NEW Artist Guide: 10 Essential Steps for a Successful Song DROP

As the music industry continues to evolve, artists must adapt their strategies to ensure their song releases make the biggest possible impact. In 2024, it’s more important than ever to have a well-thought-out plan. Here’s a comprehensive guide outlining 10 crucial steps every artist should take to prepare for a song release.

1. Choose the Right Music Distributor:

Your choice of music distributor is pivotal. It’s how your music gets on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and more. Research different distributors to find the one that best aligns with your needs and financial model​​. for the artists that we manage through ripe–tanjerines like trill manny, we like to use distrokid.

2. Launch a Pre-Save Campaign:

Pre-save campaigns allow fans to save your track before its release, boosting its visibility and stream count from the outset. This is a key strategy to generate early momentum​​.

3. Craft and Promote a Catchy Hook:

A compelling hook can make or break a song. Promote your hook across all channels – in your music video, social media, and press releases, ensuring it resonates with your audience​​.

4. Create Impactful Digital Artwork:

In the digital age, artwork and imagery are crucial. Design visually appealing and platform-optimized artwork for your single to make a lasting impression​​. if you ever need help, our team offers design services!

5. Utilize Playlist Pitching OR PR Services:

Getting on popular playlists is a powerful way to reach new audiences. Engage with playlist pitching services to enhance your song's reach and listenership​​. BE weary as a lot of these companies are selling botted streams. do your research before investing any money.

6. Develop a Robust Music Promotion Strategy:

A well-planned promotion strategy is key. Set a budget and focus on targeting your audience effectively to maximize the impact of your release​​.

7. Register Your Music:

Ensure you've copyrighted your music and registered it with the appropriate publishing organizations. This is crucial for collecting royalties and protecting your work​​​​​​. MOST artists use bmi or ascap.

8. Update Your Online Presence:

Your streaming platform profiles and social media channels should reflect your upcoming release. Regular updates and engagement with your audience are vital​​. now, more than ever, your music can be heard by endless amounts of people online. reels, youtube shorts, and tiktok are key. try creating some clips about your songwriting process, show the supporters your bts content, and create some lyric videos over your favorite part of the song.

9. Organize a Release Event:

A release event, whether a live show, livestream, or listening party, can significantly enhance audience engagement and celebration of your new music​​.

10. Prepare Marketing Materials:

A press release and a folder of promotional assets like high-quality photos, bios, MP3 files, and cover art are essential for effective marketing and media outreach​​.

Releasing a song in 2024 requires more than just musical talent; it requires strategic planning and execution. By following these 10 steps, artists can significantly increase their chances of a successful song release. Stay ahead of the curve, engage with your audience, and let your music make the impact it deserves. Oh–and most importantly be authentic!

we’ll be diving deeper into each of these topics in our newsletter!