What's the Difference Between EP, LP, and Album?

In the ever-evolving music industry, terms like EP, LP, and album often come up. But what do they mean, and how do they differ from one another? Furthermore, if you're an artist looking to distribute cover songs, you need to know the right platforms and strategies. Let's dive into these topics to help you navigate your music career more effectively.

Understanding EP, LP, and Album

First, let's clarify the basic definitions:

• EP (Extended Play): An EP is a musical recording that contains more music than a single but is usually unqualified as a full studio album. Generally, an EP comprises 3-5 songs and lasts up to 30 minutes.
• LP (Long Play): An LP is another term for a full-length album. Historically, it referred to vinyl records that could hold up to 60 minutes of music. Today, an LP means a complete album with a longer duration than an EP.
• Album: This is the most generic term and can be used to describe any collection of music tracks released together. An album typically includes 8-15 songs.

Understanding these definitions can help you decide what type of project you want to release based on your goals and the amount of material you have ready.

How to Distribute Cover Songs

Distributing cover songs involves a bit more complexity than distributing original music. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Obtain the Necessary Licenses

To distribute a cover song legally, you need to obtain licenses, such as a mechanical license. The Harry Fox Agency and services like Easy Song Licensing can help you secure these rights.

2. Choose a Distribution Platform

Not all music distribution platforms handle cover songs the same way. Platforms like SoundOn offer comprehensive tools for distributing both original music and cover songs. Once you have your mechanical licenses, you can upload your cover songs to multiple streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music through SoundOn.

Register as a SoundOn artist to streamline your distribution process for cover songs and gain access to exclusive marketing tools, including TikTok promotion.

3. Promote Your Cover Song

Getting your cover song noticed is the next big step. Utilize social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook to share snippets and engage with your audience. Ensure you use relevant hashtags and collaborate with influencers or other artists to broaden your reach.

Why Choose SoundOn for Your Music Distribution?

SoundOn is not merely a distribution platform; it's an all-in-one solution for marketing and distribution. Here’s why you should consider using SoundOn:

• Comprehensive Tools: SoundOn offers a range of tools that help you market your music effectively, including TikTok integration.
• Global Reach: When you distribute through SoundOn, your music reaches a global audience, increasing your chances of getting noticed.
• Monetization Opportunities: SoundOn helps you monetize your music through various digital streaming platforms, boosting your royalty earnings.

Gaining exposure in today's crowded music landscape requires more than just talent; it requires strategic distribution and effective marketing. SoundOn equips you with the tools you need to succeed in both areas.

Conclusion

Whether you're releasing an EP, LP, or a full album, understanding the differences between these formats can help you make more informed decisions about your music career. And if you're looking to distribute cover songs, platforms like SoundOn can simplify the process and broaden your reach.

By leveraging the comprehensive suite of tools provided by SoundOn, you can focus on what you do best—creating memorable music—while the platform takes care of your distribution and marketing needs. Start your journey with SoundOn today and elevate your music career to new heights.