Release checklist
Before you upload a song, check the boring details.
A release can fail for simple reasons: the wrong file, missing credits, unclear ownership, weak artwork, or a rushed date. This checklist is written for independent producers and artists who want a clean first submission to a distributor.
Audio files
- Export the final master as WAV unless your distributor asks for another format.
- Listen once from start to finish after export, not only inside the DAW.
- Check the intro and ending silence so the track does not feel clipped or delayed.
- Keep an instrumental, clean, and explicit version when the release needs them.
Metadata
- Confirm artist name, featured artists, producer credits, song title, and version labels.
- Write down BPM and key for your own catalog, even when the store does not require them.
- Decide whether the release is a single, EP, or album before building the upload.
- Use consistent capitalization across artwork, distributor metadata, and social posts.
Rights and credits
- Confirm that every sample, loop, beat, and vocal has permission for the planned use.
- Save license receipts or written approvals in one folder.
- Agree on splits before release day, not after the track starts moving.
- Document who owns the master and who controls publishing.
Release timing
- Give stores enough lead time for review and playlist pitching.
- Prepare short-form video clips, cover image, caption drafts, and pre-save link copy.
- Check that your public artist profile links point to the right person.
- After release, test Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and distributor dashboard links.