How To Release Music Independently in India (DIY)

The music scene in India is undergoing a transformation. Today, as an upcoming artist, budding musician, a passionate band, or an ambitious small label, you hold more power than ever before.  Your music can travel far and wide; your tracks can go live on all major streaming platforms.

You can be the next big music sensation the world is waiting for!

This is How You Do It

Phase 1: Honing Your Craft– It All Starts with the Music

Songwriting & Composition

Authenticity is your superpower. Whether it’s indie pop, Sufi fusion, classical blends, or regional rap—infuse your culture, story, and sound. Don’t shy away from experimenting.

Arrangement & Production

Think beyond melody. How do instruments, vocals, and textures work together? Use India’s rich soundscape—combine traditional and modern sounds to create something unique.

Recording

Studio: Pro gear, expert engineers, and acoustic spaces—ideal if budget allows.

Home Setup: With a good mic, interface, and DAW, you can achieve great results. Learn basic recording techniques for clean takes.

Mixing & Mastering

These steps make your track Release-Ready.

Mixing: Levels, effects, and balance. Every element should shine.

Mastering: Final polish. Ensures your song sounds great on all platforms (Spotify, JioSaavn, Gaana) and devices. Don’t skip this—invest if you can.

Phase 2: Getting Your Release Ready

Audio Files

Submit high-quality WAV files (16-bit/44.1 kHz or 24-bit/48 kHz). Avoid MP3s to preserve audio fidelity.

Artwork

Your cover is your first impression.

Specs: JPEG/PNG, 3000×3000 px, RGB.

Design Tip: Match your music’s vibe and genre. Avoid blurry images or unlicensed logos.

Metadata

Accurate metadata ensures correct listing and royalties include:

  • Song Title, Artist Name(s), Featured Artists
  • Composer, Lyricist, Producer
  • Genre/Sub-genre (e.g., Hindi Hip-Hop, Indian Pop)
  • Language of Lyrics, Explicit Content flag
  • Release Date

Platforms like Spotify India and JioSaavn rely heavily on proper metadata for discoverability.

ISRC & UPC Codes

ISRC: Unique ID for each track

UPC: Barcode for your single/album
Most distributors including A3 Tunes provide these automatically.

Phase 3: Choosing Your Music Distribution Partner

Your distributor gets your music on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, JioSaavn, Gaana, Wynk, and more.

Choose based on:

  • Reach: Must cover global + Indian platforms
  • Royalties: Favor high or 100% payout options with clear reporting
  • Tools: Pre-save links, analytics, playlist pitching
  • Support: Responsive to Indian artists’ needs
  • Rights: You should retain full ownership
  • Pricing: Compare annual, per-release, and one-time fees

A reliable distributor empowers you without taking your rights or earnings.

Phase 4: The Release & Initial Push

Set a Realistic Release Date

Give 3–4 weeks buffer for platform processing and promo planning.

Pre-Save Campaigns

Use tools to let fans pre-save your track on Spotify, Apple Music, etc.

Playlist Pitching

Use artist portals (Spotify for Artists, etc.) and research relevant curators.
For Indian platforms, look for editorial pitching options.

Promote Your Release

Announce across social media, mailing lists, and groups. Share content—snippets, backstory, behind-the-scenes clips.

Start Your Musical Journey Now

You’re in control—from recording to reaching millions. The road is yours to shape.
Choose a distribution partner that has your best interests in mind.

Choose a distribution partner that understands the music business in and out.

Choose A3 Tunes

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