Checklist when releasing your first track

Releasing your first track is an exhilarating milestone in your music career. Whether you're an aspiring artist or an established musician venturing into new territory, proper preparation is key. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through a checklist that ensures your debut track makes a memorable impact. Let's dive in!

Music distribution

Choosing the right music distributor is pivotal. A reputable distributor ensures your track reaches the widest audience possible. Seek a distributor with a proven track record, responsive customer support, and favorable terms. If you're new to distribution, check out our blog post on how to start and why a music distributor is essential for your journey.

Considering a label name

In order to release your music on your own, you require a label. But don’t worry, launching your own label is easier than you may think. If you're creating electronic music, especially for platforms like Beatport, selecting a label name thoughtfully is crucial. This is because if a name is already in use, it can lead to complications. Take your time to choose a unique, memorable, and reflective name that aligns with your artistic vision. Remember, your label's name will be closely tied to your releases, so it's essential to choose wisely.

Label Logo - A Must-Have for Beatport and Traxsource

If you're making electronic music and you are gearing up to release your first track on platforms like Beatport and Traxsource, don't forget your label logo! Think of it as your music's unique identity. These platforms usually give labels more visibility than others and they  love a professional touch. So a standout label logo can really make you shine. Although you can update your logo later, having one from the start is essential for your first release.

Press images

Visual appeal matters in the digital age. Take advantage of the opportunity to add press images to your track. These images can captivate your audience and create anticipation. To boost algorithmic visibility, consider changing your profile picture for each release. Fresh visuals can pique the curiosity of potential fans.

Press text

Crafting a compelling press text is an art. This piece of content provides essential information about your track, including its inspiration, genre, and notable features. A well-crafted press text serves as your digital press kit, helping music journalists and bloggers write about your release. It’s an essential tool for music promotion as it gives people a first impression of what they can expect from your release. 

Claiming artist profiles

Claiming artist profiles on major music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon and more is essential for building your online presence. Verified artist profiles not only look more professional but also offer benefits like artist insights, pitching- and customization options. Elevate your online presence and connect with your audience more effectively.

Pitching your music to curators

Getting your music on playlists is crucial for reaching more listeners, but it's tough due to competition. There are several services out there that provide pitching options for artists such as Spotify for Artists, Amazon Music for Artists and more. Before pitching, update your profiles on platforms and target playlists that match your music genre. Say thanks when your track gets added to a playlist to build good relationships with curators. For more infos here.

Whitelist your SoundCloud channel

If you already have a SoundCloud channel, remember to whitelist it before uploading or scheduling premieres. This ensures your tracks are protected and accessible. If you don't whitelist your channel in advance, the upload gets blocked. It also allows you to monetize your uploads. When you distribute tracks through dig dis!, whitelist your channel here. Don't worry if you don't have a SoundCloud channel yet - one will be made for you with the first release that comes out.

Releasing your first track is a significant step towards building your music career. By following this checklist, you're setting yourself up for success. Remember, preparation and attention to detail can make all the difference. Embrace this exciting journey with confidence and let your music shine.