How To Distribute Your Music Digitally (Spotify, Apple Music, Etc): A Quick-Start Guide

The digital music distribution landscape is an ever-growing cyberspace home to countless tracks. It is also a critical launch pad for any artist looking to expand their audience and set off on a journey toward success.

There is little doubt about it: pioneering your music into this digital space is essential to tap into a vast, interconnected network of listeners. And yet, standing out from the background noise and establishing yourself as the next big thing isn’t easy - without the help of a specialist. 

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the digital distribution journey from Spotify to Apple Music.

Understanding Digital Music Distribution

Digital music distribution refers to the process of publishing your songs or albums using digital distribution channels and platforms. Some of the key players in the industry include Spotify, Apple Music, and Deezer, but also social media channels like TikTok and YouTube. 

Leveraging digital music distribution is necessary for today’s artists looking to compete in a crowded sector. What’s more, these powerful tools can provide artists with a global reach, a steady stream of royalties, and a real-time view of their fanbase's evolution.

Preparing Your Music for Distribution

If you’ve chosen to distribute your music through digital channels, your songs or albums must be thoroughly polished, perfectly recorded, and mastered. This level of quality will ensure a great listening experience and will allow you to compete against more established artists. 

When distributing your music digitally, you’ll also need to obtain the necessary rights and permissions, which will allow you to avoid legal risks and liabilities. Now you are nearly ready to go: what’s left to do is create high-quality album artwork and metadata - and choose the right distributor or aggregator!

Steps to Distribute Your Music

When you are ready to begin distributing your music online, the journey ahead can feel overwhelming. However, there are four easy steps to take to set yourself up for success: 

1. Sign Up With a Digital Distributor

Sign up with a digital distributor or aggregator to find guidance and leverage their network of contacts in the industry.

2. Upload Your Music 

Upload your music and accompanying metadata in formats that are accepted by most platforms, so you don’t have to compromise on audio quality. 

3. Select the Best Platforms

Select the best platforms for distribution (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.) for your needs, music style, and target audience. 

4. Make a Plan

Set release dates and pricing options to build an income stream from your songs. 

Promoting Your Music

Once you’ve launched your music on digital distribution platforms, you’ll need to promote your singles or albums, to optimize and build your fanbase. To do so, there’s more than one strategy available to emerging and established artists alike: 

• Create a profile on social media and build an online community

• Consider investing in ads on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram 

• Use free platforms like YouTube to generate interest and engagement

• Engage with your listeners regularly through direct messages, comments, and channels (i.e.: Telegram channels). 

• Collaborate with other artists and influencers

• Pay special attention to playlist placements and consider working with curators to ensure that your songs will reach the right listeners. 

Legal and Financial Considerations

Publishing a new song or album can have legal and financial implications. Be sure to work with an accountant, understand revenue distribution, and learn about royalty payments. 

From your part, be sure to avoid liabilities by complying with copyright laws and licensing agreements. If you are in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice when necessary. Your entire career may be on the line!

Record Your Music at a Professional Recording Studio in Santa Monica

The digital music distribution process may not be straightforward, but it can be a truly rewarding one! These platforms can certainly be powerful tools that can launch you into success - but working with a specialist may prove invaluable to reach your goals. 

After all, a quality soundtrack is the first step to success on digital music distribution channels! The specialists at lmnl studios provide high-quality recording studios and equipment that are open 24/7 and can guide you in the process of recording premium-quality soundtracks ready for distribution. 

Contact us to get started.