5 Mistakes New Artists Make While Releasing Their First Track

Releasing your first track is an exciting milestone — but many artists unknowingly make small mistakes that reduce streams, playlist chances, and algorithm reach. Here are the top 5 mistakes new artists make and how you can avoid them.

1. Incorrect or Incomplete Metadata

Your metadata tells Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube who you are.

Common mistakes:

• Wrong artist name spelling

• Missing lyrics

• Wrong genre

• Missing credits

• Inconsistent naming across platforms

How to fix it: Double-check your details before submitting.

2. Low-Quality or Wrong-Sized Cover Art

Your cover art is your identity.

Mistakes include:

• Pixelated artwork

• Using copyrighted images

• Wrong 3000×3000 size

• Hard-to-read title or artist name

Fix: Use high-quality 1:1 artwork. PlayGeet’s Artwork Studio helps you generate clean AI cover art.

3. Uploading Too Late (Not Scheduling the Release)

Uploading close to the release date severely damages your marketing potential.

Problems:

• No time for Spotify playlist pitching

• Not enough time to build hype

• Risk of DSP processing delays

• No buffer for artwork or metadata corrections

Fix: Always upload your track 3–4 weeks before the release date. This gives enough time for pitching, promotion, content planning, and proper DSP processing.

4. Weak Social Media Promotion

Uploading your track is only 10% of the work — the remaining 90% is marketing. Most new artists forget that social media hype directly affects first-day streams and algorithm push.

Common mistakes:

• No teaser or early hype

• No Instagram Reels or Shorts

• Skipping pre-save links

• No behind-the-scenes content

• Not posting consistently

• Not interacting with listeners

Plan a simple but effective promo timeline:

3–4 Weeks Before Release

• Announce your upcoming track

• Share behind-the-scenes clips

• Post a studio snippet

2 Weeks Before Release

• Drop the official teaser

• Start posting interactive stories (polls, Q&A)

• Share artwork reveal

1 Week Before Release

• Push pre-save links heavily

• Release a 10–15 sec hook reel

• Share countdown stories daily

Release Day

• Post your main Reel + Story blast

• Share Spotify link

• Tell fans to add the track to playlists

After Release (1–2 Weeks)

• Drop lyric video clips

• Post fan reactions

• Share performance videos

• Keep pushing reels to sustain algorithm reach

5. Choosing the Wrong Distributor

Your distributor has a major impact on your reach, earnings, and long-term artistic control. Many new artists run into problems because they pick platforms that lack transparency or provide limited support.

Common Problems:

• Slow or inconsistent delivery to DSPs

• Confusing royalty breakdowns

• Metadata errors that hurt discovery

• Hidden charges or unexpected add-on fees

• Weak customer support

Choose a distributor that prioritizes clarity, artist rights, and reliable service.

With PlayGeet, artists get:

• Fast distribution to all major streaming platforms

• AI-powered submission for accurate metadata

• Transparent royalty reporting

• Zero hidden charges — everything is upfront

• You always keep full rights to your music

• A clean, modern dashboard to manage releases easily

• Responsive support when you need assistance

Selecting the right distributor ensures your music reaches listeners smoothly while protecting your rights and income.