Release planning is the process of preparing and scheduling all elements of your release before the public release date. It involves coordinating audio delivery, artwork, metadata, pitching, marketing, and distribution timing.
Why Planning Matters
A release that arrives on platforms without preparation misses opportunities: editorial pitching windows close, marketing cannot be coordinated, pre-save links cannot be shared, and errors discovered after release are harder to correct.
Recommended Timeline
While every release is different, here is a general timeline for preparation:
- 4–6 weeks before release: Finalize master audio and artwork
- 3–4 weeks before release: Submit complete metadata and assets for distribution
- 2–4 weeks before release: Editorial pitching window (platform-dependent)
- 1–2 weeks before release: Pre-save links, marketing preparation
- Release day: Music goes live across platforms
What Needs to Be Ready
- Final Audio Master: The finished, mastered audio file in the correct format
- Cover Artwork: Meeting all technical specifications (3000x3000px minimum, RGB, etc.)
- Complete Metadata: All artist, track, credit, and rights information
- Credits: Verified contributor information for all roles
- ISRC / UPC: Identification codes assigned or ready for assignment
What Happens Without Planning
- Missed editorial pitching deadlines
- Release appears on different platforms at different times
- Errors discovered after release require corrections (visible to listeners)
- No time for pre-release marketing or pre-save campaigns
- Rushed metadata leads to incorrect information on platforms
Our Role
We help coordinate your release timeline. When you submit through our system, we manage the preparation, review, and delivery schedule to ensure your release arrives on time and in the correct condition.
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