As an independent artist, getting your music on major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and iTunes can open up a world of opportunities. With millions of users on these platforms, it’s one of the best ways to reach new listeners and grow your fanbase. But how do you get your music from your computer to these global streaming services? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from preparing your music to avoiding common pitfalls along the way.

Step 1: Prepare Your Music for Distribution

Before distributing your music, make sure it’s ready for release. Here are a few things you’ll need to check:

• Audio Quality: Ensure your music is high quality. Streaming platforms usually require files in WAV format (16-bit/44.1 kHz). Double-check that your tracks are mixed and mastered professionally.
• Artwork: Your cover art is the first thing people see, so make sure it's eye-catching and professional. Platforms have specific guidelines (3000 x 3000 pixels, high resolution), so be sure to follow them.
• Metadata: This includes your song title, artist name, release date, and other details. Make sure everything is correct, as mistakes can be difficult to fix later.

Step 2: Choose a Music Distribution Service

To get your music on major streaming platforms, you’ll need a digital distributor. Distribution services act as the middleman between you and the platforms, ensuring that your tracks reach all major DSPs (Digital Service Providers). There are various distribution services, each with its own pricing structure and features.

When selecting a distributor, consider:

• Reach: Does the distributor get your music on all the platforms you want?
• Costs and Fees: Some distributors charge a one-time fee, while others take a percentage of your earnings. Make sure to choose a service that fits your budget.
• Royalties: Check if the service allows you to keep 100% of your royalties or if they take a cut.

MusicDigi distributes all your releases to major streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and more, as well as all of the top stores and social platforms to make sure you get it in front of the biggest audience possible.

Step 3: Upload Your Music and Metadata

Once you’ve chosen a distributor, the next step is to upload your music, cover art, and metadata. Pay close attention to detail here because once your music is live, fixing errors can be tricky and time-consuming.

• Track Titles: Make sure your song titles are spelled correctly.
• Artist Name: If you’ve collaborated with other artists, ensure their names are included as well. This will help their fans discover your music too.
• Genre and Tags: Select the right genre and add tags that describe your music. This helps platforms recommend your songs to the right listeners.

Step 4: Select a Release Date

Most distribution services allow you to schedule your release in advance. This is a great feature to take advantage of because it gives you time to promote your music before it goes live. Generally, it’s a good idea to set your release date at least a few weeks in advance so you can build anticipation and ensure everything is in place.

Step 5: Promote Your Release

Once your music is uploaded and scheduled for release, it’s time to start promoting it. Here are some effective ways to spread the word:

• Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to announce your release and share snippets of your songs.
• Pre-Save Campaigns: Many distributors offer pre-save options for platforms like Spotify. This allows your fans to save the song before it’s live, giving it an early boost in streams.
• Press and Blogs: Reach out to music blogs, radio stations, and influencers to feature your music.

Read: How to get your music in a playlist on Spotify or Apple Music

Step 6: Monitor Your Release

Once your music is live, don’t forget to monitor its performance. Most distribution platforms provide detailed analytics, allowing you to see which platforms your music is performing best on, where your listeners are located, and more. Use this data to improve future releases and refine your marketing strategies.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Rushing the Release: Take your time to ensure everything is perfect before releasing. A rushed release can lead to errors in metadata, incorrect song titles, or poor-quality audio.
• Ignoring Promotion: Just getting your music on streaming platforms isn’t enough. Without promotion, your music could get lost among the millions of other tracks. Be proactive in spreading the word.
• Choosing the Wrong Distributor: Not all distribution services are created equal. Research each option to ensure they meet your needs, including payout structure and platform reach.

Conclusion

Distributing your music to major streaming platforms is easier than ever, but it’s important to follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful release. From preparing your tracks to selecting the right distributor and promoting your release, taking the time to do things right will pay off in the long run.

Ready to unleash your music? Sign up to MusicDigi to release your music on top platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, iTunes, and more.