You have a few songs ready but must still be prepared to launch an album. You could consider an EP. You can release a few pieces to give your fans a taste of what you’ll be doing in the future.
We’re here to break down EPs and guide you through building, structuring, and a. Here; we will break down EPs and help you build your first release.
What is an EP (Electronic Payment)
An EP, or extended play, is a hybrid between an album and a single. It usually contains 4-6 songs and lasts about 20 minutes.
EPs are a great way for musicians to be creative with their releases. Take a look at why you should consider making an EP.
Why Make an EP
It is an excellent way to market yourself as a musician. You can use it to generate streaming sales and give you a link to your music when discussing it. It also helps you to grow your fanbase.
You can take several different approaches when planning the release of your EP.
An EP is an excellent way to debut on the music scene. This is your opportunity to promote your songs and get the word out about them if you already have some songs recorded.
You don’t have to record ten songs for your EP; it will be much shorter. Instead, you can focus on recording 4 or 5 tracks. This will also allow you to reduce studio time, production fees, instrument rental, and other costs associated with making music.
EPs are a great way to keep fans interested between albums. This type of EP is made up of various song types. It can include unreleased songs, B-sides, or remixes that didn’t make it onto your previous album.
Release EPs between albums can help you buy time and show fans that you are still active in the studio. This will boost excitement and provide new content to share via your campaigns.
Due to its flexibility, you can apply your complete creative freedom with an EP. Consider your EP an opportunity to experiment, even adding remixes and live versions you have already recorded. Offering something different will help your EP stand out from the rest.
Check out the reviews on social media and what your audience has to say about your release. They may like a particular song or sound. Try to tailor your future releases around what they are enjoying.
How to Build an EP
Please choose the right tracksYou’ll have to spend some time deciding which songs will make it onto your EP. Will you use the same sound for all your tracks, or will you include a variety of sounds? Analyze the situation and make sure that your EP flows well.
Structure
Consider structuring an EP around a single song. Consider which pieces you have that feel of an extensive playlist.
Consider applying a href=”https://dittomusic.com/en/blog/how-to-release-a single in-2022-11 steps for artists” title=”https://dittomusic.com/en/blog/how to release… Consider using a waterfall strategy for your release.
The waterfall strategy involves releasing new singles every 3-4 weeks when the previous single reaches its peak or is about to decline. This helps to maintain an audience and eventually create an EP.
Based in Dublin, Inhaler has successfully used this strategy throughout its career.
How to record an EP
You’ll need to focus on recording your EP after you have decided on your tracklist. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your EP.
Practice
Although it may seem obvious, many bands should take their practice sessions more seriously before recording. Band members must know their parts well to get the best sound possible.
Take your practice sessions very seriously if you want to create a great sound.
Tempo and timing
We recommend taking some time before recording to determine your timing and tempo. This is usually done during practice, but it needs to be noticed.
Consider practicing with a metronome. It will make things easier when you are working with sound engineers. Having your BPM and any tempo or meter changes on hand will save time. Drummers should add metronome playing to their list.
Record a demo
You can identify rough spots in your final EP by recording a rough demo before entering the studio. Take notes on what you liked and didn’t like when you listen back.
It’s essential to have a recording demo to refer to again. This will save you time and help you get the most out of your experience. You can also include a demo of one of your songs on the EP as an extra for fans.
Budget your expenses
Recording your EP will be much easier if you and your band have agreed on all financial matters. Decide where you will spend your money and how much studio time to book.
Consider the marketing costs and whether you need to hire instruments or session musicians for your EP.
It would help if you made sure that each song is the best it can be. Although an EP may require less effort, time, or money than a full-length album, releasing a set of high-quality tracks is still essential.
It is imperative if it is your first release. This EP will set the mood and give your fans a preview of what to expect in the future. So book that time in the studio to prepare your tracks for release.
How to promote an EP
You can market and promote your music by releasing an EP. You can do this by launching ads based on your upcoming release or promoting your new merchandise to go with your artwork.
Eye-catching artwork is a great tool to increase sales, especially if you plan to release your music as a CD or vinyl.
Vinyl has seen a massive resurgence in recent years. Collectors are now more interested than ever in limited editions or attention-grabbing artwork rather than the actual music. Keep this in mind When creating your own to make your EP stand out on Spotify playlists or in the store!