How to Set Up Spotify as an Artist: Full Guide for Producers & Musicians
If you’re wondering how to set up Spotify as an artist, this guide walks you through every step—from creating a Spotify account to claiming your artist profile and getting your music heard by thousands of listeners. Whether you’re a beatmaker, singer, or producer, Spotify for Artists gives you the tools to promote your music professionally and grow your fanbase.
Step 1: How to Set Up Spotify as an Artist with a Regular Account
Before you can access Spotify for Artists, you need a basic Spotify user account.
Go to spotify.com
Click Sign Up
Enter your email, password, display name, birthdate, and gender
Confirm your email to activate the account
You’ll use this personal account to log in and manage your Spotify artist profile.
Step 2: Use a Distributor to Upload Music to Spotify
To appear on Spotify as an artist, you must release music through a distributor—Spotify doesn’t accept direct uploads.
Top platforms include:
DistroKid – Unlimited uploads, fast delivery
TuneCore – Good royalty splits
CD Baby – Great for physical/digital
Amuse – Free plan for beginners
LANDR – Also offers mastering and AI tools
Distribute your music, and once it’s live or scheduled, you’re ready to complete your Spotify artist setup.
Step 3: How to Claim and Set Up Spotify for Artists Account
Now that your release is submitted, it’s time to officially set up Spotify as an artist by claiming your profile.
Go to Spotify for Artists
Log in using your personal Spotify account
Search for your artist name
Select and claim your profile
Verify identity via distributor or social links
Once approved, you can access real-time data, manage your public artist profile, and start pitching your music.
Step 4: Customize and Optimize Your Artist Profile
To look professional and stand out on Spotify, make sure you customize your artist profile fully.
Add a high-quality profile and banner image
Write an engaging artist bio with genre keywords
Link your Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube
Pin an Artist Pick (your latest release, playlist, or upcoming show)
Add team members if you have a manager or label rep
Optimizing your Spotify artist setup makes it easier for fans and curators to trust and follow you.
Step 5: Track Growth with Spotify for Artists Tools
One of the benefits of setting up Spotify as an artist is access to powerful analytics.
You can view:
Live stream counts and listener trends
Playlist performance and saves
Demographics like country, gender, age
Where your listeners are coming from (search, algorithmic, or playlist)
These insights are crucial for shaping your release strategy and targeting fans more effectively.
Step 6: How to Submit Songs to Spotify Playlists
Spotify gives every verified artist the chance to pitch tracks to editorial playlists like New Music Friday or Fresh Finds.
Log into your Spotify for Artists dashboard
Go to the “Upcoming” tab
Choose a track and fill out the pitch form
Submit it at least 7 days before the release date
If you want your tracks to perform well, playlist pitching should always be part of your strategy after you set up Spotify as an artist.
Step 7: Promote Your Artist Account Everywhere
After you’ve learned how to set up Spotify as an artist, the next step is getting fans to listen and follow your profile.
Share Spotify links in your bio and stories
Use Spotify Codes for flyers and merch
Create Promo Cards for your tracks and playlists
Embed your Spotify player on your website
Run social ads with direct links to your music
Treat your Spotify profile like your official music homepage and push traffic toward it regularly.
Step 8: Keep Releasing Music Consistently
The Spotify algorithm rewards artists who stay active and release music frequently. Here’s how to maintain growth after setting up your artist account:
Release music every 4–6 weeks
Try acoustic versions, remixes, or collaborations
Update your Artist Pick with each drop
Use tools like Hypeddit or Feature.fm for pre-saves
Stay active on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts to create momentum around releases
Consistency is key to growing after you set up Spotify as an artist.
Step 9: Collaborate with Other Verified Artists
Collaboration helps you reach new audiences, gain more streams, and build industry relationships.
Tag each other on Spotify
Use split royalty features via DistroKid or TuneCore
Share each other’s playlists
Create cross-promotional content for social media
Spotify recognizes collabs as separate releases for both artists, so it’s a great way to expand your reach.
Step 10: Use All Available Spotify Tools for Artists
Here are some advanced tools available once you’ve set up Spotify as an artist:
Spotify Canvas – 8-second looping video
Spotify Clips – short artist story videos
Discovery Mode – Spotify promotes your music in algorithmic playlists
Marquee (invite only) – full-screen release campaigns
Live show integrations – display your tour dates via Songkick
Exploring these tools can give you a competitive edge on the platform.
Conclusion: Why You Should Set Up Spotify as an Artist Today
Understanding how to set up Spotify as an artist is essential if you want to build a serious music career in 2025 and beyond. Once your music is distributed and your artist profile is claimed, you unlock access to powerful tools, insights, and playlisting opportunities that help you grow faster.
Whether you’re a new producer or an experienced musician, now is the time to set up Spotify as an artist, get verified, and start building your audience globally.
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