Release Preparation Checklist
A well-prepared release gets approved faster and performs better on streaming platforms. Use this checklist before starting your upload.
✅ Cover Art
- Format: JPG or PNG only
- Dimensions: Minimum 3000 × 3000 pixels — must be perfectly square
- File size: Maximum 10 MB
- Content rules: Must represent the release clearly. No third-party logos (Spotify, Apple, etc.), no URLs or contact details, no explicit/offensive imagery
✅ Audio Files
- Preferred format: WAV (16-bit or 24-bit, 44.1 kHz)
- Avoid clipping, distortion, or extreme loudness
- Trim trailing silence to under 5 seconds
- Do not include long intros of silence
✅ Metadata
- Spell all artist names consistently across every release
- Match the release title exactly to what is on your artwork
- Use proper capitalisation — not ALL CAPS
- List featuring artists in the correct field, not in the track title
- Accurately credit all songwriters, producers, and composers
✅ Rights & Ownership
- Only distribute music you have full rights to release
- If releasing a cover song, obtain the required mechanical licence first
- Do not include uncleared samples
✅ Scheduling Tips
- Plan at least 3–4 weeks ahead for Spotify playlist pitching opportunities
- Friday is the global music release day — it gets better DSP editorial consideration
- Free plan: minimum 16 days ahead. Paid plans: minimum 5 days ahead
✅ Pre-Release Prep
- Claim your artist profiles on Spotify for Artists and Apple Music for Artists
- Create a SmartLink pre-save campaign to build momentum before your release date