How to Prepare Your Songs for Digital Release
If you’re reading this, you’re most likely here because you’re a songwriter who wants to prepare a song for release. You want to know more about the distribution process, and how to put your songs out into the world.
As much as I know about music publishing, the digital game has changed things over the years. For this blog, I interviewed my social media manager - Myylo - about how he prepares his singles for release:
“When do you know when your song is ready to be released?
When you feel good about the topline, you’re ready to master your song. When you have a mastered recording, you’re ready to plan putting it out. Before you put your song out, you want to have your album art done. Generally, about 8 weeks ahead of time.
Ultimately though - when YOU love a song, that’s the benchmark for releasing it.
“How many weeks before releasing it?”
8 weeks.
Most distribution sites demand 4-8 weeks, to be able to upload ahead of time.
“What do you do to prepare a song release?”
Plan your release date carefully, and don’t release during busy seasons. Prepare a press release about your song 4-8 weeks ahead of time.
Then about 1-2 weeks ahead of time, send an email to your fans about your song coming out. Be personal in your newsletter. Tell the story of the song and go in depth about the process. People who are signed up for your email list want to know these things.
Focus on driving Spotify pre-saves, to have engagement on the song the day of the release. That helps with Spotify’s algorithm.
“How do you promote songs to get traffic on the day of your release?”
Again, focus on Spotify pre-saves. Submit your song to Spotify’s editorial board to get on playlists. Spotify is also more likely to reward songs associated with projects.
“What about music distribution sites?”
CDBaby or TuneCore will upload your songs to all the leading streaming platforms for you, including: Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, Amazon, Pandora, YouTube, and Deezer.
“What should you do before releasing a song?”
Register with a PRO. Copyright your songs. Make sure the split sheet is correct.
Playing live is a great way to feel out if your songs are up to snuff.
Last, remember to keep your early branding cohesive. Consistent branding is more important that quality of production equipment.
If you’re not sure whether your song is ready for release, or want help preparing your song for release, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me. I’m happy to answer any more questions you have one-on-one, to help you better navigate the music industry as an aspiring songwriter or artist.
