Foundation
a release passport identifying the approved master and final artwork
Practical guide by MOTA Media Group
Music release checklist: files, metadata, rights, and delivery
A release is ready when the final master, artwork, metadata, supporting documents, and access are assembled into one approved package—not when a desired date is announced. Current requirements and lead times must be checked with the selected distributor and platforms.
Who this is for
For artists, managers, labels, producers, and release coordinators preparing a single or collection for submission and the promotional activity around it.
How we work
Separate the final master from demos and drafts, maintain one metadata sheet, standardise names and credits, connect artwork and rights evidence to the release, assign the upload account and decision owners, and only align public promotion to a date once package readiness has been confirmed.
What you receive
The final configuration follows the approved brief, channels, source materials, schedule, and rights framework.
Production
one metadata sheet with consistent titles, participant names, credits, and required fields
Delivery
a linked package of project-specific agreements, confirmations, and open rights questions
Launch
a submission and archive record covering owners, status, confirmations, promotional files, and final links
Typical projects
Use these examples as a starting point. A producer will confirm the actual production route after reviewing the brief.
preparing a first single for submission through a selected distribution route
Scope, inputs, timeline, approvals, and usage rights are confirmed for the actual project.
checking that credits and names match across audio, artwork, metadata, and promotion
Scope, inputs, timeline, approvals, and usage rights are confirmed for the actual project.
recovering a release package after files, documents, and upload responsibility became fragmented
Scope, inputs, timeline, approvals, and usage rights are confirmed for the actual project.
Scope and limitations. The package does not guarantee acceptance or timing by a distributor or external platform. Requirements and lead times must be checked again before submission, and unresolved questions about the recording, composition, performers, imagery, or agreements require appropriate review. Promotion should not be tied to an unconfirmed date while the package remains incomplete.
Related pathways
Move from the current task to production, evidence, estimation, or project launch without losing context.
Music release checklist: files, metadata, rights, and delivery
Start by listening to the brief
Inputs
Prepare a demo, lyrics, tempo and a few annotated sound references. Mark what is approved and what may change: structure, arrangement, voice, instrumentation or duration. For a series, agree a consistent sound identity.
Working review
Before recording, check equipment, connections, quiet passages, headroom and performer comfort. Keep raw tracks separate from processed working versions. Review files should have clear names and dates.
Handoff
Check delivery against the agreed specification: master, alternate versions, stems and metadata. Confirm authors, performers and permitted uses before distribution. Preparing a project does not establish a confirmed release date.