How to increase Spotify pre-saves and release day streams for indie artists

Your fans watch on YouTube, but your release lives on Spotify. Most viewers will only read the first one or two lines of your video description. If your main link is buried, they will not see it. The fix is simple and reliable: place one plain request and one short link in the first two lines during pre-launch, then switch that same spot to the live stream link on release day.

Before we set it up, a quick definition so everyone is on the same page.

What is a pre-save

A pre-save lets a listener save your upcoming song before it is live. They tap a link, choose Spotify, and confirm. On release day the song appears in their library without them doing anything else. This helps you get more day one plays, which can help the track build early momentum.

You can set up a pre-save link after you submit the release to your distributor. Most distributors or smart link tools will provide a single URL you can share.

Why the first two lines matter

YouTube collapses descriptions by default. On both mobile and desktop, viewers only see the first one or two lines unless they tap Show more. If the request and link are not in those first lines, many people will never see them. Keeping just one clear request and one short link in that spot removes friction and increases clicks.

Most channels bury the pre-save under social links and merch. The wording is vague, or there are several competing links in the first lines. Then on release day the description is never updated, so viewers keep clicking an old pre-save instead of the live track. The result is fewer pre-saves, fewer first day streams, and missed momentum.

The fix, step by step

Follow this simple schedule. It works for most indie releases and keeps you focused on one action at a time.

1. Two to four weeks before release: place a single pre-save request and link in the first line of your description on every relevant video. Use plain words anyone understands.

Copy example:

Save the new single now so it shows up on release day (pre-save) → https://example.com/presave

Tips: Avoid stacking multiple links in the first lines.

2. Three to seven days before release: add the same request and link as the top line in a pinned comment. Some viewers read comments first.
3. Release morning in your audience time zone: replace the pre-save line with a stream request and your live Spotify link. Do this across all relevant videos, not just the latest upload.

Copy example:

Stream the new single → https://example.com/stream

4. First week after release: keep the stream link in the first lines. This is your most valuable period for early plays.
5. After week one: decide your next goal. Keep the stream link if the track is still your focus, or switch that spot to your next priority like follow the artist, watch the video, or join the list.

Plan the switch

Put a calendar reminder for release morning in your main audience time zone. Prepare your stream link the day before. On the day, update every video that mentions the song, including teasers, shorts, and behind the scenes. After the first week, check results and decide whether to keep the stream link or change the focus.

Automate it with Sendari

If you use Sendari you can set this once and let it update on time.

• Create a campaign for your release
• Add one campaign message for each step, and set the start date for each message
• Target music videos and any video that mentions the song by selecting the good playlist in the campaign.

Where to place the link and how to write it

Put the request and link in the very first line of the description. Keep the sentence short and clear. Avoid multiple calls to action in the first two lines. Move other links below the fold so the main action stands out. If your catalog is large, repeat the same link in a pinned comment to catch more readers.

If you use Sendari you can schedule the switch across your catalog and target only music videos. Analytics show which videos drove the most pre-saves and streams.

Examples by video type

Music video during pre-launch: use a direct save request in the first line.

Save the new single now so it shows up on release day (pre-save) → https://example.com/presave

Music video on release day: swap to a stream request and keep it simple.

Stream the new single → https://example.com/stream

Shorts or teaser during pre-launch: remind viewers it will appear for them on day one.

Save the track for release day (pre-save) → https://example.com/presave

Behind the scenes or vlog after release: point people to listen now with one link.

Listen to the new single → https://example.com/stream

Common mistakes to avoid

Avoid these pitfalls. Each one lowers clicks or causes confusion.

• Hiding the main link under social links or merch
• Using vague text like Check this out instead of a direct request
• Putting two or more main links in the first lines
• Forgetting to switch from pre-save to stream on release day

Quick checklist

• One simple sentence and one link in the first two lines
• Pre-launch: ask for a pre-save
• Release day: switch to stream
• Apply to music videos and any video that mentions the song
• Review results after week one and adjust

Let your most engaged fans take the next step easily. Keep the action clear, keep the link first, and rotate it on time.