How To Send Fans directly To iTunes Instead Of Apple Music

While many links artists put up to their music now go to Apple Music instead of iTunes, there is still a way around this change for those who wish to have their fans buy instead of listen.

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Guest Post by Chris Robley of CD Baby on The DIY Musician

You may have already discovered that some of the existing links to your music on the iTunes store now open up Apple Music as the default. If you hadn’t, go to your website now and click on the links to iTunes; see what happens.

Depending on the user and the circumstance, it’s possible that those old links will open the web version of iTunes (not opening the iTunes store within the iTunes player) on your computer. At least that’s what happens on my desktop when I click the iTunes link from my website. But if I click the same exact link on my iPhone… Apple Music.

Anyway, as far as I’m concerned that’s all well and good. The two services are meant to live side-by-side as easy companions. Want to listen? Apple Music. Want to buy? iTunes. Both options are available from the same general location.

But it might also be wise to direct your fans to the EXACT location they want to be (especially if your music is not up for streaming on Apple Music). In that case, it’s still possible to make sure they end up on iTunes instead of Apple Music. Here’s how:

1. Go to Apple’s Link Maker tool.

2. Search for your artist name, album title, or single.

3. Select the link from the six options provided (including badges and text links for both iTunes and Apple Music).

4. Copy the code and head over to your website to paste/embed.

I’ve seen some other articles on this subject that offer good advice regarding messaging, and the main point is this:if you’re using text links, be sure to set up the appropriate expectation.

For instance, use:

* “Listen on Apple Music” or “Play on Apple Music” or “Hear on Apple Music” (instead of “stream”)

* use “Buy” or “Purchase” for iTunes

What’s your experience been like with Apple Music so far, either as an artist promoting your music or as a listener? Let me know in the comments below.