Spotify Canvas enhances your track on Spotify by adding an additional layer of engagement through dynamic video features.
Every artist on Spotify now has access to the Spotify Canvas feature, and setting it up through Spotify for Artists is straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of how to get started with it.
Add videos to your music with Spotify Canvas
Spotify Canvas allows artists to upload brief video clips, typically 3 to 8 seconds long, to accompany their tracks when they are released on Spotify. These videos enhance the visual appeal and engagement of the music, providing an opportunity to strengthen the artist's brand and offer additional insights to listeners. Once uploaded, the Canvas video loops continuously on the Spotify app screen whenever the track is played.
Spotify Canvas video specifications
Here's what you need to understand about the rules and specifications your video must meet before Spotify accepts it.
- 9:16 ratio (vertical)
- At least 720px tall
- An MP4 or JPEG file
- Video must be 3s to 8s long
- No URLS or Call-to-actions
- Any text must relevant to the track
If your Canvas video doesn't meet the criteria mentioned, you won't be able to upload it. Ensure you consider all this information before proceeding.
How to create a Spotify Canvas
If you have a good music marketing budget, consider hiring a graphic designer for creating your Canvas videos. If you're skilled in design, Adobe tools such as Photoshop, Premiere, and After Effects can be invaluable. Another option is repurposing a clip from your music video to meet the Canvas specifications. Whichever method you choose, here are some tips to maximize the impact of your video clips:
Strengthen your brand presence
Your Canvas videos provide an ideal chance to emphasize your identity. Incorporate specific colors, themes, or graphics that reflect your track or artist persona, ensuring they resonate with your audience.
Share the narrative behind your music
Although a few seconds is brief, use visuals in your Canvas to provide a glimpse into the meaning behind your music. Thoughtfully consider how you want to convey your song's narrative and integrate it effectively.
Singing or rapping might seem unusual
Since your Canvas video plays on a continuous loop, singing or rapping in the video may not synchronize perfectly with the music. However, this can be intentional and reflect your artistic style. Just keep in mind that viewers may notice the mismatch between mouth movements and lyrics.
Experiment with various looping methods
Although 3 to 8 seconds isn't much to utilize, there are intriguing looping techniques to explore. Consider creating a 'Continuous Loop' by seamlessly connecting the end of your clip with the beginning, giving the impression of an endless video. Alternatively, experiment with a 'Bouncing Loop' by reversing the second half of the video to achieve a dynamic back-and-forth effect. Of course, a straightforward 'Hard-Cut Loop' can also be effective. The key is to experiment with different methods and discover which suits your vision best.
Avoid flashing images
Minimize flashing images or rapid cuts in your Canvas videos. These can be visually disruptive and potentially unpleasant for photosensitive viewers. Ensure your video flows smoothly to maintain engagement with your track.
Minimize the use of text whenever you can
Spotify permits text on Canvas videos if it pertains to the track, but avoid redundant information like your artist or track name, as it's already displayed on screen.
Keep in mind, you can update your Canvas at any time
With Spotify Canvas, nothing is set in stone. You can update and modify your Canvas videos and images whenever you like, so feel free to experiment and try different ideas. You can track the number of views your Canvas receives in the Music tab of your Spotify for Artists account. If one Canvas performs exceptionally well, it might indicate a direction worth pursuing further.
How to upload a Spotify Canvas
Now that we know what a Spotify Canvas should look like, how do you upload it? It's actually quite simple. Here's how:
1. Log into your Spotify for Artists account, head to the Music tab and select Releases.
2. Choose a release and click Add Canvas.
3. Drag and drop your MP4 or JPEG file when prompted or just click to select one.
4. Hit Next, agree to the terms and click Post.
That's it, you're done! Don't worry if it doesn't appear live on Spotify immediately; it may take an hour or so to become visible to all Spotify users.