As an artist, knowing where to submit your songs can make all the difference in getting noticed and growing your fan base. The music industry is competitive, but the right platforms can amplify your music, connect you with listeners, and even open doors to industry professionals. Whether you’re a new artist or someone looking to expand your reach, this guide will help you understand the best places to submit your songs.
Why Submitting Your Songs Matters
Before jumping into where to submit songs for artists, let’s talk about why it matters. In today’s digital world, releasing music isn’t enough. To get streams, downloads, or radio play, you need to put your music where people can hear it. Submitting songs to the right platforms increases your visibility, connects you with curators, and can even attract record labels or collaborations.
So, where do you begin? Let’s dive in!
1. Music Blogs
Music blogs are still a fantastic way to get your songs in front of the right audience. Many bloggers are influential tastemakers who can help you gain fans.
Top Music Blogs to Submit Your Songs:
- Hype Machine: A massive aggregator of music blogs. If your song gets featured on blogs listed here, you could reach thousands of listeners.
- Indie Shuffle: Perfect for independent and emerging artists.
- Stereofox: A blog dedicated to fresh sounds across multiple genres.
How to Submit:
- Research blogs that match your music style.
- Read submission guidelines carefully.
- Send a professional email with links to your song.
Music blogs are effective because they bring a human touch to music discovery. A positive review from a respected blogger can do wonders for your exposure.
2. Spotify Playlists
Spotify playlists are among the most powerful tools to gain streams and listeners. Playlists expose your music to new ears and can boost your monthly listeners significantly.
How to Submit to Spotify Playlists:
- Spotify for Artists: Spotify allows artists to submit unreleased songs directly for playlist consideration.
- Curator Playlists: Many independent curators create playlists and accept song submissions. Platforms like SubmitHub and Playlist Push help you connect with curators.
- User-Generated Playlists: Search for playlists on Spotify created by users and reach out to them directly.
Tip: Focus on playlists in your genre. For example, if you make lo-fi music, look for curators specializing in lo-fi beats.
3. Online Music Communities
Online communities are hubs for artists to share music and connect with other musicians and listeners.
Best Online Music Communities:
- Reddit: Subreddits like r/Music, r/WeAreTheMusicMakers, and genre-specific communities are great for submissions.
- SoundCloud Groups: SoundCloud has communities where you can upload and share your music.
- Discord: Many Discord servers are tailored to music producers and artists.
Being active in these communities not only helps you submit your songs but also builds relationships with people who share your passion for music.
4. Radio Stations and Podcasts
Radio and podcasts still play a huge role in music promotion, especially for independent artists.
How to Submit to Radio:
- Local Radio Stations: Start by submitting your music to community or college radio stations.
- Online Radio: Platforms like SiriusXM, Radio.co, and TuneIn accept music submissions.
- Podcasts: Look for music-centric podcasts that feature up-and-coming artists.
Most stations or hosts provide submission guidelines on their websites. Make sure to follow them carefully.
5. Music Distribution Platforms
If you want to get your music on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Deezer, you need a music distributor.
Best Music Distributors:
- DistroKid: Fast and affordable. It distributes your music to all major streaming platforms.
- TuneCore: Offers more control over royalties and revenue.
- CD Baby: A great choice for artists looking to distribute music globally.
- Ditto Music: Provides tools for independent artists to release and promote music.
Using a music distributor ensures that your songs reach listeners worldwide.
6. YouTube Music Channels
YouTube is one of the largest platforms for music discovery, and many independent YouTube channels accept song submissions.
Popular Channels for Music Submissions:
- Majestic Casual: Perfect for indie and electronic sounds.
- The Sound You Need: Focuses on high-quality, unique music.
- MrSuicideSheep: A massive channel known for discovering new talent.
How to Submit: Reach out to these channels via their contact forms or submission emails. Include a brief introduction and a link to your song.
Social media isn’t just for selfies — it’s an excellent place to submit and promote your songs.
- Instagram: Use Reels, Stories, and collaborations with influencers to showcase your music.
- TikTok: Viral hits often start here. Upload short clips featuring your song.
- Facebook Groups: Join groups focused on music promotion and share your music links.
Social media allows you to connect directly with your audience, so keep your profiles updated and interact with your fans.
8. Music Licensing Platforms
Music licensing platforms help you submit your songs for sync opportunities in movies, commercials, and video games.
Best Music Licensing Platforms:
- Songtradr: Helps artists license music for film, TV, and ads.
- Musicbed: Curates music for filmmakers and creative projects.
- Epidemic Sound: A popular choice for content creators needing background music.
Licensing your music can be highly lucrative and provide long-term opportunities for exposure.
9. Competitions and Contests
Many organizations host competitions where artists can submit songs and gain recognition.
Popular Competitions to Submit Your Songs:
- Unsigned Only: A competition for unsigned artists.
- International Songwriting Competition (ISC): Recognizes talented songwriters globally.
- Your Local Music Competitions: Check for contests in your area or online platforms.
Submitting your music to competitions can open doors to valuable feedback, prizes, and new fans.
10. Directly to Record Labels
If your goal is to get signed, you can submit songs directly to record labels. Start small by targeting independent labels that align with your sound.
How to Submit:
- Research labels in your genre.
- Follow their submission guidelines carefully.
- Send a polished demo and include your press kit.
Final Thoughts on Where to Submit Songs for Artists
Knowing where to submit your songs as an artist is key to getting noticed. From blogs and playlists to radio stations and social media, there are countless opportunities to share your music. Start with one platform, refine your submission approach, and stay consistent.
Success won’t happen overnight, but every step you take brings you closer to reaching your audience and achieving your dreams. Keep creating, submitting, and connecting — the world is ready for your music.
For further reading, explore these related articles:
- How a SoundCloud Distributor Can Supercharge Your Music Career
- Spotify My Music: A Complete Guide to Stream, Organize, and Promote Your Music
For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit DMT Records Private Limited.
