How to Publish Your Music: A No-BS Guide

Before we begin, I highly recommend you check out https://metamusic.ca/procedure …great resource for seeing how everything in linked. Ok, let’s go.

Step 1: Sharpen Your Swords (Or Your Instruments)

First things first, ensure your music isn’t just good; it needs to be something you’d wish existed and would probably love or find very interesting as a. stranger. Get feedback, refine your work, and maybe, just maybe, try to keep the triangle solo to a minimum.

Step 2: Claim Your Territory

Before you send your musical children out into the world, make sure you've got your paperwork in order. Copyrighting your music is like putting a giant "Mine, hands off!" sticker on it. It protects your work from being claimed by the guy who thinks adding a tambourine beat to your song makes it his. Register your work with the copyright office, and while you're at it, affiliate with a PRO (Performing Rights Organization) like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. These folks are like your music’s godparents, ready to collect royalties on your behalf.

Step 3: Dress to Impress (Your Music, That Is)

Alright, your music is sharp, and it's legally yours. Now, it’s time to dress it up for the ball. Album art, social media presence, a sleek website – think of these as your music’s Sunday best. You wouldn’t go to a job interview in pajamas, right? (If you would, we need to chat.) Your digital presence is often the first impression, so make it count.

Step 4: Distribute Like a Pro

Now, to the main event: getting your music out there. Digital distribution platforms are your best friends here. Companies like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby act as the middlemen between you and streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Tidal. Choose one that suits your needs and budget, understanding their fee structures and what they offer. It's like choosing a Pokémon; each has its strengths, so pick wisely!

Step 5: Market Like You Mean It

Publishing your music isn't just about making it available; it's about making it heard. Dive into the deep end of social media marketing, content creation, and maybe even some good old-fashioned gigging. Connect with your audience, collaborate with other artists, and maybe even consider a music video. The goal is visibility, engagement, and getting your tunes into as many ears as possible.

Step 6: Stay Legally Savvy

Just because you’ve published your music doesn’t mean you can rest on your laurels. Keep an eye on your rights and royalties. Understand where your music is playing and who owes you a cup of coffee (or a couple of hundred cups) in royalties. Occasionally, the music industry can feel like the Wild West, so stay sharp, partner.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, future Grammy winners, the road map to publishing your music. It might seem like climbing Everest at first, but remember, even the Beatles started as a local band in Liverpool. The music industry is constantly evolving, and so should you. Stay curious, stay passionate, and most importantly, stay true to your art. Now go out there and turn the volume up on your dreams. Your audience is waiting.

Remember, folks, the journey from creating to publishing your music is filled with twists, turns, and the occasional flat note, but with determination, resilience, and a bit of cheeky charm, you'll find your way. Here's to making waves in the ocean of sound! 🎶