Artist career

When to release your first single

Six to eight weeks from today. A release has to reach the platforms at least four weeks before the date, otherwise you miss the editorial pitch window on Spotify and Apple Music — the only free submission that exists. The rest of the time goes to artwork, copy, and materials, which always take longer than expected.

Counting backwards

• −8 weeks: date committed, master finished.
• −4 weeks: delivered to the distributor, metadata checked.
• −3 weeks: editorial playlist pitch submitted.
• −2 weeks: materials and pre-save ready.
• 0: release day.

Which day to pick

• Friday is the standard release day and playlist refreshes are built around it. Avoid weeks with major releases in your genre, and holidays.

Why rushing costs you

• A release delivered three days out goes live with no pitch, no pre-save, and no materials. That is not faster, just quieter.

In short

• Can I move the date? Before delivery, easily. After delivery it depends on the platforms, and moving it often cancels the editorial pitch.
• Single or a full EP? A single. It is cheaper, faster, and gives you one date instead of six decisions at once.

Next

• How to start a music career
• What to do after a release
• Common mistakes independent artists make
• The independent artist's career