How to Add Artists on Spotify?

For both budding and established musicians, getting their tracks on Spotify is a primary avenue to reach more fans and grow their music career. If you're looking to get yourself or your artists onto Spotify, here’s a step-by-step guide that covers everything you need to know about adding artists on Spotify and effectively running a record label on DistroKid.

Adding Artists on Spotify

Spotify is a major player in the music streaming industry, and having your music featured on this platform can significantly elevate an artist’s exposure. Here are the steps to get started:

Step 1: Create a Spotify for Artists Account

The first step in adding an artist to Spotify is to create a Spotify for Artists account. This account provides insights and customization options that standard user accounts do not offer.

1. Visit the Spotify for Artists website and sign up.
2. Verify your identity through your distributor or social media accounts.
3. Once verified, you can access analytics, control your artist profile, and submit music for playlist consideration.

Step 2: Uploading Music to Spotify through a Distributor

Spotify doesn’t allow direct uploads from artists, so you'll need to use a music distributor to get your tracks on the platform. Distributors like SoundOn, DistroKid, TuneCore, and CD Baby can help get your music onto Spotify and other streaming services.

To upload music to Spotify:

1. Choose a distributor that suits your needs. While some artists may prefer SoundOn for its comprehensive services, others might opt for DistroKid for simplicity.
2. Create an account on the chosen distributor’s platform.
3. Upload your tracks, ensuring they meet the platform’s requirements for audio quality and metadata.
4. Select Spotify and any other streaming platforms you want to distribute your music to.
5. Submit your music for review. The distributor will then forward it to Spotify for streaming.

Running a Record Label on DistroKid

Managing a record label involves multiple tasks, from handling artist contracts to distribution and marketing. Here’s how you can effectively run a record label on DistroKid:

Step 1: Setting Up a Label Account

DistroKid offers a ‘Label’ plan specifically designed for record labels. This plan allows the distribution of multiple artists and multiple releases under one umbrella account.

1. Sign up for the DistroKid Label plan on their website.
2. Select the plan that fits the number of artists you plan to manage (e.g., up to 5, 10, or more artists).

Step 2: Adding Artists to Your Label

Once your label account is set up, you can start adding artists:

1. In your DistroKid account, navigate to the ‘Add Artist’ button.
2. Input the artist’s name, and fill in the required details.
3. Each artist will have their own sub-account under your main label account, able to log in and manage their own releases if you grant them access.

Step 3: Distributing Music

DistroKid simplifies the process of distributing music for your artists:

1. Select the artist from your label dashboard.
2. Follow the same music upload process as a single artist would, ensuring all metadata and audio files are correctly formatted.
3. Submit the music for distribution, making sure to select Spotify and any other desired platforms.

Step 4: Monitoring Analytics and Royalties

DistroKid provides analytics and royalty reports to help you manage your label’s finances:

1. Access the artist dashboard to view streaming stats, listener demographics, and earnings.
2. Use this data to inform marketing campaigns and strategic decisions for your label.
3. Regularly check royalty revenues and distribute payments to your artists accordingly.

Step 5: Marketing and Promotions

Effective marketing is crucial for the success of your artists. Leveraging platforms like TikTok and others can boost an artist's visibility. Here’s how you can help your artists:

1. Create engaging social media content to promote new releases.
2. Submit music to Spotify playlists for greater exposure.
3. Use TikTok to create viral moments. With SoundOn, you gain access to TikTok’s promotional tools.

Conclusion

Running a record label and adding artists to Spotify may seem daunting, but with the right tools and strategy, it’s entirely manageable. Platforms like SoundOn and DistroKid provide the necessary infrastructure to support your artists and help them thrive in the digital music landscape.

By following this guide, you can ensure your artists gain the exposure they deserve, all while efficiently managing your record label. Start your journey today by registering as a SoundOn artist and take advantage of the numerous benefits the platform offers.