The Waterfall Release Strategy Explained

by RMG EMPIRE STAFF October 3, 2025

Dropping a full project at once can bury great songs. The waterfall release strategy spreads a project out over time, giving each song its own moment while building toward the full EP or album.

RMG Empire insight: Great music still needs a plan. Roots Music Group builds release and marketing strategies for RMG Empire artists. See how we work.

How a Waterfall Release Works

You release one single. A few weeks later, you release the next single bundled with the first. Then the third single is released with the first two, and so on until the full project comes out.

Why It Works

• Each release is a new chance to reach followers through Release Radar
• You get multiple rounds of promotion and pitching
• Earlier songs stay in front of listeners
• Fans have a steady flow of new music

The Critical Detail: Matching ISRCs

For stream counts to stay connected, each previously released song must use the same ISRC and the same audio and metadata in every new bundle. Each bundle gets its own UPC and artwork. Read our metadata guide.

A Simple Waterfall Plan

1. Single 1 released
2. About a month later: Single 2 released with Single 1
3. About a month later: Single 3 released with Singles 1 and 2
4. Full EP or album released with the remaining songs

Tips

• Check your distributor’s instructions for waterfall releases before starting
• Create unique artwork for each release
• Pitch each new single to Spotify editorial
• Keep content flowing between drops

Deciding between formats? Read single vs. EP vs. album.

How RMG Empire Can Help

Want a team in your corner? Through RMG Empire artist services, Roots Music Group can support you with:

• Release calendars and waterfall planning for your next project
• Distribution setup and metadata that preserve your stream counts
• Rollout content for each single in the sequence
• Campaign strategy that builds toward the full project

Instead of guessing, you get a professional team, a clear plan, and people who have done this before. See our services and packages.

Take the Next Step With Roots Music Group

The right release strategy can turn one project into months of momentum. Roots Music Group Inc. is an independent record label and artist-services company with roots in Los Angeles and a network across Miami, Atlanta, and New York.

• Explore RMG Empire release and marketing services
• Submit your music for review
• Meet the RMG Empire artists

Questions? Contact the RMG Empire team.