How to upload audio to your EPK

When dropping your files to MP3s, use a decent bitrate. Going under 112 kbps will start to bring in a wavy sound to the songs, because of the severe compression of the audio file size. We find that 5 MB is usually more than enough for an average song that’s less than 5 minutes in length. If your song is closer to 3 minutes, try re-ripping the track at a lower bitrate (preferably 128 kbps) to keep the file size down.

You should also make sure you have Cookies, Java, and Javascript enabled on your browser. Blocking any one of those will interfere with your ability to use the site.

If you’re using a dial-up Internet connection, it will take a very long time to upload audio, and dial-up connections can also be less reliable. Try uploading from a different computer with a high-speed connection if you have access to one; Kinko’s and other business centers usually have public computers that can be used for a nominal fee. What you save in frustration and time will probably make it worthwhile.

Learn how to make mp3 files.

If you have any trouble downloading iTunes, you can also check out Zamzar.com for free online file conversion. Because it’s online, you do not need to download any software to convert your audio files.

There’s also a thread about this on our forum. Read it if you’d like, and feel free to add your own thoughts or questions about this topic.

• All audio tracks that are uploaded into an EPK are downloadable by default. If you’d like to turn off downloads on your EPK, you can do so in the Edit My EPK section by unchecking the box that says “Allow users to download my audio files.”

What do I put on my EPK’s audio section?

A question many people ask is whether to put the full song or just a clip on the EPK. Either is fine, really, but keep in mind that a lot of people decide whether or not they like a song in the first 30 seconds. Putting a clip of a song allows you to show the meat and potatoes of the tune without having to worry about the listener losing interest with a long intro, interlude, etc.

On the flip side, clips may not show all the dynamic changes of a song or showcase all of your songwriting talents. Some song intros are just so good (think about Europe and “The Final Countdown”) you may wish to include the entire track.

As for sound quality, there are obviously a lot of things to consider. Studio time is expensive, and demo recordings are often sufficient for submitting to coffeehouses and clubs. However, lower quality recordings may hinder your chances for being selected for high profile gigs where having a professional album is an unstated requirement. Compilation CDs, radio opportunities, licensing opportunities, and songwriting competitions very often require high quality recordings as well.

Avoid using cassette tapes, and songs recorded with a laptop mic while you play in your basement. The recording quality can get so bad that it becomes distracting to the listener. Digital audio has made so many leaps and bounds in the past few years that it’s easy and affordable to make your own demo-quality recordings.

If a song has lyrics, include those, too, and make sure they are in the same order as your tunes. Many folks like to read along with the lyrics as they listen to songs, so it’s best to include that information for them — unless of course if you’re a jazz scat artist (‘skiddle dee bop ta doo bop’ doesn’t always need to be written out). Songwriting competitions and compilation CDs often review lyrics when making their selections as well.

Leave a Reply