An EP, or extended play, is a musical recording that contains more music than a single, but less than an album. It was initially released as a CD or vinyl, but can now also be streamed online.
EPs are shorter than albums but contain more than a single track (single). They’re a great way for artists to release new music without committing to a full album.
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The purpose of an EP
An EP can be used for a variety of purposes. They can be used to tide over fans until a full album is released, or they can be used to test out new material. EPs are also a great way for unsigned or independent artists to get their music out there before releasing an official album.
Especially when starting, bands tend to release an EP as a sort of test material. Without being overwhelmed with dropping an album, an EP is a very suitable option to gauge the music world and test the waters.
The number of songs in an EP
An EP typically has three to six songs but can have up to eight as long as it does not exceed 30 minutes. If it only runs within 10 minutes, it is identified as a single. Another thing to keep in mind is that music platforms like Spotify and iTunes consider it as an EP if it has a minimum of four songs.
Benefits of Releasing an EP Before an Album
- It can help you gauge the reception of your new music. If you’re not sure how your new songs will be received, releasing an EP is a great way to test the waters. You can see how popular each song is and get a feel for what your fans want more of.
- You can get more creative with an EP since there’s less pressure to produce a certain number of songs.
- EPs are usually cheaper and quicker to produce than albums, so they’re a great option if you’re on a budget.
Generally, releasing an EP can help you build up a buzz around your music. If people like what they hear, they’ll be more likely to check out your album when it’s released!
Final Thoughts
An EP can be a great way to get your music career started. It can help you build a following and gain exposure. It can also be a great way to test out new material and see how it goes over with your audience. If you’re thinking of releasing an EP, make sure to do your research and plan ahead.
