Release planning · 5 min read
How to set up a Spotify pre-save for your release
What a Spotify pre-save is, how to get one from your distributor, and how to share it with one MelodyLane link.
Everyone can read this guide. Pre-release campaigns, fan email capture and insights need Pro or Lifetime.
- 01
Understand what a pre-save does
A pre-save lets a fan ask in advance for your upcoming release to be added to their library when it comes out. It needs the fan to sign in with their streaming account and give permission.
A MelodyLane smart link does not, on its own, save music to a fan’s Spotify library. It sends fans to the working pre-save or pre-add destination you provide, then to live listening links on release day.
- 02
Get your release delivered early
Deliver your music to your distributor well before release day, following its recommended lead time. Pre-save options usually depend on the release being delivered and scheduled.
Ask your distributor whether it offers a pre-save page or a Spotify URI for your upcoming release. Availability varies by distributor.
- 03
Create your pre-release smart link
In Dashboard → Smart Links → Create a page, choose a pre-release campaign (Pro or Lifetime). Add your artwork, release date and the working pre-save destination.
Open the page in a signed-out browser and test the pre-save button yourself before sharing.
- 04
Share it and switch to live links
Put the one link in your bio, posts and ads. Optionally turn on fan email capture so you can tell fans when the music is out.
On release day, edit the same smart link and add verified listening URLs for every service. Your shared address never changes.