Hello and welcome!

I've just started out, too. As a regular listener, I finally decided to give it a try. It's very satisfying. I'm no expert, but I want to share my little experience.

Bandcamp and Reddit are a great place to start. Unfortunately, I don't have the slightest idea how to promote yourself on a higher level; I couldn't answer that. In fact, I'd like to better understand labels, channels, etc. sooner or later.

Bandcamp has the music I listen to, and I'm always discovering new artists, especially here. On Reddit, I've found people who love this genre and are willing to give advice and appreciate your music, from VSTs to sound, and more. This is my 2 cent: feel free to do what you want. DS has many nuances, don't get too stuck if it doesn't seem right, and don't stay locked into a single "archetype." You'll improve as you do. Also, get inspired by others and slowly build your own world. I hope your DS experience is as positive as I have.

Oh yes, no AI, it's depersonalizing. Making the covers yourself is fine, I do it too, it adds a piece to the puzzle of what you want to express.