How to Release an EP

If you want to know how to release an EP, the process sits neatly between a single and a full album: a short body of work (usually three to six tracks) delivered through a music distributor as one release. It gives you more to promote than a single without the six-month commitment of an album. Plan for four to six weeks from finished masters to release day.

What counts as an EP

An EP (extended play) typically runs three to six tracks, or roughly 10 to 30 minutes — longer than a single, shorter than an album. There is no rigid rule, but most distributors and stores treat anything under a certain track count or runtime as an EP rather than an album. For an emerging artist, an EP is a smart format: enough material to show range, not so much that it disappears.

Step 1: Finish and master the tracks together

Master the EP as a set so the songs sit at consistent loudness and tone — listeners often play an EP front to back. Make sure each track is fully mixed before mastering. See how loud your master should be for streaming, and the mixing fundamentals guide if you are finishing it yourself.

Step 2: Choose a distributor

Your EP goes to Spotify, Apple Music and the rest through a distributor such as DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby, Amuse or Ditto. A subscription distributor covers the whole EP under one annual fee; a pay-once service charges per release. Compare them in our best music distribution services guide, and read what a distributor does if you are new to this.

Step 3: Sort identifiers, metadata and artwork

Each track gets its own ISRC; the EP as a whole gets one UPC, both assigned by your distributor. Enter metadata carefully across every track — consistent artist name, correct titles and credits. Cover art must be square, at least 3000 x 3000 pixels, with no logos, URLs or prices.

Step 4: Set a date and lead single

Choose a release date at least four weeks out so you can pitch through Spotify for Artists and set up a pre-save. Consider releasing one track as a lead single a couple of weeks before the EP — it builds streams and pre-saves that carry into the full launch. A pre-save campaign is one of the easiest wins.

Step 5: Plan promotion

An EP gives you several weeks of content: track-by-track posts, visualisers, the story behind each song, and a lead-single moment. Build a simple runway with how to plan a music release, work through the complete music release checklist, and use these promotion strategies to keep momentum after launch.

Step 6: Release day and beyond

On the day, confirm all tracks are live, share your smart link, add the EP to your profile, and post across every channel. Keep promoting for several weeks — an EP has a longer life than a single, so spreading content out keeps it in front of new listeners.

Frequently asked questions

How many songs should an EP have?

Most EPs have three to six tracks, running roughly 10 to 30 minutes. There is no strict rule, but staying in that range keeps it clearly an EP rather than crossing into single or album territory under store and distributor classifications.

Is it better to release an EP or singles?

Both work. Singles give you more frequent release moments and algorithm signals, while an EP shows range and gives fans a body of work. A common strategy is to release a lead single first, then drop the full EP a couple of weeks later.

How long before release should I upload my EP?

Aim for at least four weeks. That covers Spotify’s editorial pitch deadline, pre-save setup and store processing, and gives you time to release a lead single and build promotion before the full EP goes live.