, you can reach new audiences and grow your fanbase. Don't forget to explore all the tools and opportunities that platforms like SoundOn offer to enhance your music distribution strategy.