How Long Does It Take DistroKid to Upload to Spotify?

If you're an artist using DistroKid—one of the most popular music distribution platforms, with over 2.5 million musicians globally—you’re likely eagerly awaiting your music's release on Spotify. 

The waiting game may be nerve-racking, especially when your followers are waiting for a release. This guide will explain how long it takes, what processes are needed, and what you can do to ensure your release goes well. Keep reading to learn all about Distrokid!

What is Distrokid?

DistroKid is a digital music distribution service that enables musicians to upload their songs to various websites and streaming platforms, such as YouTube Music, Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more. Established in 2012 by Philip J. Kaplan, DistroKid began as Fandalism, a music-related social media network, before switching to its current distribution mechanism in 2013.

How Long Does It Take for DistroKid to Upload to Spotify?

DistroKid typically takes two to five business days to process Spotify uploads. However, this can vary based on factors such as the timing of your submission and Spotify’s internal review process. DistroKid suggests uploading it at least seven days before your scheduled release date, so it's always better to submit it well in advance if your release is time-sensitive.

Factors That Affect Upload Times

The upload times for songs uploaded to Spotify using DistroKid can be affected by several factors. 

1. Spotify’s Review Process

Spotify carefully examines every release to ensure compliance with its rules, looking for problems like mismatched metadata or poor audio quality. This review ensures the platform maintains quality, but errors can result in delays.

2. Peak Seasons

Significantly more submissions are made during peak times, like holidays or important music events. This rise may slow processing times as Spotify handles a heavier workload.

3. Metadata Errors

Delays may also result from information errors, such as misspelled song titles, artist names, or genres. If Spotify finds such errors, it may require adjustments before the music goes online, which would lengthen the upload time overall.

4. Custom Release Dates

Regardless of whether the music has been processed in advance, it will be published when it comes if an artist specifies a release date. This implies that even if everything is prepared, the release will be postponed until the selected date.

How can you speed up your release? 

Sometimes, it takes longer than expected for your music to be released on Distrokid. Set your release date at least one month in advance. You should prepare for the chance that releases may be manually reviewed, as this is not unusual. Here are some additional explanations for why the upload can be delayed. 

1. Problems With Artwork

Even if you want your cover to be fuzzy, your artwork must be visible and unblurred.

If you desire hazy or fuzzy artwork, be ready for Distrokid to send your song for manual review; this could cause a two-week delay in the upload.

2. Re-releasing Using A Different Name

It's acceptable to re-release music under a different name, but streaming services might reject your songs if they think you're stealing their melody. If you want to re-release the song, please remove all references to the previous version. This will help you avoid any possible problems. Since the metadata needs to match the preceding track stored on the file, some people have complained that this does not work. 

3. Licensing Issues 

Distrokid can only distribute your submitted cover song once they have secured the license. Each cover song costs an extra $12 each year. Compared to an initial release, you may have to wait up to 14 business days longer. You must consider this when creating a release timetable because it is regrettably unavoidable. 

4. You Have Uploaded Too Many Songs

It can take longer to process your upload if you recently released many songs.

This shouldn't stop you from being innovative, but you should ensure that your release dates are carefully considered and scheduled.

Tips to Speed Up the Process

• Upload Early: Try to submit your songs at least seven to ten days before the date you would like them to be released.
• Double-Check Metadata: Verify that all information, including the artist's name, album art, and track titles, is correct and follows Spotify's guidelines. 
• Avoid Weekends: Avoid weekend uploads, as processing delay may occur due to limited operational hours.
• Monitor Your Submission: Check the status of your release using DistroKid's dashboard and take quick action to fix any issues that are pointed out.

What to Do If Your Upload Takes Longer?

If Spotify hasn't featured your music after five business days:

Speak with Support: If you need help resolving any issues, contact DistroKid's customer service.ptions, enjoy uninterrupted music without distractions 

View the Status Page of DistroKid: Verify whether Spotify or DistroKid is experiencing any delays.

Examine your submission: Ensure your metadata and files comply with Spotify's guidelines.

Wrapping Up!

Using DistroKid to upload your music to Spotify is easy, but being aware of the deadlines and potential challenges can be helpful. A successful release can be achieved by submitting your music in advance, checking that the information is accurate, and promptly resolving any issues. This guide equips you to navigate the process confidently, allowing you to focus on what really matters—sharing your music with the world.