Releasing music independently can feel overwhelming, but with a clear plan, you can turn your next single or EP into a professional-level launch. Here’s a step-by-step guide for indie artists to maximise reach, streams, and fan engagement.
1. Set the foundations
Before you promote anything, make sure your artist profile is ready.
Complete your bio, press photos, and EPK (Electronic Press Kit)
Update Spotify for Artists, Apple Music, and other streaming profiles
Ensure your website or “link in bio” tool is working
2. Build your timeline
A clear release timeline keeps you organised and consistent. Here’s a sample schedule:
4 weeks out: Tease your release with a short clip or artwork
3 weeks out: Launch your pre-save or pre-order link
2 weeks out: Submit your track to Spotify editorial playlists and curators
1 week out: Countdown posts and emails to fans
3. Create your content kit
Have everything ready to share across social channels.
Cover art (1080×1080 for Instagram)
Short-form video (under 60 seconds)
3–5 captions for reuse across posts
Instagram Story stickers or CTA graphics
4. Pitching plan
Reach out to blogs, playlists, and media with a concise pitch.
Identify 5 blogs or playlists relevant to your genre
Write a 2–3 sentence story about your track
Include streaming link, cover art, and bio
5. Schedule social posts
Consistency is key to building anticipation.
Post teasers, previews, and countdowns
Aim for at least 3 posts per week
Use scheduling tools like Buffer, Later, or Metricool
6. Email fans
Email marketing helps you connect directly with listeners.
Send 3 key emails: pre-save alert, behind-the-scenes content, and release day announcement
Include exclusive content or sneak peeks to incentivise engagement
7. Launch & repeat
Release day is just the beginning.
Share your track across all platforms
Boost top-performing posts with paid promotion
Thank fans, encourage shares, and respond to comments
Begin planning your next release
Pro tip: Treat every release as a learning opportunity. Track which posts and pitches get the most traction, then replicate what works next time.
By following this 7-step indie promo plan, you’ll be able to release music like a pro, grow your streaming numbers, and keep fans engaged from teaser to launch and beyond.
