A single release is the fastest way to make your mark as an artist. The more singles you release, the more experience and knowledge you will have in promoting and releasing your music. This will give you an advantage when you release larger projects such as an album or EP.
Newer artists must release music more often in today’s fast-paced music industry. This is to maintain their audience’s interest and keep them engaged.
The ‘Waterfall Strategy’ is commonly used.
It’s an important point to remember when planning your music release strategy.
What’s the Waterfall Strategy for music?
The music industry has changed dramatically, to put it simply. MASSIVELY. Digital streaming has made it easier for listeners to pay attention. Albums are now shorter, and EPs are the most popular format.
Use the waterfall strategy.
To remain relevant, grow an audience, and eventually create an EP or album, the waterfall strategy involves an artist releasing a single every 3-4 weeks.
In today’s streaming landscape, singles are more lucrative than albums. Independent artists have streaming platforms as a major revenue stream. The more content you upload to platforms like YouTube or Spotify, the better your chances of being eligible for their rewards programs and the more revenue you will earn.
You’ll be primarily focusing on singles and LPs. But you’ll also be building an EP or album by doing so. Regular music releases will keep you from falling into dangerous territory where your fans cannot see or hear what you’re doing.
This strategy has helped many artists, large and small, move quickly up the music ladder and build huge followings. Charlie XCX, an artist, has tapped into the instant nature of modern platforms to grow their audience and eventually release an EP.
Here are some other benefits to releasing your music using the “waterfall strategy”.
– More impressions: Your music will be heard by more people, which will generate new listeners and fans.
Chart growth in fans: you’ll be able to see your audience growing and which tracks are doing the best, based on streaming data and analytics
– Streaming platforms support this algorithm. They want you to create new music on the reg for their algorithmic playlists, such as Spotify’s “Release Radar” and “New Music Friday” lists.
But what’s the catch?
Because singles are easier than albums to release, the problem is that everyone’s doing this, with around 24,000 songs being released every day across the globe. Single. Day.
This is where the importance and promotion strategy of your release comes in. It helps you stand out from the crowd, grab the industry’s attention, and make YOURS stand out.
How to Promote a Single in 2022
Select the right distributor
Your chosen distribution method will significantly impact how potential fans and new listeners receive your single. It will also impact how much you make from streaming your track.
We’ll help you distribute your music to the top online streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, etc.
Additionally, you’ll receive 100% from all streaming royalties and access to promotional tools such as pre-save buttons and chart registration.
We manage music distribution to over 500k artists around the world. Get a free trial today!
Make a plan.
Although a single release doesn’t require as much planning as an album, you should still allow sufficient time to plan and prepare.
It is important to set a release date early in the process. This date can establish a timeline and deadlines for tasks to be completed before and after the release date.
It would help if you started planning and making decisions around 1 to 2 months ahead of time for the actual marketing and release strategies.
Draw a plan for promotion and define the stages. Make a timeline that you will stick to. Note how you will introduce your single. This will help create hype, increase earnings potential, and keep the momentum going. (Read on for more information! ).
Create a hook and build your promotion plan around it
Your promotion plan will determine the success of your single release. You can improve your relationships with your fans by investing in promotional tools and steps. This will allow you to increase the profits from your single release.
Singles that have their hook are what make them stand out. A creative, unique, or interesting feature.
Once you have defined your hook, rotate all of your promotional materials around it.
It is possible to look at other angles than the main hook. The song alone may not be enough for casual listeners. Encourage listeners to make a leap of faith by downloading your song and obtaining some additional benefits like a piece of merchandise, tickets to a show, or any other bonus that might encourage them to play the song or download it.
Designs assets and artworks, incl. clean versions etc
Streaming has transformed how we listen to new music and how we view new artists. Digital artwork and imagery accompanying new music are now major influencers of listeners’ opinions.
You can create album imagery, cover banners, and any other assets you need well in advance to be ready to promote your single once it is out.
It would help if you created a thumbnail for your single that is visually appealing and compelling. This can be used in social media, posters, music, or lyrics videos.
It’s worth taking the time to make a clean version of your track, especially if your goal is to get it on the radio. Radio DJs and hosts won’t be offended by expletives, so make sure you have a clean version of your track ready for them.
Make a Pre-Save campaign.
A pre-save campaign allows your fans to take action and preserve your track before it goes live. Your track or album can go viral by gaining pre-saves through platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal.
Pre-saved Spotify music, for example, ensures that your followers and fans will have it in their music collection from the beginning. This can help you build momentum and generate high stream counts.
Sign up to release music on Ditto, and you will also receive a Ditto SmartLink. This allows you to direct your followers directly from your socials to pre-save your track on Spotify or any other major platform you are releasing it to.