How to Release Your Original Music: Upload Process

 In the second instalment of our three-part series on how to release your original music, we’re delving into the upload process and things you might want to consider in advance.

When it comes to releasing your music, your should have your ducks in order before going through the process. 

music upload online
This week we're uploading the track to my music distributor, Amuse.io

How do I create the Artwork for the song? 

You should have the artwork done in advance and it should fit the specifications for your distributor (i.e. Amuse,io require an image of 3000×3000 pixels). 

You can hire someone to create your artwork, or create your artwork using an editing tool, such as adobe photoshop. There’s also a a number of free editing softwares online where you can do basic editing. 

You should consider a number of things in your artwork:

  • Make sure the artist name and song/album title are clear
  • Ensure you have the correct image size
  • Be careful you do not include brand logos who may not want to associate with you
  • Faces will typically draw more attention than images or landscapes (yes I know I’m not but mine is part of my brand)
Take your time when submitting your music to make sure you enter the right information

Things you should know before uploading your original music 

When uploading, you’ll need to establish key information. Make sure you are sure of the following factors and fill in the details correctly: 

  • Track name
  • Track format (typically .wav or .aiff format in 44.1Khz) 
  • Performers and contributors (i.e. any engineers who may have royalties)
  • Composers
  • Explicit content (this can prevent your song is certain libraries or online content)
the social media settings for submitting original music
Social media is a powerful tool for marketing your music so choose a start time wisely

How to get the best out of your original music with Social media

If you have exclusive rights to your songs they can be monetised through YouTube and other social media platforms:

  • Youtube may play ads before your song, so you are entitled to a share of that revenue. Your distributor should collate this for you. 
  • Social media start time is important for when you share the song and encourage others to use in their content. Make sure to choose significant part of the song such as a chorus or drop. 

  • Submit directly – you can submit to Spotify playlists, who will push your music if you’re successful. Be sure to enter the details carefully to the right genre and audiences
  • Reach out to independent playlist curators – identify playlists on your platforms and research the curator. Find out their contact details and send them a personal message with the song and you may be surprised with the results!  
  • Use submission platforms – SubmitHub, Playlist Push, Soundplate and Groover are all services where you upload and they will submit your work for you. 
  • BBC Introducing – create an account and submit to the BBC. Make sure you have a compelling reason to help convince whoever listens to play your song. I’ve had four releases played and I’m almost certain they were swayed by my rationale…! 
Submitting to playlists can be one of the most effective ways to market your music

How to submit to online playlists

Editors note: this is the first time I’ll be doing this myself! One of the benefits of me writing this content is I’m forced to learn more about being a musician so I can pass on to you guys! 

Typically I’ve relied on my core fan base to listen to my songs and posted through social media exclusively – this time around I’ve done some research into online submissions: 

It’s an art form to submit to playlists and all links into creating hype for your newest release. 

 Keep an eye out for next week’s article and sign up to the newsletter to find out more!