Streaming music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and SoundCloud have made it possible for up-and-coming artists to distribute their music to a global audience – no record deal required.

Here we break down the basics of how to get your music on Apple Music, Spotify, and other popular platforms, setting you up with a step-by-step guide that makes it easy to start making a name for yourself. Let’s jump right in and get started!

How to Upload Music to Spotify and Other Streaming Services

Want to know how to post songs on Spotify and other streaming platforms? Here are the steps you need to know:

• Partner with a music distributor.

Since there isn’t a way to directly upload music to Spotify, you will need to work with a distribution company to get your music released. There are many different services available, which we cover more in-depth in the next section, called “Best Music Distribution Companies.”

• Decide on a release type.

You might have a whole album to release, or you could be starting with just a single song – it is up to you.

• Get your music ready.

Mix and master your music for streaming to provide a first-class listening experience. (We explain some basics in the section, “How to Get Your Music Ready…”)

• Submit all required information.

No matter what platform you’re releasing music on, you’ll need to provide key details such as the artist’s name, collaborators, song title, release date, and more.

• Upload the audio file.

Then, you’ll upload the file(s) to your distribution service provider. Usually, you’ll also enter additional details, such as the metadata, at this stage.

• Choose release platform(s).

You’ll then be able to pick which music stores and streaming sites you want your music to be available, with options including Spotify, Apple Music, and others. In most cases, you want to choose as many as possible, so your release is available in many places.

• Finalize and release!

Once you double (and triple) check that everything is correct, you can submit your release! 

Best Music Distribution Companies

Unless you’re one of the lucky few to be signed with a record label, you’ll need to partner with a music distribution service to post your songs to most streaming platforms and online music stores. There are many different options to consider, so you can find one that suits your needs.

Some of the top music distribution services include:

• Amuse
• CD Baby
• Distrokid
• Tunecore
• Record Union
• Ditto
• Spinn Up
• United Masters
• AWAL
• Level

Most of these services charge a fee or a certain percentage of royalties. However, it can be a smart investment to make in the future of your career.

How to Get Your Music Ready for Spotify, Apple Music, & Tidal

First and foremost, the most important step in prepping music for Spotify and other platforms is ensuring you’re presenting your very best work. The competition is fierce, so you’ll want to be confident that you lead with music that you are truly proud of.

On a technical level, you’ll always need to ensure that your music has been properly mixed and mastered. The audio files should be in a high-quality WAV format (44.1khz, 16-bit) that has been specifically mastered for optimal streaming sound quality.

After choosing your music distribution service, confirm the file requirements for cover art (for example, file type, shape, and pixel size). Upload original cover art to set your music apart. You will also submit all important information about your music, including the song title, artist, genre, and other important information. Once you finalize all the details, you can complete the release, and your music will be ready to debut on streaming platforms. Depending on your distributor, your music will appear within a few days to a few weeks.

Want to Work in Digital Media Production?

Whether you’ve chosen music or another digital medium, a career in digital media production can offer an exciting and creative future.

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Start a Digital Media Production Career Today!

There’s no reason to wait any longer to begin pursuing your career dreams – especially because you can be on your way with just a few clicks. Apply online to join our Digital Media Production training and education program now!

Featured Image: Nejron Photo / Stock-Asso /Artem Onoprienko / Dragon Images / Davizro Photography / Aleksey Boyko