Despite streaming royalty debates, Spotify remains an essential platform for music distribution. Here's how to release your music on Spotify effectively:

Prepare Your Music Release

• Ensure professional production quality, mixing, and mastering
• Create high-resolution album artwork that matches your artist name
• Prepare metadata (genre, BPM, songwriters, publishing info)
• Secure agreements from all contributors (musicians, producers, songwriters)

Select a Digital Distributor

Top distributors and their key features:

CD Baby:

• Single: $9.95 + $5 UPC
• Album: $29 + $20 UPC
• 9% commission
• 1-2 day delivery

DistroKid:

• $19.99/year unlimited releases
• 0% commission
• Payment splitting
• 2-7 day delivery

Soundrop:

• Free distribution
• 15% commission
• Cover song friendly
• 3-5 day delivery

Songtradr:

• $20/year unlimited releases
• 0-10% commission
• Licensing opportunities
• 2-7 day delivery

Amuse:

• Free or $60/year Pro
• 0% commission
• Label opportunities
• 14-day delivery (Pro)

Set Up Spotify for Artists

1. Visit Spotify for Artists website
2. Choose "Artists or manager"
3. Sign in to Spotify
4. Claim your profile
5. Wait for verification

Maximize Your Release

1. Submit to Spotify playlist editors through Spotify for Artists
2. Launch a pre-save campaign for:
   • Automatic follower acquisition
   • Email collection
   • Location data
   • Algorithm optimization

Best Practices

• Submit music 4 weeks before release
• Ensure all metadata is accurate
• Verify rights clearance
• Monitor analytics through Spotify for Artists
• Engage with your audience through playlists and social features

Remember to maintain consistent releases and engage with your audience to maximize your Spotify presence.

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