Releasing music during the Christmas season: a blessing or a visibility trap?
At first, it sounds like a nice idea:
"I want to release my song before the end of the year."
Maybe you've been working on your music all year. Maybe it's a personal track. Maybe you're thinking, "If I don't release it now, everything feels incomplete."
But December is not a normal release month.
People are tired. Feeds are full of mulled wine, snow photos, and gift ideas. Playlists are dominated by Christmas songs—and even the biggest names are fighting for attention.
So what should you do if your release is still scheduled for December, or has to be?
Here are three clever strategies you can actually use:
1. The soft drop with afterburners
Release the song quietly in December, without any major promotion.
Use the quiet time for internal testing (e.g., Spotify Ads, content preparation, mood clips).
And start the real campaign in January when the audience is receptive again.
For example, you can start with an emotional New Year's reel:
"New year, new perspective, this song carried me through the winter."
2. Connect emotionally, don't just advertise
Especially in December, advertising no longer works through volume, but through emotion.
Tell us in your caption why you released this song right now.
Example:
"I wrote this song when I felt completely lost in winter. Maybe it's just right for you right now."
Create visual reels with warmth (lights, family, retreat, snow) that match the holiday spirit; this often works better than standard "Out now!" posts.
3. Collect pre-saves and feedback as a "test run"
If you realize that you would rather launch in January, but the deadline is looming,
use December to start pre-save campaigns, conduct small circle feedback rounds, and engage your community.
This way, the song won't just be "checked off" but will become part of your 2026 launch.
You are a musician, not just a content manager.
If your song wants to be released now, trust yourself. But make sure it is seen and heard.
Not by making more noise. But through timing, feeling, and strategy.
Kind regards