Music Release and Production Checklist

What a good one includes

• Detailed specifications for final audio files, including sample rates and bit depths required by major digital service providers.
• A dedicated metadata worksheet capturing ISRCs, UPCs, exact songwriter credits, and publishing splits to ensure accurate royalty distribution.
• Clear dimensions and file formats for cover art, Spotify Canvas videos, and promotional press kits to prevent platform rejection.
• A publishing and copyright registration schedule, identifying which performance rights organizations and mechanical licensing agencies to notify.
• A chronological timeline for pitching to Spotify Editorial, Amazon Music, and Apple Music curators at least three to four weeks before release.
• A social media and newsletter teaser schedule mapped out day-by-day leading up to, during, and after release day.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Setting a release date that is too close, which prevents pitching to editorial playlists and leaves zero buffer time for metadata corrections.
• Neglecting to clear samples or secure signed split sheets with collaborators before the track is submitted to distributors.
• Uploading low-quality cover art or files with incorrect text formatting that fail to meet strict digital service provider specifications.
• Forgetting to register the song with a Performance Rights Organization, leading to permanently lost performance and mechanical royalties.

Frequently asked questions