How to Pre-Save a Song on Apple Music: Your Definitive Guide

So, you’ve got a track dropping soon and want to make sure your fans (or you, for that matter!) can access it the second it’s released on Apple Music. Excellent. While Apple Music doesn’t technically have a direct “pre-save” feature like Spotify, the workaround achieves the same result. The key is leveraging pre-add links generated through distributor platforms and then utilizing Apple Music’s existing functionality.

To pre-save a song on Apple Music, you will actually be pre-adding the song. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Obtain a Pre-Add Link: This is the crucial step. You’ll get this link from your music distributor (like DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby, etc.). These distributors have backend tools to generate special links specifically for pre-adds on Apple Music. Make sure you request this link well in advance of your release date.
2. Share the Link: Distribute this link across all your platforms – social media, website, email list, carrier pigeon, whatever works! The more people who click, the better the launch.
3. User Action: When a user clicks the link, it takes them directly to the song or album on Apple Music. They’ll see a button that says “Pre-Add.” Clicking this button adds the song or album to their library.
4. Automatic Download: On the release date, the song or album will automatically download to their Apple Music library, making it available for offline listening.

That’s the gist of it! It’s a straightforward process made possible by the infrastructure your distributor provides. The more strategically you deploy that pre-add link, the more impactful your release will be. Think of it as planting seeds for a bountiful musical harvest.

Unlocking the Power of Pre-Adds: Deeper Dive

While the process sounds simple, there’s more to it than meets the eye. Understanding why pre-adds are important and how to maximize their effectiveness is crucial.

Why Pre-Adds Matter

• Boosting Visibility: Pre-adds signal to Apple Music’s algorithm that your song or album is highly anticipated. This increased engagement can improve your chances of being featured on playlists and charts, giving your release a significant boost in visibility.
• Driving Initial Streams: The automatic download on release day ensures an immediate influx of streams, which is vital for charting and maintaining momentum. Those first 24-48 hours are critical.
• Building Hype: A well-executed pre-add campaign creates excitement and anticipation among your fanbase. It’s a tangible way for them to show their support and feel involved in your release.
• Gathering Data: Distributors often provide analytics related to pre-add activity, giving you valuable insights into your audience and the effectiveness of your marketing efforts.

Maximizing Your Pre-Add Strategy

• Early Planning: Don’t wait until the last minute. Request your pre-add link from your distributor at least 4-6 weeks before your release date. This gives you ample time to plan and execute your campaign.
• Compelling Content: Create engaging content around your pre-add link. Share snippets of your song, behind-the-scenes videos, or stories about the inspiration behind your music.
• Consistent Promotion: Don’t just share the link once and forget about it. Consistently promote it across all your platforms, reminding your fans to pre-add your song or album.
• Incentives: Consider offering incentives to encourage pre-adds, such as exclusive content, early access to merchandise, or a chance to win a prize.
• Targeted Marketing: Use social media advertising to target specific demographics who are likely to enjoy your music.
• Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with music influencers to promote your pre-add link to their audience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about pre-saving (pre-adding) on Apple Music.

1. Is there a direct “Pre-Save” button on Apple Music like Spotify?

No, Apple Music doesn’t have a native “Pre-Save” button. The functionality is achieved through pre-add links provided by your distributor. Clicking these links allows users to add the song or album to their library before the release date.

2. How do I get a Pre-Add link for Apple Music?

Contact your music distributor (DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby, etc.). They have the tools to generate the necessary pre-add link specifically for Apple Music. This is usually done during the release setup process within their platform.

3. How far in advance should I request my Pre-Add link?

It’s recommended to request your pre-add link at least 4-6 weeks before your release date. This allows ample time to create a promotional campaign and maximize its effectiveness.

4. What happens when someone clicks my Pre-Add link?

When a user clicks the link, it takes them directly to the song or album on Apple Music. They’ll see a button that says “Pre-Add.” Clicking this button adds the song or album to their library.

5. Will the song automatically download to my fans’ Apple Music libraries on release day?

Yes, if they have automatic downloads enabled in their Apple Music settings. Otherwise, it will simply appear in their library, and they’ll need to manually download it for offline listening. Remind your fans to check their settings!

6. What if I don’t use a distributor? Can I still create a Pre-Add link?

Unfortunately, no. Pre-add links are generated by distributors, and they act as the bridge between Apple Music and your music. If you’re not using a distributor, you won’t be able to offer pre-adds. This is a significant reason why most artists opt for distribution services.

7. Can I track how many people Pre-Added my song?

Yes, most distributors provide analytics and reporting on pre-add activity. This data can help you understand the effectiveness of your marketing efforts and identify areas for improvement.

8. Does Pre-Adding guarantee placement on Apple Music playlists?

No, pre-adding doesn’t guarantee playlist placement. However, it significantly increases your chances. The higher the number of pre-adds, the stronger the signal you send to Apple Music’s algorithm that your song is highly anticipated, making it more likely to be considered for editorial playlists.

9. What’s the difference between a Pre-Add and a Pre-Order?

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, “pre-add” generally refers to adding a song or album to your Apple Music library before its release, while “pre-order” traditionally refers to purchasing a physical copy or a digital download (outside of a streaming subscription). With Apple Music, the pre-add function is most relevant as it focuses on integrating the music directly into the user’s streaming library.

10. I changed my release date. Do I need a new Pre-Add link?

Yes, if you change your release date with your distributor, you’ll almost certainly need a new pre-add link. The old link will likely become invalid. Contact your distributor to generate a new link with the updated release information.

11. What if someone Pre-Adds my song, but they don’t have an active Apple Music subscription on release day?

If their Apple Music subscription is inactive on the release date, the song won’t automatically download. However, if they renew their subscription later, the song will still be in their library and available for streaming and download.

12. Are Pre-Adds only for singles, or can I use them for albums too?

You can use pre-adds for both singles and albums. In fact, pre-adding an album is a great way to build anticipation for a full release. The same principles apply – obtain the pre-add link from your distributor and promote it widely.