How to Submit Music to iTunes and Spotify

In today's digital age, getting your music on platforms like iTunes and Spotify is crucial for reaching a global audience. Whether you're an aspiring artist looking to make a name for yourself or an established musician aiming to expand your fan base, understanding the submission process is essential. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps needed to submit your music to both iTunes and Spotify, ensuring your tracks are available for streaming and downloading worldwide.

Submitting Your Music to iTunes

iTunes, now part of Apple Music, remains one of the most popular platforms for purchasing and downloading music. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to submit your music to iTunes:

1. Choose a Music Distributor

To get your music on iTunes, you need to go through a music distributor. Distributors act as intermediaries between artists and digital platforms. Some well-known distributors include SoundOn, Distrokid, Tunecore, and CDbaby. Each distributor has its own set of services, fees, and processes, so make sure to choose one that suits your needs.

2. Prepare Your Music

Before submitting your music, ensure it meets iTunes' quality standards. This includes having mastered audio files and correctly formatted metadata. Typically, audio files should be in WAV format with a sample rate of 44.1 kHz and a bit depth of 16 bits.

3. Set Up Your Account

Once you’ve chosen a distributor, you need to create an account on their platform. This usually involves providing personal information, artist details, and payment information. Some distributors may also require verification of your identity.

4. Upload Your Music

Next, upload your tracks to the distributor’s platform. Ensure you include all necessary details, such as track title, album title, genre, release date, and cover art. High-quality cover art is important, as it represents your music visually.

5. Submit for Approval

After uploading, your distributor will review your submission to ensure everything meets iTunes' standards. Once approved, your music will be sent to iTunes for further review and eventual release.

Submitting Your Music to Spotify

Spotify is one of the leading streaming platforms globally, with millions of listeners. To maximize your reach, getting your music on Spotify is a must. Here’s how to do it:

1. Choose a Digital Distributor

Similar to iTunes, you need a digital distributor to get your music on Spotify. Platforms like SoundOn, ONErpm, and Indiefy offer distribution services specifically tailored for Spotify. Select a distributor that provides extensive support and reasonable distribution fees.

2. Prepare Your Music Files

Ensure your music is ready for distribution by preparing high-quality audio files. Spotify requires audio in the WAV format, with a sample rate of 44.1 kHz and a bit depth of 16 bits. Additionally, accurate metadata is crucial for proper track listing and artist identification.

3. Create an Account with Your Chosen Distributor

Sign up for an account with your selected distributor. During the registration process, you’ll need to provide necessary information regarding your music and artist profile. Make sure all details are accurate to prevent any issues during submission.

4. Upload Your Music

Upload your tracks, complete with metadata, cover art, and other essential information. The distributor will review your submission to confirm it meets Spotify's guidelines.

5. Pitch to Spotify Playlists

Planning a strategic release is vital. Engage in pitching your music to Spotify's playlist curators for better visibility. Distributors like SoundOn offer tools and advice to help artists with playlist pitching. Getting featured on popular playlists can significantly boost your streams and attract new fans.

6. Track Your Release

Once your music is live on Spotify, use the analytics tools provided by your distributor to monitor the performance of your tracks. Understanding listener demographics and engagement patterns can help you refine your marketing strategy for future releases.

Maximizing Your Reach with Effective Promotion

Submitting your music to iTunes and Spotify is just the beginning. Effective promotion is key to maximizing your reach and building a loyal fan base:

1. Utilize Social Media

Leverage platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to promote your releases. Engaging content, such as behind-the-scenes videos, live performances, and interactive posts, can attract new listeners and keep existing fans engaged.

2. Create a Marketing Plan

Develop a comprehensive marketing plan that includes timelines, goals, and promotional strategies. Collaborate with influencers, bloggers, and music review sites to broaden your reach. Consistent and strategic promotion can make a significant difference in your music’s visibility.

3. Engage with Your Audience

Interact with your fans through live chats, Q&A sessions, and social media interactions. Building a personal connection with your audience fosters loyalty and encourages word-of-mouth promotion.

4. Perform Live Shows

Live performances allow you to connect with your audience in a unique way. Use these opportunities to promote your digital releases and sell physical merchandise. Live shows can also generate buzz and attract media attention.

5. Collaborate with Other Artists

Collaborations can introduce your music to new audiences and create versatile promotional content. Partner with artists from complementary genres to expand your reach and diversify your musical portfolio.

Final Thoughts

Submitting your music to iTunes and Spotify is an essential step towards establishing your presence in the music industry. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth submission process and increase your chances of reaching a global audience. Remember, promotion is key, and platforms like SoundOn provide comprehensive tools to help artists succeed in the digital music landscape. Take advantage of these resources to maximize your music's potential and grow your fan base.