8 Ways to Get Your Music Discovered in 2023

One of the best things about the internet is that it has resulted in increased connection. It doesn’t just allow users to discover and follow new music but helps musicians connect with their audiences. This has led to a shift in the way artists promote their music. Rather than vying for the attention of major record labels to get exposure, independent artists can now market directly to their fans and make themselves heard.

While it’s great that there are so many options available, you might wonder how to promote your music. In particular, you might think about how to start. To help you out, we have prepared this guide on how you can promote your music in 2023.

1. Register for Artist Services

Many of the most popular music streaming services have artist-specific platforms and signing up is a must if you’re releasing music.

These streaming platforms offer a variety of exclusive features and benefits reserved for artists who use and release music on the platform. For instance, Spotify for Artists enables you to add a profile image, edit the artist bio, submit music to the platform’s playlists, view streaming-related analytics, and access Spotify’s ‘Artist’s Pick.’

However, there are plenty of platforms other than Spotify that cater to artists’ needs. For instance, Amazon Music for Artists, Apple Music for Artists, YouTube for Artists, and Deezer for Creators are all similar artist-focused platforms, so sign up if you haven’t already.

2. Prepare an Electronic Press Kit

An electronic press kit (EPK) is a comprehensive digital portfolio containing promotional materials that can be sent to music industry influencers. Its purpose is to provide agents, record labels, venue bookers, producers, and the media with all the information they need to know about you as an artist. Your EPK should contain your bio, videos, images, press releases, contact details, and information regarding upcoming gigs.

3. Create a Website

It is crucial to create a polished and professional website to establish your online presence. However, it is even more important to develop a sizable and dedicated email list. In addition to showcasing your bios, images, music, and tour dates, your website should feature a registration form for your mailing list.

Through email marketing, you can directly reach out to individuals who are most likely to engage with your music. It is a good idea to update your website frequently with fresh content to enhance your search engine optimization and elevate your ranking on Google.

4. Leverage Social Media Platforms

The importance of a well-executed social media marketing strategy cannot be overstated. To promote your music in 2023, it is vital to create and sustain a compelling, engaging, and consistent presence across various platforms, including Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Facebook, and even platforms that aren’t too mainstream, like Snapchat. Furthermore, maintaining uniform profile handles can simplify online searches for your brand.

There’s plenty of guidance available on managing your social media channels, and each platform is subject to constant changes. It’s important that you explore some of these informative resources to gain further insights into maximizing and optimizing your social media presence.

5. Get Playlisted

You should not miss out on streaming and playlisting when promoting your music in 2023. Playlists across Deezer, Apple Music, Spotify, and other streaming platforms have millions of listeners globally and are streamed billions of times.

Adding your music to a popular playlist can result in thousands of streams, providing excellent exposure and the opportunity to earn Spotify royalties. While curated playlists can boost your music’s visibility and credibility, getting featured on algorithmic playlists such as Discover Weekly can significantly impact your stream count and royalty earnings. Therefore, it is crucial to explore all potential avenues for playlist placement.

6. Connect with Playlist Curators

Public playlists maintained by users on streaming platforms can provide substantial exposure for your music. Having a single song featured on one of these playlists can entice new listeners to explore the rest of your online music collection.

To increase your chances of playlist placement, it is advisable to target playlists that align with your genre. For instance, a heavy metal musician is more likely to be featured on a playlist titled “Mosh Pit Favorites” rather than “Coffee Shop Easy Listening.”

7. Get Blog and Press Coverage

Being featured by music publications, whether mainstream magazines, webzines, and niche blogs, can generate excitement and provide credibility for your music career.

Working with a professional PR executive to manage your publicity campaign is generally the most effective approach to obtaining extensive coverage. However, this option may not be financially viable for emerging artists with limited resources. If you have a limited budget, you can simply work with DIY PR.

8. Create a Captivating Music Video

One of the best to promote your music in 2023 is by releasing an exciting music video. To make your video shareable, aim for a unique concept and consider incorporating a hook, such as basing it on a recent viral meme trend or shooting it in a single, intricate take. If you have limited resources, consider filming a live performance and editing the footage uniquely. Share snippets of your music videos on social media platforms and embed them on your website.

Last Few Words

By following the tips mentioned above, you’re giving yourself the best chance to discover new audiences and ensure the right people hear your music. If you’re serious about your musical career, make sure to promote your music in 2023 as much as you can. The more effort you put in, the higher the rewards and the more your career will thrive.