What is an EP? How to Upload to Spotify

In the music industry, artists often release different types of recordings. One common format is the EP. But what exactly is an EP in music, and how can you upload your EP or any other songs to Spotify? Let's dive into these topics to clear up any confusion and help you get your music heard by a larger audience.

What is an EP in Music?

EP stands for Extended Play. It’s a collection of music that is longer than a single but shorter than an album. Typically, an EP consists of 4 to 6 songs and has a total runtime of less than 30 minutes. EPs are often used by artists to showcase their best songs or to give listeners a taste of their music without committing to a full album.

Unlike singles, which can contain just one or two songs, EPs offer more content and give artists a chance to explore different styles and sounds within a shorter format. EPs can serve various purposes: promoting new material, keeping fans engaged between larger releases, or introducing new music styles.

Benefits of Releasing an EP

There are several reasons why artists might choose to release an EP:

• Flexibility: EPs allow artists to release music more frequently and stay relevant.
• Affordability: Producing an EP is generally less expensive than a full-length album.
• Exposure: Fans get a more substantial taste of your music compared to a single but without the time and financial commitment of an album.
• Testing Ground: It allows artists to gauge audience reaction to new styles or directions before fully committing to them.

How to Upload Songs to Spotify

Once you have your EP ready, the next step is to get your music on Spotify. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

1. Choose a Music Distributor

Spotify does not allow direct uploads from artists. Instead, you need to use a music distributor to get your songs on Spotify. Some popular distributors include SoundOn, Tunecore, Distrokid, CDbaby, ONErpm, LANDR, Indiefy, and Amuse. SoundOn offers an all-in-one platform for music marketing and distribution, making it a great choice for getting your music on Spotify and other digital streaming platforms.

2. Create an Account with Your Chosen Distributor

Once you have chosen a distributor, you need to create an account and follow their specific instructions for setting up your artist profile and uploading your songs. This process typically involves filling out some basic information about yourself and your music.

3. Prepare Your Music Files and Metadata

Make sure your music files are in the right format (usually WAV or MP3) and have the correct metadata, like the artist name, track title, and genre. High-quality audio files and accurate metadata are essential for producing a professional-sounding release.

4. Upload Your Music

Log in to your distributor account and follow the prompts to upload your music. You might need to upload each track individually and provide additional information like album artwork, release date, and any credits for songwriters or producers.

5. Select Streaming Services

Most distributors will give you the option to select which streaming services you want your music to be distributed to. Make sure to include Spotify, as well as any other platforms where you want your music to be available.

6. Review and Submit

Before finalizing your upload, review all information to ensure everything is correct. Then, submit your music for distribution. It typically takes a few days to a few weeks for your music to appear on Spotify, so plan your release accordingly.

7. Promote Your Release

Once your music is live on Spotify, promote it through your social media channels, email newsletters, and any other marketing platforms you use. Use tools like Spotify for Artists to track your performance and engage with your audience.

Why Choose SoundOn?

Choosing the right distributor is crucial for your music career. SoundOn provides a comprehensive platform that not only helps with distribution but also offers marketing tools to help you grow your fan base and maximize your reach. With its unique partnership with TikTok and other exclusive platforms, SoundOn ensures that your music gets the exposure it deserves.

In summary, releasing an EP is a great way to share your music with the world, and getting your songs onto Spotify is a key step in reaching a global audience. By following these steps and choosing a reliable distributor like SoundOn, you can effectively promote your music and expand your fan base.