Getting your music onto Spotify is a major milestone for any musician. With millions of listeners worldwide, Spotify offers independent artists a powerful platform to reach new audiences, build a fanbase, and grow a sustainable music career.
The good news? You don’t need a record label to get started. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide on how musicians can register and release their music on Spotify.
Step 1: Understand How Spotify Accepts Music
Spotify does not allow artists to upload music directly.
Instead, you need a music distributor (also called an aggregator). Distributors deliver your music to Spotify and other streaming platforms, handle metadata, and collect royalties on your behalf.
Popular distributors include:
Each distributor has different pricing models (annual fee, per-release fee, or revenue share), so choose one that fits your goals and budget.
Step 2: Prepare Your Music and Assets
Before uploading, make sure you have everything ready:
Audio Files
- High-quality WAV files (usually 16-bit or 24-bit, 44.1 kHz)
Cover Art
- Minimum 3000 x 3000 pixels
- JPG or PNG format
- No blurry images, URLs, or social media handles
Metadata
- Artist name (consistent spelling everywhere)
- Track title(s)
- Release date
- Genre and language
- Composer and lyricist details
Taking time here avoids delays and ensures your release looks professional.
Step 3: Upload Your Music via a Distributor
Once you’ve chosen your distributor:
- Create an account on their platform
- Upload your audio files and cover art
- Enter all metadata carefully
- Select Spotify (and other platforms, if you wish)
- Choose a release date
Pro tip: Upload your music at least 2–3 weeks in advance to allow time for approvals and playlist pitching.
Step 4: Claim Your Spotify for Artists Profile
After your music is scheduled for release, you can claim your artist profile.
How to do it:
- Visit Spotify for Artists
- Log in or sign up using your Spotify account
- Search for your artist name
- Verify your identity (usually through your distributor or social links)
Once approved, you’ll get access to:
- Artist profile customization (bio, photos, social links)
- Real-time streaming stats
- Audience demographics
- Playlist pitching tools
Step 5: Customize Your Artist Profile
Your Spotify profile is your digital identity.
Make it count by:
- Writing a compelling artist bio
- Uploading high-quality artist photos
- Adding Canvas (short looping visuals for tracks)
- Featuring playlists or upcoming releases
A polished profile builds credibility and keeps listeners engaged.
Step 6: Pitch Your Music to Spotify Playlists
Spotify for Artists allows you to pitch unreleased tracks to Spotify’s editorial team.
To pitch:
- Go to “Music” → “Upcoming”
- Select a track
- Share details about mood, genre, language, and story
Even if you don’t land on an editorial playlist, pitching helps Spotify’s algorithm understand your music better.
Step 7: Promote Your Release
Uploading is just the beginning.
Promote your music by:
- Sharing Spotify links on social media
- Creating short-form video content (Reels, Shorts)
- Collaborating with other artists
- Encouraging fans to save and add your track to playlists
Consistency and storytelling play a huge role in discoverability.
Step 8: Track Performance and Grow
Use Spotify for Artists to monitor:
- Streams and listener growth
- Top cities and countries
- Playlist additions
- Listener retention
These insights help you plan future releases, tours, and marketing strategies.
Final Thoughts
Putting your music on Spotify is no longer reserved for major-label artists. With the right distributor, preparation, and promotion, independent musicians can share their sound with a global audience.
Focus on quality, consistency, and connection—and let the platforms work for you.
Your music deserves to be heard.
Spotify is just the beginning. 🎶