How to Upload Music on Spotify: The Ultimate Music Distribution Guide

Getting your song streamed next to global chart-toppers no longer requires a major-label contract or a giant marketing budget. Thanks to modern music distribution services, any independent artist can learn how to upload music on Spotify and reach millions of potential fans. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process—from preparing audio files to pitching playlists—so you can release professionally, get paid, and grow your fanbase.

1. Understand Why You Need a Distributor

Spotify doesn’t allow direct uploads from independent creators. Instead, artists must deliver their tracks through an approved digital distributor. A distributor’s job is to send your audio, artwork, and metadata to Spotify and other stores, collect royalties, and pay you according to your chosen plan. Popular distribution options include DistroKid, Tunecore, CD Baby, and, of course, SoundOn. No matter which partner you choose, the workflow is similar—but below we’ll highlight the unique tools SoundOn provides for streamlined growth on TikTok and beyond.

2. Get Your Music and Assets Ready

• Finalize your mix and master: Spotify recommends 16-bit/44.1 kHz WAV files.
• Create high-quality cover art: 3000 × 3000 px, JPG or PNG, no logos you don’t own.
• Write accurate metadata: artist name, collaborators, title, track number, ISRC (usually assigned by your distributor).
• Plan your release date: Give yourself at least two weeks to pitch playlists.

3. Set Up Your Distributor Account

If you don’t already have a distribution profile, now’s the time. With SoundOn, sign-up takes minutes and you’ll instantly gain access to TikTok’s audience, CapCut integrations, and transparent royalty dashboards. After creating your profile, fill in payment details, tax information, and preferred currency so future earnings reach you without delays.

4. Upload Your Release

Inside your distributor’s dashboard, choose New Release (sometimes called Single or Album). You’ll be prompted to:

1. Upload the final WAV or FLAC file.
2. Drag and drop your cover art.
3. Enter metadata (title, language, explicit flag, genre, composers, lyricists).
4. Select stores and territories—be sure to check Spotify.
5. Pick a release date with at least two weeks of lead time.

After completing each field, double-check spelling and capitalization. Incorrect metadata can delay or block your launch.

5. Clear Copyright and Ownership

You must own—or have permission for—every element in your song, including beats, samples, and artwork. When a distributor asks if you’ve cleared all rights, answer truthfully. Distribution platforms, including SoundOn, have zero tolerance for copyright violations and will remove infringing tracks.

6. Submit and Wait for Processing

Once your release is submitted, the distributor’s quality-control team verifies that the audio, artwork, and metadata meet Spotify’s standards. This can take 24–72 hours. If any issue arises, you’ll receive an email detailing what to fix. Otherwise, your music will be scheduled for delivery to Spotify’s servers.

7. Claim Your Spotify for Artists Profile

As soon as your first release appears in Spotify’s catalog (sometimes even before it’s live), you can claim your Spotify for Artists profile. This free toolkit allows you to:

• Upload a bio and photos.
• View real-time streaming stats.
• Create Artist Playlists.
• Pitch upcoming songs to editorial curators.
• Add a merch store and concert dates.

Use the same email you registered with your distributor to simplify verification.

8. Pitch Your Track for Editorial Playlists

Landing on a Spotify editorial playlist can explode your stream count overnight. To submit, log in to Spotify for Artists, find your unreleased track under Upcoming, and fill out the pitch form. You’ll need genre, mood, instrumentation, language, and marketing plans. Mention if the song is trending on TikTok or being pushed via influencers, as curators love cross-platform buzz.

9. Optimize for Algorithmic Playlists

Spotify’s algorithms monitor listener behavior—saves, skips, playlist adds—to decide which tracks to recommend in Discover Weekly or Release Radar. Boost your chances by:

• Encouraging fans to pre-save and follow you.
• Promoting your track heavily during launch week.
• Driving traffic from TikTok and Instagram Reels directly to your Spotify link.

SoundOn’s TikTok integration lets you place a “listen on Spotify” sticker in your videos, sending viewers right to your release.

10. Collect and Track Your Royalties

Spotify pays royalties based on a stream-share model. Your distributor collects your share and pays you according to its payout schedule. Inside the SoundOn dashboard, you’ll see daily estimated earnings broken down by platform and territory—an invaluable tool for marketing decisions. Typical payout timelines range from 30–60 days after the end of the streaming month.

11. Market Your Release Beyond Spotify

While this article focuses on how to upload music on Spotify, do not ignore other DSPs. Your distributor can deliver to Apple Music, Amazon, Deezer, and more with one click. Diversifying platforms ensures maximum revenue and discovery potential.

Marketing tactics:

• TikTok challenges: Use SoundOn to whitelist your track for viral creators.
• Short-form video edits: CapCut’s integrations make snippet creation fast.
• Email newsletter: Send your Spotify link plus a personal story behind the song.
• Virtual release party: Host an Instagram Live Q&A and play the song.

12. Maintain Your Catalog and Momentum

After a successful release, keep the momentum alive:

• Upload lyric videos to YouTube.
• Release alternate versions or remixes every 4–6 weeks.
• Update your Artist Pick and profile visuals on Spotify regularly.
• Gather listener feedback and tweak your next marketing plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for my song to go live?

Once processing is complete, Spotify typically publishes your release at midnight local time on your chosen date. Always build in at least two weeks lead time before release day.

Does Spotify charge artists to upload?

Spotify itself does not charge, but your distributor will have either a per-release fee, annual membership, or percentage commission. Review each platform’s terms carefully. SoundOn charges a distribution fee while offering extra marketing perks across TikTok’s ecosystem.

Will Spotify promote my song automatically?

Spotify’s algorithm surfaces tracks based on listener engagement. High save rates, repeat listens, and external traffic increase visibility. Consistent marketing is crucial.

Key Takeaways

1. You cannot upload directly; you need a distributor.
2. Prepare quality audio, artwork, and metadata.
3. Schedule at least two weeks ahead for playlist pitching.
4. Claim your Spotify for Artists profile promptly.
5. Use TikTok, SoundOn, and other social channels to drive traffic.
6. Track royalties and reinvest in future releases.

Ready to Release?

Now that you know how to upload music on Spotify, it’s time to act. Sign up with SoundOn, prepare your files, and schedule your next drop. The world is waiting to hear your music—don’t keep them waiting.

Happy releasing, and see you on the charts!