Playbook

Release Your First Single

A complete, ordered path from finished song to released, promoted single.

1. Step 1

   Finish the song

   Set a hard deadline and lock the arrangement. Done beats perfect.

   Recommended resources

   BandLab

   Free · $0

   Free DAW to finish the track if you do not have one.

2. Step 2

   Mix and master

   Mix on reference tracks, then master or use an assisted mastering service.

   Recommended resources

   Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio

   One-time · $0–$45

   Learn the mixing fundamentals behind the decisions.

   LANDR

   Subscription · $11.99–$27.99/mo

   Fast assisted mastering for a first single.

3. Step 3

   Create artwork

   Make 3000x3000 cover art that reads clearly at thumbnail size.

   Recommended resources

   Canva

   Freemium · $0–$15/mo

   Cover art templates sized correctly for streaming.

4. Step 4

   Prepare metadata

   Lock your artist name, title spelling, credits, ISRC and release date.

5. Step 5

   Register your music

   Register the composition with a PRO so performance royalties get collected.

   Recommended resources

   ASCAP

   Free · $0–$50 one-time

   Register the composition so performance royalties are collected.

6. Step 6

   Distribute your song

   Upload at least 3–4 weeks ahead so you can pitch for playlists.

   Recommended resources

   DistroKid

   Subscription · $22.99+/yr

   Unlimited releases for a low annual fee.

   CD Baby

   One-time · $9.99–$29 per release

   Pay-per-release alternative if you release rarely.

7. Step 7

   Prepare your content

   Batch 6–10 short videos and a few static posts before release week.

   Recommended resources

   CapCut

   Freemium · $0–$7.99/mo

   Batch short-form videos quickly.

8. Step 8

   Build your release campaign

   Set up a landing page, pre-save and an email announcement.

   Recommended resources

   MailerLite

   Freemium · $0–$25/mo

   Announce to the fans you already own.

9. Step 9

   Release and promote

   Post consistently for 2–3 weeks after release, not just on release day.

   Recommended resources

   SubmitHub

   Pay per use · $1–$4 per submission

   Pitch to blogs and playlist curators.