Imagine releasing a song you’ve poured your heart into, only to see it get lost in the crowd. Sounds frustrating, right? The truth is, many artists unknowingly make mistakes that hinder their success and can even lead to financial losses.
But don’t worry! By recognizing and avoiding these common pitfalls, you can give your music the release it truly deserves.
Here are five critical mistakes to avoid and practical solutions to ensure your next release is a hit:
- Forgetting to Register with IPRS
Why It’s a Mistake:
The Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS) ensures you earn royalties from streams, live shows, and other performances. Skipping this step means you’re missing out on a steady revenue stream from your hard work.
Solution:
Register your song with IPRS as soon as it’s ready. This ensures you’re compensated whenever your music is played on platforms, live stages, or even in films.
- Skipping Copyright Registration
Why It’s a Mistake:
Your song, lyrics, and cover art are your intellectual property. Without copyright protection, others can copy or misuse your work, and you’ll have little legal recourse.
Solution:
Register your music, lyrics, and artwork with copyright authorities. It’s an easy process and offers peace of mind that your creations are safe.
- Not Sending a Press Release
Why It’s a Mistake:
Releasing music without a press release limits your visibility. Media outlets, bloggers, and influencers can’t promote what they don’t know about.
Solution:
Draft a compelling press release with details about your song, its inspiration, and why it matters. Share it with music journalists, bloggers, and online publications to amplify your reach.
- Neglecting Digital Asset Preparation
Why It’s a Mistake:
Your song may be brilliant, but without engaging promotional content, it can go unnoticed. Missing out on teaser videos, posters, and social media assets reduces your chances of grabbing attention.
Solution:
Plan your promotional assets—videos, reels, posters, and playlists—well in advance. Ensure your content is optimized for all platforms (Instagram, YouTube, Spotify, etc.) to maximize your reach and hype.
- Paying an Agency for Streams
Why It’s a Mistake:
Fake streams might make your numbers look good temporarily, but they harm your credibility. Plus, platforms are cracking down on fake plays, which could lead to penalties.
Solution:
Focus on organic growth by collaborating with other artists, running authentic campaigns, and engaging directly with your audience. Building a genuine fan base is the key to long-term success.
Ready to release your next hit?
Follow these steps, and give your music the launch it deserves!
Final Thoughts
Releasing music successfully requires careful planning, attention to detail, and avoiding these common mistakes. By registering your work, protecting your rights, creating buzz, and promoting authentically, you’ll set yourself up for success in the Indian music industry.
Have you faced challenges releasing your music? Share your story in the comments below!