How to Submit Your Album on All Streaming Platforms Without a Distributor: A Complete Guide

Submitting your music to streaming platforms is one of the most crucial steps for any independent artist. While many musicians rely on distributors like “Deliver My Tune” to get their music onto platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, there is a way to bypass these intermediaries. By submitting your album directly to the platforms, you can retain more control over your music and potentially avoid extra fees. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to submit your album on all streaming platforms without a distributor, giving you all the necessary steps and insights to manage your music independently.

Why Submit Without a Distributor?

Most artists are familiar with music distributors like “Deliver My Tune” and other platforms that help distribute music across multiple streaming services. These distributors often charge a fee or take a percentage of your revenue in exchange for distributing your music. However, there are several compelling reasons why you might want to submit your album on all streaming platforms without a distributor:

Retain Full Control: When you distribute your music yourself, you maintain complete control over the process, including how your music is presented and when it is released.
Avoid Extra Fees: Distributors often charge for distribution, either upfront or as a percentage of your royalties. By submitting directly, you can save money.
Maximize Earnings: Without a distributor, you will receive all of your earnings directly, without having to share a portion with a third-party service.

While going distributor-free can be a bit more time-consuming and complex, it’s a worthwhile option for artists who want greater autonomy over their music career.

Step 1: Research Streaming Platforms

The first step to submit your album on all streaming platforms without a distributor is to research which platforms allow direct submissions from independent artists. Here are some of the most popular services that offer direct submissions:

Spotify: With Spotify for Artists, you can directly upload your music and manage your profile. This platform allows you to submit your music and even pitch it for inclusion in playlists.
Apple Music: Apple offers independent artists the opportunity to upload music directly through Apple Music for Artists.
SoundCloud: SoundCloud allows musicians to upload their tracks directly, which can be shared with a global audience. They also offer monetization options.
YouTube Music: Through the YouTube Studio, artists can directly upload music to YouTube Music. The platform also provides a way to promote your music with video content.
Bandcamp: Although Bandcamp is more niche, it provides independent artists with a way to sell their music directly to fans, allowing for greater control and higher profit margins.

Each platform has its own set of rules, so take the time to understand them fully to avoid any pitfalls.

Step 2: Prepare Your Music Files

To submit your album on all streaming platforms without a distributor, it’s essential to prepare your music files according to the specifications required by each platform. Here’s a list of what to keep in mind:

Audio Quality: Most platforms require your tracks in a high-quality format like WAV or FLAC. Ensure your files are free from any issues like distortion or clipping.
Metadata: Proper metadata is essential for identifying your music on streaming platforms. This includes the track title, artist name, album name, and other relevant details such as genre, release date, and track numbers.
Album Artwork: Streaming platforms require album artwork to accompany your release. Be sure to have a high-resolution image (at least 3000×3000 pixels) ready to go.

Having all these elements prepared will ensure a smooth submission process and avoid unnecessary delays.

Step 3: Create Accounts on Each Platform

Each streaming service will require you to set up an artist account. This usually involves:

Verification: Platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music will ask for some form of identity verification to confirm you are the rightful artist behind the music.
Artist Profile Setup: You will need to set up your artist profile by adding a bio, profile picture, and links to your social media accounts.

Setting up a professional artist profile on each platform is crucial for your success, as it helps build your brand and connect with fans.

Step 4: Submit Your Album

Once your accounts are set up and your files are ready, it’s time to submit your album on all streaming platforms without a distributor. Here’s how to do it:

Spotify: Log in to Spotify for Artists, go to the “Manage” section, and select “Upload.” Follow the prompts to upload your album and its corresponding metadata.
Apple Music: Sign in to Apple Music for Artists, click on “Upload Music,” and fill out the necessary information before submitting your album.
SoundCloud: Go to the “Upload” section in your SoundCloud account, select your album, and add the relevant details.
YouTube Music: Through YouTube Studio, you can upload your album tracks directly by following the steps to manage your content.

Be sure to review the submission guidelines carefully to avoid any mistakes during the upload.

Step 5: Monitor Your Release

Once your album is submitted, it’s important to keep an eye on its performance. Each platform has tools that allow you to track streams, audience demographics, and earnings. Platforms like Spotify and Apple Music offer artist dashboards that provide valuable insights into how your music is performing.

Step 6: Promote Your Album

Promoting your music is key to its success. Here are a few ways you can amplify your album release:

Social Media: Share your album on all your social media channels. Use hashtags and interact with your followers to create buzz.
Submit to Playlists: Many streaming platforms offer playlist submission forms. Submitting your album to relevant playlists can help you gain more exposure.
Engage with Fans: Respond to comments and engage with your fans through live streams, Q&A sessions, and other interactive methods.

Conclusion:

Submitting your album directly to streaming platforms without relying on a distributor like “Deliver My Tune” offers greater control, fewer fees, and the ability to maximize your earnings. While the process requires more work upfront, the benefits of managing your music independently can be highly rewarding. From setting up accounts to promoting your album, each step is crucial to ensuring your music reaches the right audience. With a little research, preparation, and promotion, you’ll be well on your way to success in the digital music space.

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For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit DMT RECORDS PRIVATE LIMITED.