For independent artists, getting your music onto major streaming platforms like Spotify is a crucial step in building your career. However, navigating the complexities of independent label distribution can seem daunting. This guide will help demystify the process, breaking down the steps involved and showing how platforms like SoundOn can assist you in reaching a global audience.
Independent label distribution refers to the process where independent labels help unsigned or independent artists distribute their music to major digital platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. Unlike major labels that own and control a significant portion of the artist's work, independent labels generally allow artists to maintain more control and rights over their music.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to upload your tracks on Spotify:
First, you need to select a music distribution platform. While there are several options available like TuneCore, DistroKid, and CD Baby, distributing your music through SoundOn offers unique advantages. SoundOn is an all-in-one platform for marketing and distribution, helping you build a career and find new fans through TikTok and exclusive partnerships with CapCut, and distributing your tracks to global streaming services.
After choosing a distributor, the next step is to set up your artist account. If you decide to go with SoundOn, you can register as a SoundOn artist quickly and easily. Having an artist account allows you to manage your uploads, track your performance metrics, and collect your royalties all from one dashboard.
Before uploading, make sure your music files meet the required specification. Generally, this means having high-quality WAV or MP3 files, correctly formatted metadata (including song titles, artist names, and album information), and accompanying artwork that meets size and format guidelines.
Once your files are ready, log in to your chosen distribution platform and upload your music. On SoundOn, this process is user-friendly and streamlined. You'll upload your audio files, input the correct metadata, and upload your artwork. Some platforms may also allow you to set a release date, enabling you to strategize your promotion efforts effectively.
After uploading, your music will typically go through a review process to ensure it meets the platform’s standards. Once approved, your tracks will be distributed to various streaming platforms, including Spotify. This usually takes a few days, but it can vary depending on the platform’s processes and your distributor.
Getting your music on Spotify is only half the battle; the next step is to promote it. Utilize social media, engage with your fans, and consider leveraging platforms like TikTok to maximize your reach. SoundOn provides tools to help you market your music effectively, allowing you to connect with a broader audience and track your promotional success.
When choosing an independent label distribution platform, SoundOn offers several benefits that can help you succeed as an artist:
One of the significant advantages of using a music distribution platform like SoundOn is the ability to track your royalties and payments. Understanding how royalties work and when you get paid is essential for managing your career. Typically, you earn royalties every time someone streams or downloads your music. These royalties are collected by the distribution platform and paid out to you at regular intervals.
Independent label distribution is a powerful tool for getting your music out to the world. By partnering with a reliable platform like SoundOn, you not only gain access to global streaming services like Spotify but also to valuable marketing and promotional tools. Follow these steps, and you'll be well on your way to boosting your music career.
Ready to take the next step? Register as a SoundOn artist today and start your journey in the music industry!