Before You Start
- Verify all songwriting credits and splits are finalized.
- Confirm publishing information and rights holders.
- Decide on release date (allow 2-4 weeks minimum lead time).
- Choose your distributor and review their requirements.
Audio Preparation
- Final master files in WAV or FLAC format.
- Sample rate: 44,100 Hz, bit depth: 16-bit or 24-bit.
- Loudness: Target -14 LUFS integrated.
- True peak: Below -1 dBTP.
- No clipping, distortion or excessive silence.
- Use the Audio Analyzer tool to verify all specifications.
Metadata Completion
- Track titles verified and correctly formatted.
- Artist names consistent with existing profiles.
- ISRC codes assigned to every recording.
- UPC/EAN assigned to the release.
- Featured artists correctly credited.
- Genre and sub-genre selected.
- Release date confirmed.
- Language of lyrics specified.
Artwork Compliance
- 3000 x 3000 pixels minimum.
- 1:1 aspect ratio (square).
- JPEG or PNG format, RGB color mode.
- No explicit text or prohibited content.
- Parental advisory label applied if needed.
- Use the Artwork Validator tool to check compliance.
Final Review
- Preview how metadata appears on streaming platforms.
- Verify all links and URLs are correct.
- Check pre-save links if applicable.
- Confirm marketing materials match release metadata.
Related Resources