If your music is up in various streaming stores, you can have it removed. However, the stores won’t be able to help. Spotify and others will direct you back to your distributors for assistance with this task.
Navigating the music industry as an independent artist means handling everything from production to distribution. Sometimes, this includes removing your music from platforms like Spotify. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you through the process.
Contact your distributor or label
If your music was distributed via a label or music distributor, you’ll need to reach out to them first. Inform their support team of your request to remove your content from Spotify and any other platforms. Be prepared to provide your UPC and/or ISRC codes. Ensure you’re using the email address linked to your account to avoid identity verification issues.
Why contact your distributor?
Distributors or labels handle the removal process with Spotify, ensuring everything is done correctly. While they usually act quickly, the exact time frame can vary. Always follow up with them to confirm the progress of your request. Remember, they have so many artists to deal with that often these things can take longer than you’d like.
What if you don’t get a response?
If your distributor or label doesn’t respond, it might be due to high workloads or delays. Give them some time, but if the silence persists, you can contact Spotify directly. Use Spotify’s infringement form to file a removal request, but be aware that they may check if you’ve already tried to go through your distributor first.
Tips for avoiding future issues
- Keep your information updated: Ensure that all your contact information is current with your distributor to avoid verification delays.
- Communicate clearly: When you change email addresses or other contact details, update your distributor and all related platforms simultaneously.
By following these steps, you can efficiently remove your music from Spotify and focus on your next creative project. This is a great tool to have for those who want to change up their sound or take their career in a different direction. You have the ability to completely control your music, despite it being posted through a distributor.
