With digital streaming shaping the future of music, many are questioning where EPs and traditional albums fit in 2025. For new artists, especially, the big concern is deciding which format makes the most sense when releasing music for the first time. Should they focus on shorter, impactful EPs, or go all-in with a full-length album to showcase their artistry?
Let’s dig deeper and understand what would be the best move.
The difference between a single, an EP, and an album
The difference between a single, an album, and an EP mainly comes down to two factors:
1. Length – the number of tracks included
2. Duration – the total running time of the project
An album, a single, and an EP each serve a different purpose and give artists unique ways to showcase their music. An album or LP (Long Play) is a full-length release, typically featuring 7 to 29 tracks with a total runtime of about 35 to 60 minutes. On the other hand, an EP or Extended Play is shorter, usually containing 4 to 6 tracks. It also runs between 15 to 22 minutes, though it can sometimes stretch up to 30 minutes. Lastly, a single is the shortest format, which is made up of 1 to 3 tracks and has a total runtime of under 10 minutes.
What should you release?
Choosing to record and release an EP, a single, or an album depends on several personal factors. This includes your budget, the target audience you want to reach, and your overall music goals. So let’s uncover each segment for a clear understanding.
1. Music budget
When it comes to costs, EPs are far more affordable to create compared to full-length albums. Since they usually contain about half the number of songs, you are instantly cutting down a large portion of the expenses involved in the recording process. Think about everything that goes into making a track: studio time, mixing and mastering, hiring session musicians, renting instruments, and working with producers. Now imagine doubling that for an album. It quickly adds up!
If you choose to release an EP, you can reduce these costs significantly while still putting out a professional and polished body of work. This makes EPs an attractive option, especially for new and independent musicians who may not have the budget to commit to a full album. On top of being cost-effective, EPs also allow artists to release music more frequently, which keeps fans engaged without long gaps. It is a practical way to build momentum and showcase talent. Moreover, you can grow an audience while saving money for future projects.
2. Target audience
The type of release you choose plays a huge role in how fans connect with your music. For many new artists, an EP is often the best introduction. It is short and easy to listen to. It also does not overwhelm potential fans with too many tracks at once. An EP usually features four to six songs, giving new listeners a clear sense of your style while still leaving them wanting more. Because of its shorter length, an EP is also less risky for someone who has never heard your music before. They are more likely to hit play on an EP than invest time in a full album. In addition to that, EPs can also help you turn casual listeners into warmer fans who follow your journey and look forward to your next release.
Albums, on the other hand, go a step further. They are bigger and more ambitious projects that allow you to dive deeper into your artistry. You get more tracks to play with, so you can experiment and tell a broader story. You can create a stronger emotional connection with fans who already enjoy your sound with an album. They usually help strengthen bonds with your existing fan base, while also turning some of them into die-hard superfans who stick with you over the long run. So, if discovery is your goal, an EP is often the smarter first step.
3. Musical objectives
When deciding on what to release, the first question to ask yourself is simple: what do you want this project to achieve? If your main goal is to raise your artist profile, show a new side of your sound, or build up momentum for something bigger like launching merch or announcing a tour, then a full album might be the stronger move.
Albums have the weight and presence to make a statement. They give you room to explore, experiment, and showcase the full scope of what you can do. They also provide a deeper, longer-lasting impression, which can be powerful if you are already starting to establish yourself and want to level up. An album signals growth and ambition, showing fans and the industry that you’re serious about your music.
On the other hand, if you are still experimenting with your style and focused on gaining exposure, or simply trying to stay consistent by putting out music more regularly, an EP is often the better choice. With fewer tracks, it is quicker to produce and easier on your budget. An EP is also more approachable for new listeners who do not yet know you or your sound.
EPs are great stepping stones that allow you to share quality music without the pressure of a full album. They give fans a taste of your sound while keeping them curious for more. And while there is no single formula that works for everyone. Most new and emerging artists benefit from releasing an EP early on, as it helps build an audience and set the stage for bigger projects down the line.
What should be your strategy?
• EP release strategy
When releasing an EP, the rule is not to keep your fans waiting. A smart move is to drop singles consistently, a method known as the ‘Waterfall Strategy.’ According to this strategy, you release one track at a time. This is how you build momentum while shaping your EP. Later, you can handpick 4-6 of the best-performing songs for the final project. This approach not only keeps your audience engaged but also ensures your EP is made up of tracks fans already love. It also doubles as your strongest portfolio and guides future music direction.
• Album release strategy
Releasing an album is a whole different game compared to singles or EPs. Writing, recording, and promoting can take months or even over a year. This risks losing your audience’s attention. That is why keeping singles flowing is important, even during the album process. Many major artists use this strategy. For example, Adele dropped ‘Easy On Me’ before unveiling her album ‘30.’ Releasing singles first builds momentum, keeps fans engaged, and makes the full album drop far more impactful. In addition to that, post-album content is just as important as the launch itself!
To conclude everything, there is no single formula for every artist. The choice between an EP and an album will always depend on your unique path. What matters most is understanding the pros and cons of each before diving into a release. Take a step back, look at your budget, your audience, and where you are in your journey right now. Then choose the format that aligns with your goals. The right strategy is the one that helps you grow while staying true to your music!
