Mastering Music Release Preparation
You've finished your track. The mix is perfect, the master is done, and you're ready to share your music with the world. But wait – are you really prepared for release?
Proper release preparation can make the difference between a successful launch and a chaotic mess. Here's your complete guide.
The Release Checklist
Audio Files
Before anything else, make sure your audio is ready:
- [ ] Master file – High-quality WAV (16-bit or 24-bit, 44.1kHz)
- [ ] Alternate versions – Instrumental, clean version if needed
- [ ] Stems – For potential sync licensing
- [ ] Quality check – No clipping, proper loudness (around -14 LUFS for streaming)
Metadata
This is where most releases go wrong. Get your metadata right:
Essential metadata:
- Track title (exactly as you want it displayed)
- Artist name(s)
- Featured artists (if any)
- Songwriter credits (all writers!)
- Producer credits
- Genre and sub-genre
- Language
- Release date
Identifiers:
- ISRC code (get from your distributor)
- UPC/EAN (for album releases)
- Writer IPI numbers
Artwork
Your cover art is your first impression:
- Dimensions: Minimum 3000x3000 pixels
- Format: JPG or PNG, RGB color mode
- Content: No logos, URLs, or third-party trademarks
- Quality: Sharp, professional-looking
Distribution Setup
Choose and set up your distributor:
- Select your distributor – DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby, etc.
- Create your release – Upload files and metadata
- Set release date – At least 3-4 weeks out for playlist consideration
- Verify all stores – Check your selections carefully
Timeline for Release
4-6 Weeks Before
- Finalize master
- Complete all metadata
- Create artwork
- Set up pre-save/pre-add campaigns
3-4 Weeks Before
- Submit to distributor
- Pitch to playlist curators
- Begin social media teasing
2 Weeks Before
- Confirm all stores have received the release
- Send to press/blogs
- Create content for release day
Release Week
- Final social push
- Engage with listeners
- Share to all platforms
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Rushing the Timeline
Distributors need time. Streaming platforms need time. Don't upload and expect your track live the next day.
Incomplete Credits
Every writer and producer should be credited. Missing credits means missing royalties – potentially forever.
Poor Metadata Quality
Typos, wrong genres, missing information. These mistakes follow your release forever and are hard to correct.
Ignoring Pre-Release Marketing
The algorithm rewards early engagement. Build buzz before release, not just after.
How Vandall Helps
Vandall makes release preparation easier:
- Organized files – All versions in one place
- Metadata management – Track credits and splits automatically
- Share links – Send to press and collaborators securely
- Version history – Never lose a revision
Try Vandall free and make your next release seamless.
Have questions about release preparation? Reach out at hello@vandall.com