TIDAL has launched Upload, a built-in tool that lets independent artists publish up to 200 original tracks directly to TIDAL without a distributor. It’s fast and free for eligible users, but uploads do not earn streaming royalties; instead TIDAL pairs the feature with editorial spotlighting and cash incentives.
What the feature does
- Artists (who own the rights) can upload tracks, add cover art and metadata, and choose whether to publish publicly or keep files private for collaborators. Uploaded songs can stream alongside TIDAL’s catalog almost immediately.
- Uploads are simple and fast — TIDAL advertises near-instant availability once a file is added. There’s an individual file size cap and an upload cap of up to 200 tracks per account.
The economics — the big caveat
TIDAL is explicit: tracks uploaded through Upload do not earn streaming royalties the way distributor-released tracks do. Instead, TIDAL is emphasizing discovery and community sharing rather than direct per-stream payouts. For artists who want passive streaming income, traditional distribution remains necessary.
Incentives & discovery opportunities
To encourage use, TIDAL has added promotional programs tied to Upload:
- Spotlight/Featured placements — editors can highlight Upload tracks on playlists and the homepage; TIDAL says selected artists can receive payments (advertised as daily Cash App payouts while featured).
- Upload Headliners contest — a short-term promotion awarding ten U.S. artists $100,000 each, with submissions open through the contest window. Official contest rules and entry details are on TIDAL’s site.
Who can use it now
At launch Upload is available to users in the United States who are at least 18 years old; TIDAL says more updates and wider rollouts are planned. Artists must own the rights to what they upload and follow copyright rules.
What this means for indie artists
TIDAL Upload is a fast, low-friction way to get demos, drafts, or finished tracks in front of listeners and TIDAL editors — great for visibility and collaboration. But it isn’t a replacement for distributors if you depend on streaming royalties long term. Use Upload for exposure, promo, testing, and contest opportunities — and keep traditional distribution for catalog monetization.
