Uploading your music to digital platforms seems simple, but many independent artists make mistakes that affect their visibility, monetisation or even their rights. Here we explain the five most common mistakes so you can avoid them from the start.
1. Failure to fill in metadata correctly
Your metadata is the information that accompanies your song: title, authors, performers, release date, genre, etc. If it is poorly written or incomplete, it can lead to legal problems, prevent you from collecting royalties or make it difficult for search engines to find you.
Council: Check the credits several times before submitting. If there are collaborations, make sure they are properly credited.
2. Using unauthorised or poor quality cover sheets
The cover is the first impression you make. If you use unlicensed copyrighted images, you may be blocked from release. In addition, a pixelated, unprofessional or generic cover will detract from the impact of your music.
Council: Create or order an original cover in high quality. Avoid templates without personality or images downloaded without permission.
3. Uploading audio files in the wrong formats
Distributors often require 16-bit / 44.1 kHz .WAV files. Uploading an MP3 or a file with distorted volume may cause your music to sound bad on platforms or cause the system to reject your content.
CouncilExport from your DAW in the appropriate format and check for clipping.
4. Not scheduling the launch in good time
If you upload your song at the last minute, you will lose the opportunity to do editorial pitching, activate the pre-save or generate buzz in networks. In addition, you may encounter technical errors with no room to fix them.
Council: Upload your song at least 2 to 3 weeks before the official release.
5. Not linking your artist profile well
Many artists end up with their music on the wrong profiles, with misspelled names or without verifying their Spotify for Artists or Apple Music for Artists accounts.
CouncilRequest access to your official profiles, make sure you are linked correctly and keep your biography and photos up to date.
Conclusion
Digital distribution isn't just a formality: it's a fundamental part of your career. Avoiding these mistakes will allow you to launch your music professionally, increase your chances of visibility and ensure that every play counts. Getting your music right is the first step to getting it out there.
