Spotify’s Preferred Music Distributors: A Comprehensive Guide

Aug 3

Spotify, a continually expanding music streaming service with significant global reach, attracts millions of daily listeners.

For aspiring musicians and songwriters looking to feature their music on Spotify, this comprehensive guide will address how to achieve this and the benefits of using one of Spotify's preferred music distributors for payment.

How to Get Your Music on Spotify

In today's digital era, independent musicians can share their creative works with a global audience through various music distribution channels.

Spotify, a leading music streaming platform, offers ambitious artists a prime opportunity to gain exposure and expand their fanbase.

However, the process of getting your music onto Spotify can be daunting if you are unfamiliar with the essential steps.

This guide outlines the key measures needed to get your music on Spotify, from creating an artist profile to promoting your music across the platform. Follow these essential steps:

Create a Spotify Artist Profile

Begin your journey on Spotify by creating a personalized artist profile. This profile showcases your musical achievements and provides information about you as an artist.

Ensure the photos are high quality and the descriptions are clear and engaging, making your page stand out. Also, include links to your social media accounts or websites to keep your followers updated.

Sign Up with a Music Distribution Service

Spotify does not allow direct uploads of audio files by artists. Therefore, you need to select a music distribution service.

This service will manage the process of getting your music onto digital platforms like Apple Music and Amazon Music, in addition to Spotify.

There are numerous distribution services available, each with its pricing and features; be sure to research thoroughly to find the one that best suits your needs.

Upload Your Music and Artwork

After registering with a distribution service, upload your music and artwork. Ensure your music meets Spotify’s technical specifications, such as the correct format and bitrate.

Follow the platform’s visual guidelines, like a minimum size of 640 x 640 pixels and avoiding explicit content.

Optionally, you can upload a music video to your profile to help promote your music.

Choose Your Release Date

When uploading your music, you will need to set a release date. This is when your music will be available on Spotify and other streaming services. Select a date that allows enough time for promotion and creating anticipation before the release.

Review and Submit Your Music

Before submitting your music, review it to ensure it meets your standards. Verify that your metadata, including track titles, artist names, and album titles, is accurate.

Once satisfied, submit your music to the distribution service for review. They will then forward it to Spotify for approval, which can take up to a week.

Promote Your Music on Spotify

Once your music is live on Spotify, promoting it is crucial to increase visibility and attract new fans. Create playlists, collaborate with other artists, and engage with fans on social media. Use Spotify for Artists to manage your performance and track your progress over time.

Use Spotify for Artists to Monitor Your Performance

Spotify for Artists provides data on streams, followers, and demographics. Use this information to track your progress and make informed decisions about your marketing strategy.

This tool also allows you to update your profile, bio, and photos, and submit new releases.

Collaborate with Other Artists and Curators

Working with other artists and curators can enhance your visibility on Spotify. Connect with fellow musicians for collaborations like remixes or features.

You can also submit your music to playlist curators to reach new listeners.

Utilize Spotify Playlists and Promotional Opportunities

Spotify offers various promotional methods, such as playlist placements and promotions. Submit your music to Spotify’s editorial team for consideration in their official playlists or create your own playlists to share with fans.

Additionally, you can run paid promotions on Spotify to reach new listeners.

Regularly Update Your Artist Profile

Keep your artist profile up-to-date with new content and releases to maintain fan engagement. Upload new releases promptly and refresh your profile with updated photos, videos, and bio details. Use Spotify for Artists to communicate with your followers and inform them about your latest updates.

Maximizing Your Earnings on Spotify: Understanding Payment and Revenue Streams

Spotify compensates artists based on the number of streams their music receives. The platform uses an algorithm that considers factors like the number of plays, the listener's country, and their type of Spotify subscription.

Spotify distributes approximately 70% of its revenue to rights holders, including record labels, music distributors, and artists. The amount an artist earns depends on their agreement with their record label or distributor.

Deciphering Revenue Streams on Spotify

Spotify offers multiple income streams for musicians:

- **Streaming Revenue**: Based on the number of streams your music accumulates.

- **Mechanical Royalties**: Paid to songwriters and publishers for the use of their compositions.

- **Performance Royalties**: Earned when your tracks are played on public platforms, collected by Performance Rights Organizations (PROs).

- **Sync Licensing**: When your music is used in films, TV shows, video games, or commercials.

Registering Your Music

Independent artists should ensure their music is registered with the relevant organizations to receive all the royalties they are entitled to.

- **Sign Up Your Compositions with a PRO**: Collects performance royalties for songwriters and composers.

- **Register Your Recordings with a Distributor or Record Label**: Ensures your music is available on major streaming platforms.

Monitor Your Streaming Earnings

Track your streaming earnings using services like Audiam or Songtrust to manage your royalties from international sources and ensure your music is correctly licensed.

Stay Informed About Industry Developments

Keep up with the latest music industry trends to maximize your earnings and opportunities. For example, the US established The Mechanical Licensing Collective (MLC) in 2021 to streamline mechanical royalties.

Boosting Your Music’s Reach: Utilizing Social Media for Exposure

Leverage social media to broaden your reach and attract a larger audience. Build a consistent and engaging online presence, interact with your audience, and optimize each platform to its fullest potential.

The Benefits of Using a Preferred Spotify Distributor

Using a preferred Spotify distributor can maximize your earnings, expand your visibility, and simplify the distribution process. They can help you navigate Spotify’s algorithms, promote your music to playlist curators, and provide valuable insights from your streaming data.

Best Music Distribution Services for Independent Artists

Spotify recommends several digital music distributors for independent artists, including DistroKid, TuneCore, AWAL, Ditto, LANDR, Stem, Symphonic, CD Baby, Reverbnation, and Freshtunes. Each offers unique features and pricing, so compare them to find the best fit for your needs.

Wrapping Up

Uploading your music on Spotify is crucial for reaching a global audience and generating income. Follow the steps outlined in this guide to ensure your music is distributed correctly, registered with the appropriate organizations, and promoted effectively.

MRNA Music House can help independent artists by providing expert advice, promotional strategies, and connections to industry professionals, allowing musicians to focus on their craft while navigating the music industry confidently.

Edward Morton

Edward Morton is a passionate music blogger known for his insightful reviews and eclectic taste. With a background in both classical music and modern production, Edward brings a unique perspective to his writing, blending technical knowledge with a deep appreciation for all genres. He started his blog, "Norton's Notes," in 2015, quickly gaining a dedicated following for his honest, detailed critiques and his ability to uncover hidden gems in the music world.

Edward grew up in a musical family in Seattle, where he learned to play the piano and guitar at a young age. His love for music led him to study music theory and composition at the University of Washington. After graduating, he worked as a freelance music producer, which gave him an insider's view of the industry and fueled his desire to share his insights through writing.

Edward's writing is known for its eloquence and depth, often exploring the emotional and cultural contexts of the music he reviews. He is a regular contributor to several well-known music magazines and websites, and his work has been featured in Rolling Stone, Pitchfork, and NPR Music.

In addition to his writing, Edward is an avid vinyl collector and hosts a weekly podcast where he interviews musicians and industry insiders. His ability to connect with artists and convey their stories has made his podcast a favorite among music enthusiasts.

Outside of his professional life, Edward enjoys hiking in the Pacific Northwest, attending live concerts, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. His passion for music and his commitment to sharing it with the world continue to inspire his readers and listeners alike.