How to Release Your First Project on DSPs, Vinyl & CDs
To release your first song, finish and master your record, then use a distributor (DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby) to deliver it to Spotify, Apple Music, and all DSPs. Add your metadata and ISRC/UPC codes, schedule the release 3-4 weeks ahead to pitch playlists, and optionally press vinyl or CDs through an on-demand service.
The 5-Step First Release Roadmap
Getting your first song out is far simpler than it looks once you break it into steps. Here's the exact order to work in — from a finished record to live on streaming and pressed on physical formats.
Finish and master your record
Record your vocals over your licensed beat, mix using the trackout stems, and get a final master. A clean, loud-but-dynamic master is what makes your song competitive on streaming.
Choose a distributor
Pick a digital distributor like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby to deliver your song to Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, YouTube Music, and every other DSP from one upload.
Prepare metadata and codes
Add your artist name, song title, genre, and credits. Your distributor assigns an ISRC code (identifies the recording) and a UPC code (identifies the release) automatically.
Upload artwork and set a release date
Upload 3000x3000px cover art, attach your beat license, and schedule the release at least 3-4 weeks out so you can pitch for playlists via Spotify for Artists.
Press physical copies (optional)
For vinyl, CDs, or cassettes, use a pressing service like Qrates, Kunaki, or a local plant. Provide your master, artwork, and the same UPC so physical and digital match.
Releasing on Streaming Platforms (DSPs)
You can't upload directly to Spotify or Apple Music as an independent artist — you go through a distributor. They take your master and push it to every DSP from a single dashboard, then collect and pay out your royalties. The big three for beginners:
- DistroKid — flat annual fee, unlimited uploads, fastest delivery.
- TuneCore — strong publishing and royalty collection tools.
- CD Baby — one-time fee per release plus physical distribution options.
Pro Tip: Pitch for Playlists
Once your release is scheduled (at least 7 days out), use Spotify for Artists to pitch your unreleased song to Spotify's editorial team. This is free and is the single best organic boost available to a first-time artist. Keep your artist profile protected so your metadata stays clean.
Pressing Vinyl, CDs & Cassettes
Physical copies create real revenue and superfan value. You don't need a warehouse full of stock — modern on-demand and crowdfunded pressing makes it accessible:
Physical Format Options
| Format | Best For | How to Make It |
|---|---|---|
| CDs | Low-cost merch, signings | On-demand (Kunaki, CD Baby) |
| Vinyl | Collectors, superfans | Crowdfund (Qrates) or plant |
| Cassettes | Niche, retro appeal | Specialty duplicators |
Build the Campaign Around It
A release isn't just an upload — it's a rollout. Tease snippets on social, set up a pre-save link, prepare your cover art and visualizer, and line up promo before launch day. Every Khrome Beats purchase includes a release toolkit with promo, marketing, and branding guidance to help you do exactly this.
First Release Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
You can't upload directly as an independent artist — you go through a distributor like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby. You upload your master and artwork, fill in metadata, and the distributor delivers your song to every DSP. Schedule the release 3-4 weeks ahead to pitch for editorial playlists.
An ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) uniquely identifies your specific recording and tracks streams and royalties. A UPC identifies the overall release (single, EP, or album). Your distributor assigns both automatically for free, so you don't need to buy them separately for a first release.
Yes. A commercial lease from Khrome Beats covers streaming and sales within the tier's limits. Just upload your beat license alongside your master during distribution, and choose Unlimited or Exclusive if you want stems and no streaming caps. See our lease vs. exclusive guide for details.
CDs are cheap to produce on demand (often $1-3 per unit through print-on-demand services). Vinyl is more expensive and usually requires a minimum order, with per-unit costs dropping as quantity rises. Crowdfunding platforms like Qrates let you presell vinyl to cover the pressing cost before you commit.
Aim for at least 4 weeks. That gives you time to submit to Spotify's editorial playlist pitch tool (which requires 7+ days lead time), line up promo, prepare your social rollout, and order physical copies if you want them ready on launch day.
Get the Beat, Get the Toolkit
Every Khrome Beats purchase includes the release, mixing, promo, and branding resources to take your first song from idea to launch.