How To Get Your Music on Boomplay: A Step-by-Step Guide for Artists

Getting your music in front of the right audience is one of the most important moves any artist can make. Boomplay, one of Africa's biggest music streaming platforms, offers that perfect stage. With millions of monthly listeners, it's the ideal place to share your sound and grow your brand. In this guide, you'll learn how to get your music on Boomplay, the tools you need, and tips to make the most of the platform.

Why Boomplay Matters

Boomplay is more than just a music app. It’s a platform built specifically for African artists and fans, with a strong focus on genres like Afrobeats, Amapiano, Hip-Hop, Gospel, and more. Here's what makes Boomplay worth your time:

• Over 95 million monthly active users

• Official partner with Billboard, meaning your streams count towards global charts

• Strong reach in key African music markets like Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and Tanzania

• Tools to promote your music, including playlist placements and artist profiles

Now let’s break down how to get started.

Step 1: Choose a Music Distributor

Boomplay doesn’t allow artists to upload music directly. Instead, you need to go through a music distributor. These platforms help you upload and distribute your songs across Boomplay and other major services.

Top recommended distributors:

• RouteNote – Offers a free plan (you keep 85% of royalties) and a premium plan (you keep 100%).

• Unchained Music – Great for independent artists, with transparent reporting and royalty tracking.

• Ditto Music – Allows unlimited releases, playlist pitching, and full royalty ownership.

• iMusician – Offers helpful analytics and access to Boomplay and other African markets.

Each of these platforms will ask for some basic info about your music and artist profile.

Step 2: Get Your Music Ready

Before uploading, make sure your files and content meet professional standards. This helps ensure approval by the distributor and a good experience for your listeners.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• High-quality audio files (preferably WAV or FLAC)

• Cover artwork (JPEG/PNG, 3000x3000 pixels, no logos or URLs)

• Accurate metadata (track name, artist name, genre, credits)

• Lyrics (optional but recommended for user engagement)

Step 3: Upload and Select Boomplay

Once your assets are ready, log into your distributor account and upload your music. Make sure you select Boomplay as one of the destinations during the submission process. Some distributors do it automatically, while others ask you to check a box.

The distributor will then review your submission and, once approved, your music will go live on Boomplay within a few days to a week.

Step 4: Claim and Customize Your Boomplay Artist Profile

After your music is available, the next step is to claim your artist profile. This gives you access to:

• A verified artist badge

• Tools to customize your bio, profile image, and background

• Performance stats and insights

• Fan engagement features

Visit Boomplay’s official artist portal or contact your distributor to help you claim your profile.

Step 5: Promote Your Music on Boomplay

Getting on the platform is only the beginning. You need to promote your tracks actively to reach new listeners and build a fan base.

Here are some smart tips:

• Pitch your music for playlist features through your distributor or Boomplay directly

• Share your Boomplay links on your social media pages (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, etc.)

• Run promotions and campaigns targeting Boomplay listeners in your country

• Collaborate with influencers and bloggers to push your songs

Boomplay also features editorial playlists and trending charts, which can give your music a big boost if you land a spot.

How You Earn From Boomplay

Boomplay uses a stream-based revenue model. Each time someone plays or downloads your music, you earn a share of revenue from Boomplay’s subscription and advertising income. Your distributor will collect your royalties and send them to you monthly or quarterly, depending on their terms.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Don’t upload low-quality or poorly mixed tracks

• Don’t forget to add proper metadata – it affects searchability

• Don’t skip on promotion. Uploading music is just the start

Final Thoughts

Boomplay is a powerful platform that has opened doors for many African artists. Whether you’re a rising act or an established musician, getting your music on Boomplay is a smart way to grow your reach and increase your revenue. Follow these steps, stay consistent with your releases, and engage with your fans—you’ll see the results.