Artist Release Guide
You've finished the recording. Now it's time to get your music in front of listeners. Use this guide to move from finished track to an organized, effective release.
Finish the Music
Make sure your recording, editing, mixing, and mastering are complete before sending your song to distribution.
- Listen on headphones and speakers
- Check the song in your car
- Keep a high-quality WAV master
- Confirm all credits are correct
Prepare Your Artwork
Your cover is often the first thing people see. Make sure it looks professional and meets your distributor's requirements.
- Use high-resolution artwork
- Use images you have permission to use
- Avoid unauthorized logos or copyrighted material
Organize Your Song Info
Have the important details ready before uploading.
- Artist and song name
- Featured artists
- Producer and songwriter credits
- Lyrics, if applicable
- Genre
- Release date
- Explicit / non-explicit designation
- ISRC, if already assigned
Choose a Distributor
A music distributor delivers your release to streaming and digital music platforms.
- DistroKid
- TuneCore
- CD Baby
- Symphonic
- UnitedMasters
Don't Release Too Quickly
Whenever possible, upload your music several weeks before your desired release date. This gives your distributor time to process the release and gives you time to prepare your promotion.
Build Your Promotion First
Don't wait until release day to start promoting. Prepare your content before the song goes live.
- Short videos / Reels / TikToks
- Behind-the-scenes content
- Cover artwork and graphics
- Pre-save link, if available
- Website and social posts
- Song description and story
Make Some Noise
When your song goes live, make it easy for people to find and listen to it.
- Share your streaming links
- Post across your social platforms
- Tag collaborators
- Update your website
- Ask listeners to save and share
Promote After Release
Release day is only the beginning. Continue creating content around the song for several weeks.
- Try different clips from the song
- Share lyrics or memorable lines
- Show behind-the-scenes footage
- Share your production process
- Perform or showcase the song
Plan Ahead
Give your music room to breathe. A little preparation can make your release much more organized.
Don't Treat a Release Like a Single Event
Treat it like a campaign. A great song can be overlooked if nobody knows it exists. Give yourself time to prepare, build anticipation, and continue promoting after the song comes out.
Let's Build Your Release Plan
Not sure what to do after the recording is finished? Schedule a consultation with Studio 757 and talk through your music, release timeline, distribution, and next steps.
Book a Studio 757 ConsultationWe'll help you turn your finished recording into a release plan.
