Use the same spelling and styling on every service. Double-check which existing Spotify or Apple Music artist page belongs to you.
From master to release
Your master is finished. Here’s what comes next.
Your master is only one part of a clean release. Use this short guide to prepare the file, artwork, credits and timing before you send anything to a distributor.
Your audio still stays yours. This guide does not upload or inspect a file.
01
The file
Start with one finished, lossless master.
Send your distributor a WAV or FLAC master, not the MP3 you made for messages or quick listening. Lossless delivery preserves the finished audio before each streaming service creates its own listening formats.
- Listen to the beginning, middle and end of the exported file.
- Check that the first sound and final fade are not cut off.
- Keep the original mix and the final master as separate files.
- Use a clear file name you can still recognise six months from now.
DistroKid currently accepts WAV and FLAC among several formats, and recommends them for best quality. Always check your chosen distributor's current requirements.
02
The cover
Make artwork that survives a thumbnail.
A cover is often seen at a few centimetres wide. One clear focal point and readable contrast usually travel better than tiny details. Check it at full size and as a small square before submitting.
- Export a square RGB image; a 3000 × 3000 px JPG is a useful target.
- Use artwork and photography you have permission to publish.
- Avoid URLs, QR codes, prices and streaming-service logos.
- Make sure the artist and release identity match the metadata.
03
The credits
Write the details once, then copy them consistently.
Prepare the information in a note before opening the upload form. Consistent spelling helps stores connect a release to the right artist pages and keeps collaborators properly credited.
Write the final track order and featured-artist formatting. Avoid changing it casually after submission.
Collect the names and roles now. Upload forms may require a songwriter's real name even when the public artist uses a stage name.
Do not submit a cover, remix or sample until the necessary permission or licence is clear. Mark explicit content accurately.
04
The date
Give the release room to arrive.
Store processing is not instant or identical everywhere. DistroKid currently recommends uploading about four weeks ahead when you want the same planned release date across services. That also gives you time to pitch, prepare links and correct anything you notice.
4 weeks outSubmit audio, artwork and details
Before launchCheck store links and artist profiles
Release dayListen, verify and share one clear link
05
The delivery service
Choose a distributor that fits how you release.
A distributor sends your audio, artwork and metadata to services such as Spotify and Apple Music. It does not replace mastering, rights clearance or your final review. Compare pricing, supported stores, payout terms and how easy it is to edit or remove a release.
A straightforward option
7% offwhen you sign up through this link
Continue with DistroKid
If DistroKid suits your release, our link gives you 7% off when you sign up. You will still review the current plan and terms on DistroKid before joining.
Partner link: PolishMyTrack may receive a referral reward if you sign up through this link. You are free to use any distributor; this does not change your master or your use of PolishMyTrack.
Before submit
The two-minute final check
Uploads are easier to correct before they leave your hands.
- ✓The lossless master opens and plays to the end
- ✓Artist, titles and track order are final
- ✓Credits, explicit status and rights are accurate
- ✓Artwork is square, clear and licensed
- ✓Release date leaves enough processing time
- ✓You kept local copies of every final asset
After delivery
Keep your launch simple.
Save the distributor confirmation, claim or check your artist profiles, and verify the release when it goes live. Share one reliable landing link rather than a different store link in every post. If something is wrong, use the distributor's correction flow before replacing the whole release.