How to Release Music on Spotify—Step-By-Step-Guide

Table of contents

1. Prepare your music
2. Choose a digital distributor
3. Upload your music
4. Set a release date
5. Tips for music promotion

1. Prepare your music

Before you can upload your music to Spotify, you need to ensure it's fully prepared. This involves several important steps that guarantee your tracks meet Spotify’s standards and are ready to capture the attention of listeners.

Ensure production is high-quality

First and foremost, your music needs to be produced, mixed, and mastered to professional standards. High-quality audio is crucial for standing out in the crowded music market. Your tracks should be clear, balanced, and meet industry loudness standards.Using TYX London Recording Studios and the services of a skilled audio engineer for mixing and mastering can greatly improve the sound quality.For more insight into getting your tracks to a high standard, check out our guide to music production.

Optimise metadata

Metadata is the detailed information about your music. It helps with identification and categorisation on Spotify and other streaming platforms. Ensure you have all necessary metadata ready, including:

• Song title and artist name
• Genre
• BPM (Beats Per Minute)
• Songwriters and contributors
• Copyright information

Accurate metadata helps Spotify’s algorithm and curators in recommending your music to the right audience.

Aim for eye-catching album artwork

Your album artwork is the first visual impression of your music. It needs to be high-quality, eye-catching, and professionally designed. Spotify has specific requirements for album artwork:

• Resolution – Minimum of 3000 x 3000 pixels
• File format – JPEG or PNG
• Content – No blurry or pixelated images; the text should match the metadata

Consider hiring a professional graphic designer to create artwork that truly represents the essence of your music.

Clarify ownership and agreements

Ensure that all contributors, such as session musicians, songwriters, and producers, have signed agreements specifying their rights and shares. This step prevents future legal disputes and ensures smooth royalty payments.

2. Choose a digital distributor

To release music on Spotify, you need a digital music distributor. These companies serve as intermediaries, delivering your music to Spotify and other streaming platforms like Apple Music and Amazon Music. Here’s how to choose the right one for your needs.

Why do you need a distributor?

Spotify does not accept direct uploads from artists, which is why you need a digital distributor. These distributors ensure that your music meets all platform standards and regulations. They also handle the distribution of your music files, metadata, and album artwork.

Top music distributors

Choosing the right distributor depends on your needs, budget, and how frequently you plan to release music. Here’s a brief overview of some popular options:

• CD Baby – One of the first digital distributors for independent artists. CD Baby charges a one-time fee per release and takes a small commission on royalties. It’s known for its reliability and comprehensive services, including Spotify pre-save campaigns and quick delivery times.
• DistroKid – Ideal for artists who release music frequently. DistroKid charges an annual fee for unlimited uploads and takes no commission on royalties. It offers features like payment splitting and fast delivery to Spotify.
• Soundrop – Great for artists on a budget as it does not charge an upfront fee. However, it takes a higher commission on royalties. Soundrop is also known for its ease in releasing cover songs.
• Songtradr – Initially started as a sync licensing service, Songtradr now offers music distribution with additional features like royalty-free music and sync opportunities. It charges a distribution fee and takes a commission on royalties.

Check out Spotify's recommended distributors for more options.

Costs and commissions

The cost of distributing your music can vary widely:

• Upfront fees – Some distributors, like CD Baby, charge a one-time fee for each release (e.g., $9.95 for a single, $29 for an album).
• Annual fees – Others, like DistroKid, charge an annual fee (e.g., $19.99/year for one artist).
• Commissions – Some distributors take a percentage of your royalties (e.g., Soundrop takes 15%).

Choosing the right distributor involves balancing these costs with the services offered. Compare different distributors to find the one that best fits your needs and budget.

Timeframe for distribution

Submit your music to the distributor well in advance of your planned release date. Most distributors recommend submitting your music at least four weeks before the release date. This timeframe allows for any potential issues to be resolved and gives you ample time to pitch your songs to Spotify playlists.

Additional services

Some distributors offer additional services that can help you promote and monetise your music:

• Spotify pre-save campaigns – Encourage fans to save your music before it’s released, ensuring it appears in their libraries on release day.
• Payment splitting – Automatically divide royalties among contributors.
• Sync licensing – Opportunities to have your music featured in TV shows, films, and commercials.

Evaluate the costs, services, and additional features different distributors offer to find the best fit for your music career.

3. Upload your music

Once you've chosen your digital distributor, it's time to upload music. This step ensures your tracks are properly formatted and ready for distribution on Spotify and other streaming platforms.

Prepare your files

Ensure your music files meet the required standards:

• Audio format – Use high-quality formats like .WAV or .FLAC to maintain sound quality.
• Metadata – Ensure all metadata (track titles, artist name, genre, etc.) is accurate and complete.
• Album artwork – Your cover art should meet specifications: minimum 3000 x 3000 pixels and in JPEG or PNG format.

Upload your tracks

Log in to your digital distributor’s platform and follow their specific instructions to upload your music:

• Select your files – Upload your audio files, making sure they are correctly labelled.
• Enter metadata – Input all required information, such as song titles, artist name, and genre. Accurate metadata helps Spotify’s algorithm recommend your music to the right listeners.
• Upload album artwork – Add your cover art, ensuring it meets all specifications and is visually appealing.

Review and submit

Before finalising your upload, thoroughly review all the details:

• Check audio quality – Ensure there are no glitches or issues with your files.
• Verify metadata – Double-check all information for accuracy.
• Confirm artwork – Make sure your album artwork is correctly formatted and visually compelling.

Once you’ve reviewed everything, submit your music. Your distributor will then handle the distribution process, ensuring your tracks are delivered to Spotify and other streaming platforms.

Monitor your submission

After submission, keep track of your release status through your distributor’s dashboard. Many distributors provide real-time updates, allowing you to monitor progress and address any potential issues promptly.

4. Set a release date

Choosing the right release date is crucial for maximising the impact of your music. Here’s how to plan strategically for a successful launch.

Get the timing right

Select a release date at least four weeks in advance. This timeframe allows for proper processing and distribution of your music. It also provides enough time to pitch your songs to Spotify playlists. Avoid major holidays or dates when high-profile artists are releasing new music to reduce competition and increase visibility.

Coordinate with promotion

Align your release date with your promotional activities. Planning your marketing strategy around this date helps build anticipation and ensures your audience is aware of the upcoming release. Use social media campaigns, email newsletters, and other promotional efforts to generate excitement.

Monitor and make adjustments

Keep an eye on industry trends and be ready to adjust your release date if necessary. Flexibility is important, especially if unexpected events occur that could impact your launch. Staying informed about upcoming releases from other artists and potential industry disruptions helps you choose the best possible release date.

5. Tips for music promotion

Promoting your music effectively is essential to reaching new listeners and expanding your fanbase. Here’s how to make the most out of your release on Spotify and other streaming platforms.

Update your artist profile

Ensure your artist profile on Spotify is up to date. This includes adding new photos, updating your bio, and linking your social media accounts. An engaging artist profile helps attract music fans and keeps them informed about your latest releases and activities​.

Leverage social media

Use your social media platforms to promote your new music. Share snippets, behind-the-scenes content, and engage with your audience regularly. Social media is a powerful tool for music marketing and helps build a direct connection with your fans.

Pitch songs to playlists

Submit your music for playlist consideration on Spotify. Getting featured on popular playlists can significantly increase your streams and expose your music to a broader audience. Highlight key details about your track, such as genre and mood, to increase your chances of being selected.

Collaborate with influencers and other artists

Partner with influencers and other emerging artists to promote your music. Collaborations can introduce your music to new audiences and enhance your credibility in the music industry. Use Spotify’s tools like Marquee and Showcase to boost visibility.

Set up pre-save campaigns

Pre-save campaigns ensure your music appears in your fans’ libraries on release day. Many digital distributors offer tools for pre-save campaigns. Promote these campaigns through your social media channels and email lists to maximise engagement and build anticipation.

Engage with your audience

Interact with your fans by responding to comments, hosting live sessions, and creating exclusive content. Engaging with your audience builds a loyal fanbase and encourages them to share your music with others.

Use promotional tools

Explore the promotional tools offered by your digital music distributor and streaming services. These tools like can help you reach a larger audience and maximise the impact of your release.

Conclusion

Releasing music on Spotify is more than just a technical process; it's an opportunity to share your creativity with the world and connect with a diverse audience. Each step, from preparing your tracks to engaging with fans, refines your artistic vision and builds your presence in the music industry.Enjoy the journey of bringing your music to life on Spotify, and celebrate each milestone along the way. Your dedication and passion will shine through in every note, making your release a memorable experience for you and your listeners. Who knows, if your music starts making waves that big record label may be a call away!