The 21 Questions Every Music Artist Should Ask Before Releasing a Single

Only if putting out music was as simple as recording it! It’s not. Releasing music is as complex as trying to explain to your grandma what an NFT was. We know your pain and headaches so we compiled a thorough list of 21 questions you should ask yourself as a music artist before you hit that Submit button on DistroKid.

21. Is the Song Ready?

This might seem obvious, but it’s important to ensure your song is fully polished before you release it. Have you perfected the lyrics, melody, and production? Is the mix balanced and the mastering professional? You won’t get do-overs once the piece is out. And the worst you could do for your career is retract the track and release it again. Rarely, if ever, is that an acceptable move as you will hurt all playlists and curators that initially engaged with the old version.

20. Does the Single Represent My Artistic Vision?

Your single is often the first impression listeners have of you. Does it accurately represent your style, your message, and your artistic vision? We strongly discourage you from releasing music that is experimental in the first five years of your career. Stick to mainly one sound until your fan base is large enough to pivot without hurting your stability and reputation.

19. Who is My Target Audience?

Understanding your target audience is key to a successful release. Who are you aiming to reach with this single? What music do they listen to, and where do they discover new music? Make sure your efforts and coins are headed toward the proper ROI (return on investment).

18. What’s My Release Date?

Choosing the right release date can maximize your single’s impact. Is there a specific date that aligns with the song’s theme? Are there other significant releases on that day that could overshadow your single?

17. Have I Registered My Song with a PRO?

Registering your song with a Performing Rights Organization (PRO) is an essential step to ensure you receive payment whenever your music is played publicly. PROs collect performance royalties on behalf of songwriters, composers, and publishers when their music is used in various venues such as radio stations, TV networks, live concerts, and streaming services. In the United States, the main PROs include ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers), BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.), SESAC (Society of European Stage Authors and Composers), and Global Music Rights (GMR). Each of these organizations offers unique services and benefits, providing comprehensive support to music creators by managing licensing agreements and distributing royalties

16. Is My Single Ready for Distribution?

Before you distribute your single, make sure it’s properly formatted. Do you have a high-quality audio file and cover art? Have you written a compelling song description? How about your metadata?

15. What’s My Promotion Strategy?

If you don’t have a plan for pushing that song to all of your existing fans AND new ones, you might as well cancel the submission process and sit on that track until you understand the pivotal role of music marketing. Take a class or two in the field and you will see your art with new eyes and hear with new ears.

14. How Will I Engage My Fans?

Engaging your fans can generate buzz around your release. How will you involve your fans in the release process? Could you share behind-the-scenes content, host a livestream, or run a contest? Never make the mistake of thinking your job is done when the song is out. It barely starts.

13. Do I Have a Press Release Ready?

While press releases are nowhere near as important as they were years ago, a press release can still help you get media coverage for your single. Have you written an engaging press release that clearly communicates your story? If you use ChatGPT, make sure you curate the damn release to make it sound HUMAN!

12. Have I Reached Out to Music Bloggers?

While not mainstream, just like press releases, they can significantly help with word of mouth. They are like the intellectual influencers of our times. No, seriously! Do you know how few people can word their thoughts into comprehensive, shareable information? Take a blogger out for a coffee and see if you can get a favor or two.

11. Have I Planned My Social Media Content?

What content will you share, and when will you post it? Take in consideration where is most of your audience located, then where’s the secondary audience from, the difference in time zones and act accordingly. Don’t skip any important segments of your fans.

10. Am I Utilizing Email Marketing?

Your email list is a direct line to your most dedicated fans. How will you use email marketing to promote your single? And more importantly, have you even started building one? If not, read up on the necessary steps to create the bloodline of your digital presence.

9. Have I Created a Lyric Video or Music Video?

A video will enhance your single and attract more listeners. Do you have a compelling video that aligns with your song’s theme and aesthetic? Better yet, use exclusive footage and photos to motivate your fans to pay attention to the track.

8. How Will I Measure Success?

Setting clear goals will help you measure your single’s success. What key metrics will you track, and what does success look like to you? Is it getting 100K views or 1M? Is it having 50K streams or 50K followers? Be specific about it.

7. Do I Have a Follow-Up Plan?

Your single release isn’t the end of the road. How will you continue to promote your single after the initial release? Do you have follow-up content planned? Consistency is the mother of success for artists.

6. Is My Website Up to Date?

Your website is your online home base. Is it up to date with your latest news, music, and tour dates? Use Bandzoogle for the easiest web setup in case you don’t already have a ‘home.’

5. Have I Planned Any Live Performances?

Live performances will promote your single and connect you to your fans stronger than just about any other method available in the world. Do you have any gigs or livestreams lined up? If not, use Yelp or FourSquare to scout locations that play live music like yours and pitch yourself.

4. Have I Considered Playlist Placement?

The right playlist will significantly increase your song’s streams. Have you researched relevant playlists and submission processes? DO NOT copy/paste your submission and be respectful of every single curator. They know when you’re treating them like another number.

3. Am I Ready for Interviews?

Interviews will boost your visibility and help you connect with your audience. Are you prepared to discuss your single, your creative process, and your musical journey? Never allow yourself to say ah, uhm, or you know, instead of a full, well-crafted answer. People will treat you how you treat your questions.

2. Have I Coordinated With My Team?

If you’re working with a team, it’s important to ensure everyone is on the same page. Have you communicated your release plan to your manager, publicist, or bandmates? If you’re shaking your head saying ‘but I don’t have a team!’ fret not! Your mom, dad, and sister matter too. Treat them like a team if you’re fortunate enough to have their support and tell them how to best help you.

1. Am I Prepared for Different Outcomes?

Music releases are unpredictable. Are you prepared for different outcomes, whether your single exceeds your expectations or doesn’t quite hit the mark? Don’t ever get stuck on one idea. Be ready to go viral and use the least favorite part of your song until the end of time. A small price to pay for online relevancy.

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Spotify

• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Spotify