Many budding artists have music that they want to release but they don’t have the know how to in regards to getting it onto services such as Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple music and many others. Today we will teach you how to your song on an online store such as Spotify.
What is a DSP:
Firstly we will discuss what a DSP is. A DSP stands for “Digital Streaming Platform” and is an online platform that provides streaming or download services to consumers, music listeners, and fans. These platforms include streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, as well as online stores like iTunes or Amazon Music. We will be talking about specifically Distrokid; however the same steps apply on other DSP’s such as Ditto.
Step 1: Sign Up
Head to Distrokid’s website using our affiliate link and choose a plan. By using this link you get 7% off your first years membership, allowing you to start your music journey at a low cost.
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Musician (£22.99/year): Unlimited songs for one artist, perfect for solo acts.
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Musician Plus (£45.99/year): Adds custom release dates and stats for two artists.
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Ultimate (£99.99/year): Covers up to 100 artists, great for collectives.
Most new artists start with Musician due to its low cost and simplicity.
Step 2: Upload your Music Files
Before uploading, make sure your tracks are ready:
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Have a formatted MP3 or WAV files, at least 16-bit, 44.1 kHz (CD quality).
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Double check that you’re uploading your finished copy.
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Metadata: Name files clearly (“YourSongTitle.mp3”) and have artwork ready (JPEG, 3000×3000 pixels, square).
Step 3: Upload Your Track
Log into DistroKid and hit the “Upload” button. Here’s what to do:
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Add Files: Drag your song file(s) into the upload box. For an EP, upload all tracks at once.
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Enter Details: Fill in song title, artist name/s, genre (e.g., Rock, Hip-Hop, Indie Pop), and language. Add co-writers or producers if you split royalties—DistroKid handles payments.
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Set Release Date: Choose “as soon as possible” (7-10 days) or a future date for pre-saves.
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Select Platforms: Pick where your music goes—Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, etc. Select all for max reach; DistroKid distributes to 150+ stores.
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Add Artwork: Upload your JPEG cover.
Step 4: Add Extras (Optional)
DistroKid offers additional features:
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YouTube Content ID (£4.99/year per song): Earns money if your track’s used in a YouTube video.
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Store Maximizer: Auto-sends your track to playlist curators for a fee. See if its worthwhile for you.
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Lyrics: Add lyrics for Apple Music or Instagram Stories.
Step 5: Pay and Submit
After you review your uploads. Hit “Submit.” DistroKid charges your card only when you release (no extra cost per song on the Musician plans). You’ll get a confirmation email, and tracks typically hit stores in 7-10 days, sometimes faster for Spotify (2-5 days). If rejected (e.g., for uncleared samples), DistroKid emails you to fix it—check your spam.
Step 6: Promote and Earn
Once your music is live on Spotify, Apple Music, and more. Promote your songs on social media platforms and ensure ensure you’re registered to PRS so you don’t miss out on money when your music is played at a venue or on radio. Distrokid pays monthly so ensure you reinvest your earnings.
Troubleshooting Tips:
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Track Not Live?: Check DistroKid’s dashboard for status—delays happen with Apple Music (up to 14 days). Email support@distrokid.com if your still stuck.
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Wrong Details?: Edit metadata post-release via DistroKid’s “Fixer” tool (£1 per change).
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Low Streams?: Pitch to playlists via Spotify for Artists (free) or promote on TikTok. One viral clip can add 10,000 plays.
Why DistroKid is a Go-to for new artists:
DistroKid’s simple, cheap, and artist-friendly—£22.99 gets you unlimited uploads, no label or platform taking 80% like old-school deals.
Get Started:
Sign up at distrokid.com, prep a WAV and JPEG, and upload in 10 minutes. Promote your songs on social media with #UKMusic, and you’re in the game. Every stream is step closer to achieve your dreams!
