Did you release a single that didn't do as well as you initially anticipated? Are you planning on releasing a new single or already on the road to a single release? If your answer is yes, this is for you so keep reading!
Putting out a new song is relatively straightforward, but there are a lot of things that go into the process of a successful release. That is why in this article, we will be discussing important things you, as an artist should know about releasing singles - starting with the pre-release phase.
Before we begin, you should know that the music industry, just like any career in the creative world, is a fast-paced one; therefore, newer artists need to release music more regularly in order to keep their audience engaged and interested. Now to the checklist:
1. Create a marketing plan.
People say this a lot but planning is of great important if you want to succeed. Pick a date for your release and create a three-month plan leading up to that date. Define the different stages of your marketing campaign and sketch out promotional strategies for every stage. Plan how you are going to introduce the release of your single, how you are going to build hype for the release, how to boost sales and keep the momentum going even after release. An elaborate marketing plan is important in the success of your single.
2. Document your process.
Start documenting from the beginning of your creative process. Take as many pictures and videos as you can. The best way to keep fans close and make them feel like they’re 'in this with you' is to give them behind-the-scenes content. You can create content around the inspiration behind the song, the people with whom you wrote it with, the recording process; stories behind the recording, funny studio moments and bloopers, and anything else that, might later on, help fans feel a connection to you and your music. Aim to keep fans invested in what you have to say.
3. Organize distribution.
Deciding how you want to distribute your single is very important. The first question you need to ask yourself is whether your single will be available for free, streaming, or purchase. Accordingly, you can make your single available on online platforms such as iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, Apple Music, and so on. Music distribution services like Distrokid, Tunecore, CD Baby, and HFP Verge usually cover most of these channels for you, but all of these channels have different processing times, so upload and register your track in advance.
4. Update your press pack
A press pack is an online page or a shareable folder that includes material people would need to publicize your release. It should include: an updated artist bio and images, song artwork and promo images, a press release, your contact information, and of course, a downloadable version of the song to be released. Press packs are important as they serve as your first impression to the digital world.
5. Pitch your song to playlists
After uploading your single, artists who want to promote their music should look into how they can get their songs playlisted on as many playlists as possible. Features on playlists with similar artists and genres is favourable as it gives you a high chance of attracting new fans and gaining more streams. Remember that songs should be pitched at least four weeks before the release of your single, hence the need to plan ahead
We hope this serves as a sort of checklist for your next single release.
In the coming articles, we will be discussing further how to plan a successful release.