Guide
How to Get an Official Artist Channel on YouTube
How to claim your YouTube Official Artist Channel — eligibility, the claim process, and merging releases with your channel.
An Official Artist Channel merges your YouTube uploads with your music releases under a verified artist brand. Claiming it improves discovery and professional presentation.
Steps
1 Check eligibility
You need a YouTube channel (or create one) and music delivered to YouTube Music through a participating distributor.
- Zaventra Music Group delivers to YouTube Music
- Your channel must match your artist identity
2 Apply through the claim flow
YouTube prompts eligible artists to claim their OAC when they open the artist channel page. Follow the on-screen steps.
- You may need to link your distributor account
- Approval typically takes a few weeks
3 Merge channels if needed
If you have multiple channels, request a merge during the claim so all your content sits under one OAC.
- Merging consolidates your audience
- Choose the primary channel to keep
4 Use your OAC
Upload videos, link the channel in your bios, and monitor how releases appear on the artist page.
- The OAC displays your catalog automatically
- It strengthens your presence across YouTube
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an OAC free?
Yes — claiming is free for eligible artists.
What if I don't have a channel?
Create one first with your artist name, then claim the OAC.
How do I know if I'm eligible?
Your distributor's YouTube delivery plus a channel makes you eligible. YouTube shows the claim option when available.