Releasing your first single as an independent Aussie artist is an exciting journey-and totally doable! The Australian music scene is full of indie legends who’ve carved their own path, and you can absolutely join them. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide tailored for musicians Down Under to get your single out there and heard.
1. Get Your Track Release-Ready
- Quality is Key: Make sure your song is professionally mixed and mastered. If you’re on a budget, plenty of local studios and freelance engineers are keen to work with emerging artists.
- Artwork: You’ll need a striking cover image (usually 3000×3000 pixels, JPG/PNG). Not a designer? No worries-check out Aussie freelancers or students from TAFE or uni who want to build their portfolios.
2. Choose Your Digital Distributor
- To get your music on Spotify, Apple Music, and other streaming platforms, you’ll need a digital distributor. Aussie-friendly options include Ditto, Gyrostream (based in Australia), DistroKid, and CD Baby.
- Compare fees and features-some charge per release, others have annual plans. Most let you keep your rights and the majority of your royalties.
3. Register Your Song and Sort Your Royalties
- APRA AMCOS: Register as a songwriter with APRA AMCOS to ensure you get paid for every stream, radio play, and public performance in Australia and overseas.
- Copyright: In Australia, you automatically own the copyright to your music, but keeping clear records of your creation dates and collaborators is smart.
4. Plan Your Release Timeline
- Give yourself at least four weeks before your release date to get artwork, distribution, and promo sorted.
- Pick a release day that works for you. While Fridays are traditional, indie artists sometimes drop music mid-week to avoid the Friday rush and get noticed.
5. Spread the Word
- Social Media: Start teasing your single on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and even Threads. Share snippets, behind-the-scenes footage, and the story behind your song.
- Pre-Saves: Set up a Spotify pre-save campaign (most distributors offer this) to boost your first-day streams.
- Local Media & Radio: Reach out to Aussie music blogs, community radio stations like Triple R, FBi Radio, and 4ZZZ, and podcasts. They love supporting homegrown talent.
6. Get Playlist and Radio Ready
- Spotify for Artists: Submit your single to Spotify’s editorial team for playlist consideration at least a couple of weeks before release.
- Community Radio: Australia’s community radio network is huge for indie artists. Submit your track to AMRAP (Australian Music Radio Airplay Project) to get it in front of hundreds of stations.
7. Celebrate and Keep Promoting
- On release day, share your streaming links everywhere! Thank your supporters, and keep the momentum going with live shows, Q&As, or even a launch party at your local venue or record store (Record Store Day is a big deal in Australia).
- Keep sharing content after release-live acoustic versions, lyric videos, or fan shoutouts all help keep your song in people’s feeds.
Real Aussie Examples
Artists like Lime Cordiale, Kasey Chambers, and Royel Otis have all found chart success as independent acts in Australia. Many WA and national artists are releasing music independently and making waves in 2025.
Quick Tips for Aussie Indies
- Register with APRA AMCOS early-it’s free for songwriters and crucial for getting paid.
- Use local distributors like Gyrostream if you want extra Aussie support.
- Don’t underestimate the power of community radio and local music blogs.
- Take part in events like Record Store Day for extra exposure.
Ready to Make Your Music Dreams a Reality?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or want a tailored plan to release and market your single the right way, we’re here to help! Head over to disruptmusicgroup.com or email us directly for a free strategy call. Let’s map out your release and marketing plan together, so your music gets the attention it deserves.
Don’t wait-start your independent music journey today with expert guidance from Disrupt Music Group!
