How to Get Your Music on Spotify: Complete Guide for Independent Artists

How to Get Your Music on Spotify

To get your music on Spotify, you need to use a music distributor like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby, as Spotify doesn't accept direct uploads from artists. These services deliver your tracks to Spotify and other streaming platforms, usually within 1-2 weeks. Once live, claim your Spotify for Artists profile to access analytics and pitch songs to playlists.

Key Takeaways

• Spotify requires a third-party distributor; you cannot upload directly
• Popular distributors: DistroKid ($22.99/year unlimited), TuneCore ($14.99/year per single, $29.99 per album), CD Baby ($9.95 one-time per single)
• Allow 2-4 weeks before your release date to upload
• Claim your Spotify for Artists profile immediately after your first release goes live
• Pitch unreleased tracks to editorial playlists 7+ days before release via Spotify for Artists

What is a music distributor and why do I need one?

A music distributor is a service that delivers your music to streaming platforms and digital stores on your behalf. Spotify, Apple Music, and other DSPs (Digital Service Providers) don't work directly with individual artists—they only accept content from approved distributors.

Your distributor:

• Uploads your music, artwork, and metadata to platforms
• Collects streaming royalties and pays you
• Handles ISRC codes (unique track identifiers)
• Manages takedowns and updates

Which music distributor should I choose?

The best distributor depends on your release frequency and budget. Here's a comparison of the most popular options:

DistroKid is the most cost-effective for artists releasing multiple singles per year. TuneCore charges per release but includes YouTube Content ID. CD Baby uses one-time fees instead of annual renewals.

Step-by-Step: How to upload music to Spotify

Step 1: Choose and sign up for a distributor

Create an account with your chosen distributor. You'll need:

• Artist/band name
• Email address
• Payment method
• Tax information (for royalty payments)

Step 2: Prepare your music files and assets

Before uploading, gather:

• Audio files: WAV or FLAC format, 16-bit/44.1kHz minimum (24-bit recommended)
• Cover art: 3000x3000 pixels minimum, JPG or PNG, RGB color mode
• Metadata: Song titles, artist name, genre, release date, songwriting credits
• ISRC codes: Your distributor usually generates these automatically

Step 3: Upload your release

In your distributor's dashboard:

1. Click "Upload" or "New Release"
2. Upload audio files
3. Add cover artwork
4. Enter song titles, artist name, and album/single name
5. Select genre and subgenre
6. Choose release date (at least 2-4 weeks in the future)
7. Select platforms (always include Spotify)
8. Add lyrics if available
9. Enter songwriting and production credits

Step 4: Select Spotify as a distribution platform

Make sure Spotify is checked in your list of platforms. Most distributors include Spotify in all plans by default.

Step 5: Submit for review

Your distributor reviews submissions for quality and metadata accuracy. This usually takes 1-3 business days. If approved, your music is sent to Spotify.

Step 6: Wait for your music to go live

Spotify typically takes 1-2 weeks to process new releases after your distributor submits them. Your release will go live on the date you selected. You'll receive a notification when it's available.

How do I set up Spotify for Artists?

Claim your Spotify for Artists profile immediately after your first song goes live. This free tool gives you access to:

• Streaming statistics and listener demographics
• Playlist pitching for unreleased tracks
• Profile customization (bio, photos, social links)
• Artist pick (highlight a song, album, or playlist)
• Canvas (vertical looping video backgrounds)

To claim your profile:

1. Go to artists.spotify.com
2. Click "Get Access"
3. Search for your artist name
4. Verify your identity (options include: label/distributor email confirmation, social media link on your artist profile, or identity documents)
5. Wait 1-5 business days for approval

How do I pitch my music to Spotify editorial playlists?

You must submit your pitch through Spotify for Artists at least 7 days before your release date. Editorial playlists are curated by Spotify's team and can dramatically increase streams.

Pitching process:

1. Upload your track through your distributor with a future release date
2. Wait for it to appear in your Spotify for Artists "Upcoming" section (usually 1-2 weeks before release)
3. Click the track and select "Pitch a Song"
4. Fill out the pitch form:
   • Select one genre that best fits the track
   • Describe the song's mood, style, and instruments
   • Share the story behind the song
   • Note if you've been playlisted before
5. Submit at least 7 days before release (earlier is better)

Important: You can only pitch unreleased music. Once your song is live, you cannot pitch it to editorial playlists.

How much does Spotify pay per stream?

Spotify pays between $0.003 and $0.005 per stream on average (0.3 to 0.5 cents), though rates vary by country and subscription type.

Example earnings:

• 1,000 streams = $3 - $5
• 10,000 streams = $30 - $50
• 100,000 streams = $300 - $500
• 1,000,000 streams = $3,000 - $5,000

Your distributor collects royalties from Spotify and pays you based on their payment schedule (usually monthly or quarterly).

Note: As of April 2024, Spotify requires tracks to reach at least 1,000 streams in the previous 12 months to generate royalties. Tracks under this threshold do not pay out.

FAQ

Can I upload music to Spotify for free?

Not directly to Spotify, but some distributors like Amuse and RouteNote offer free tiers. However, paid distributors typically offer better customer support and faster delivery times.

How long does it take to get on Spotify?

2-4 weeks total: 1-3 days for distributor review + 1-2 weeks for Spotify to process. Always upload at least 3-4 weeks before your planned release date to allow buffer time.

Can I upload music to Spotify without a distributor?

No. Spotify only works with approved distributors and record labels. You cannot upload directly as an independent artist.

Do I need a record label to get on Spotify?

No. Independent artists can use distributors to release music without a label. You retain full ownership of your music.

What happens if I stop paying my distributor?

With subscription-based distributors (DistroKid, TuneCore), your music is removed from Spotify if you stop paying. CD Baby uses one-time fees, so your music stays live even if you stop releasing new tracks.

Can I change my distributor after uploading to Spotify?

Yes, but your music will be temporarily removed during the transition. You'll need to takedown releases with your old distributor and re-upload with the new one, which resets your play counts and playlist placements.

Related Guides

• How to Get Playlisted and Promote Your Spotify Release
• How to Register and Collect Music Royalties
• The Complete Anarxhy Discography

Made by an independent artist. This guide is created by Anarxhy, an alternative artist releasing music through digital distribution. Stream Anarxhy's latest releases on Spotify, Apple Music, and all platforms.