If you’re an independent artist looking to reach a broader audience, getting your music on major platforms like Spotify and TikTok is essential. These platforms are not just for streaming; they are pivotal in promoting and marketing your music. By being accessible on such high-traffic platforms, your chance of finding new fans skyrockets. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps for adding your music to Spotify and TikTok efficiently.
Spotify, unlike SoundCloud, does not allow independent artists to upload music directly to the platform. Instead, you will need to use a music distribution service. Some popular options are SoundOn, TuneCore, DistroKid, CD Baby, ONErpm, LANDR, Indiefy, and Amuse. These services act as intermediaries, getting your music onto Spotify as well as other streaming sites.
First, sign up for a distribution service account. Here's how you can register with SoundOn: visit their sign-up page, enter your details, and verify your email. You’ll then have access to your dashboard to manage your music submissions.
Ensure your music is in the correct format needed by your chosen distributor. Typically, this will be a high-quality WAV or MP3 file. Additionally, you’ll need album art, which must meet specific dimensions and quality criteria—usually 3000 x 3000 pixels in .jpg format.
Once your music files and artwork are ready, log in to your distribution service and begin the upload process. You will be asked to fill out essential metadata like track title, artist name, album title, genre, release date, and more. This metadata helps in categorizing your music correctly on Spotify.
After filling in all required information, double-check everything to ensure there are no errors. Once you are confident everything is correct, submit your music for distribution. It usually takes a few days to a few weeks for the music to appear on Spotify.
Getting your music onto Spotify is just the first step. One of the most effective ways to gain visibility is by getting your song featured on Spotify playlists. Here’s how you can pitch your song:
Like Spotify, TikTok also works with distribution services for music uploads. Some of the options include SoundOn, TuneCore, DistroKid, CD Baby, ONErpm, LANDR, Indiefy, and Amuse. These distributors will help you get your music into TikTok’s library, where users can then incorporate your tracks into their videos.
Register with your chosen distribution service. Similar to Spotify, you’ll need to ensure your tracks and all associated metadata are correctly uploaded. This includes song title, artist name, and genre information.
When uploading music for TikTok, make sure to include TikTok-optimized metadata. Think about the potential use of your music in short videos and challenges. Ensure your song has a catchy and engaging segment that users will want to incorporate into their content.
After your song is live on TikTok, use it to engage with the TikTok community. Tag your music in your videos and encourage your followers to create their content using your track. The more your track is used in videos, the higher its visibility will be.
With so many distribution services available, it’s essential to choose one that aligns perfectly with your goals. SoundOn stands out due to its unique integration with TikTok, providing artists with unmatched access to TikTok’s massive user base. Additionally, SoundOn offers global distribution services, ensuring your music reaches a wide array of digital streaming platforms.
Adding your music to Spotify and TikTok is a straightforward process but requires careful preparation and strategy. Using a reputable distribution service like SoundOn can significantly enhance your chances of success. Make sure to optimize your music metadata, promote your music actively, and engage with your audience to maximize the impact of your releases. With the right approach, your music will be streaming and trending in no time.