What's an EP in Music?

The music industry is filled with jargon that can often confuse newcomers. Terms like "EP” and processes like “Spotify add artist” can seem daunting at first. In this article, we'll demystify these terms while helping you navigate the world of Spotify artists and understanding the concept of an EP in music.

What’s an EP in Music?

An EP, or Extended Play, is a musical recording that contains more tracks than a single but is too short to qualify as a full-length album. Typically, an EP includes 3 to 5 songs and lasts around 15 to 30 minutes. Think of it as a mini-album that offers a more extended experience than a single, but without the extensive commitment of a full album.

Why Artists Release EPs

Releasing an EP can be strategic for both upcoming and established artists for several reasons:

• Introduction to New Audiences: For new artists, an EP serves as an introduction to their sound and style without overwhelming listeners with a full album.
• Testing New Content: Established artists can use an EP to test new musical directions or collaborations before committing to a full album.
• Marketing Tool: EPs can bridge the gap between full album releases and maintain the artist's presence in the public eye.

How to Add Artists on Spotify

For artists looking to make their music available to a wider audience, getting their tracks onto Spotify is a crucial step. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:

1. Sign Up with a Distributor: To get your music on Spotify, you’ll need to go through a music distributor like SoundOn, TuneCore, or others. These platforms handle licensing, uploading, and royalty payments.
2. Upload Your Music: Once you’re signed up, upload your tracks, and provide details like song title, artist name, genre, and release date.
3. Submit to Spotify: Your distributor will then submit your music to Spotify and other DSPs (Digital Streaming Platforms). This can take a few days to a few weeks.
4. Create Your Artist Profile: Once your music is live on Spotify, claim your Spotify for Artists profile to manage your presence on the platform.
5. Promote Your Music: Use social media, email lists, and collaborate with other artists to promote your new release and drive traffic to your Spotify page.

Opportunities for Spotify Artists

Being on Spotify opens up several opportunities for artists:

• Playlist Placement: Getting placed on curated playlists can significantly boost your streams and fanbase.
• Spotify Analytics: Use Spotify for Artists tools to gain insights into your audience demographics, streaming numbers, and more.
• Monetization: Earn royalties from every stream, which can become a steady revenue stream with enough plays.

Conclusion

Understanding terms like “EP” and processes like “Spotify add artist” are essential as you navigate your music career. Whether you’re releasing an EP to introduce your music to new listeners or uploading your tracks to Spotify to build your fanbase, these steps are integral to success. Take advantage of platforms like SoundOn to distribute your music effectively and reach a global audience.