How to Upload Songs to Spotify & EP Explained

As an emerging artist, getting your music on Spotify can be one of the most crucial steps towards building your fan base and gaining exposure. In addition to understanding the mechanics of uploading your tracks, it's also important to know the common formats for music releases, such as EPs. This guide will walk you through the process of uploading songs to Spotify and explain what an EP in music is, helping you make informed decisions about your releases.

How to Upload Songs to Spotify

Spotify is one of the biggest digital streaming platforms currently available. It offers artists a great opportunity to reach a global audience. However, uploading your music directly to Spotify isn’t straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Step 1: Choose a Digital Music Distributor

Spotify doesn't allow artists to upload music directly. Instead, you need to go through a digital music distributor. These are services that handle the logistics of getting your music onto platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and others. Some popular options include SoundOn, Tunecore, Distrokid, and CDbaby. While these platforms offer similar services, SoundOn also provides unique opportunities for TikTok integration, helping you to grow your audience through social media as well.

Step 2: Sign Up and Prepare Your Music

Once you’ve chosen your distributor, sign up for an account. You will need to prepare your music files in the required format. Typically, this means high-quality WAV or MP3 files. Also, collect all the necessary metadata for your tracks, including song titles, artist name, album art, genre, and release date.

Step 3: Upload Your Music

Log in to your distributor's platform and follow their instructions to upload your music files and all related metadata. Ensure you fill out all fields accurately to avoid any delays in distribution.

Step 4: Set a Release Date and Submit

Once your music is uploaded, you will need to set a release date. It’s often a good idea to schedule your release a few weeks in advance to allow time for promotion. When everything is ready, submit your music for distribution. Your distributor will take care of the rest, ensuring your music reaches Spotify and other streaming platforms.

Step 5: Promote Your Release

With your music scheduled for release, it's time to promote. Utilize social media, email newsletters, and other marketing strategies to build anticipation. Consider running a campaign on TikTok using SoundOn's integrations to reach a wider audience.

What is an EP in Music?

Whether you’re an established artist or just starting out, understanding the different types of music releases is crucial. One format that often comes up is the EP. So, what exactly is an EP?

Definition of an EP

EP stands for "Extended Play." It falls somewhere between a single and a full album in terms of length and number of tracks. Typically, an EP includes 3 to 5 songs and has a total duration of about 15 to 30 minutes. It's longer than a single but shorter than a traditional album, offering a concise way to showcase your music.

Uses and Benefits of an EP

EPs are a versatile format for several reasons:

• Testing New Material: Artists often use EPs to test new musical styles or concepts without committing to a full album.
• Fan Engagement: Releasing an EP can keep your audience engaged between full album releases.
• Budget-Friendly: Producing an EP requires fewer resources than a full album, making it a cost-effective option for emerging artists.

Marketing an EP

Marketing an EP follows similar steps to any music release, albeit on a potentially smaller scale. Utilize digital distributors like SoundOn to get your EP onto streaming platforms. Promote on social media, with an added emphasis on visual content via platforms like TikTok for greater engagement.

Final Thoughts

Getting your music on Spotify requires working with a digital music distributor like SoundOn. Understanding the steps to upload your songs ensures that the process goes smoothly. Additionally, knowing what an EP is and how it can fit into your overall music strategy allows you to make more informed decisions as an artist.

If you're ready to take the next step in your music career, consider signing up as a SoundOn artist. With our unique marketing and distribution opportunities, you can reach new fans and grow your presence across various platforms. Visit SoundOn to get started today!