Last-Minute Changes You SHOULD NOT Make to Your Releases for Distribution: DSP Guidelines Explained

When you’re gearing up to drop your next big release, last-minute changes might seem harmless. But did you know that Digital Streaming Platforms (DSPs) have strict guidelines that can block or delay your music? At Madverse Music, we’re here to help you navigate these rules.

This guide breaks down what last-minute changes are off-limits and how you can stay compliant to ensure a smooth distribution process.

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What Are Last-Minute Changes?

Last-minute changes refer to tweaks or edits made after your track is already submitted to your music distribution service for processing. Last minute changes lead to redelivery of the track which takes time to show up on DSPs causing metadata mismatch across platforms and rejections in some cases. Common areas where artists attempt changes include:

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1. Artwork adjustments 
2. Track title updates
3. Metadata corrections
4. Adding or removing collaborators
5. Release dates
   
   

However, many of these updates should not be done once your release is in the pipeline for DSPs like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music. 

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What Last-Minute Changes Are Not Advisable?

Here’s a breakdown of DSP guidelines for some common last-minute changes:

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1. Artwork Adjustments

DSPs have stringent artwork compliance standards. Once your artwork is submitted, you shouldn't:

1. Add or remove artist names
2. Update the release title
3. Change the label name
   

Tip: Always double-check your artwork meets DSP standards before submitting.

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2. Metadata Corrections

Metadata includes crucial details like artist names, release titles, and genres. After submission, DSPs lock this data to ensure consistency across platforms. Last-minute changes can cause distribution delays or rejection.

Pro Tip: Use a checklist to verify all metadata is accurate during submission.

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3. Track List Modifications

Adding, removing, or rearranging tracks in your release isn’t allowed after submission. This disrupts the cataloging process and can confuse DSP algorithms.

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4. Release Date Adjustments

Switching up your release date after submission is risky. DSPs schedule releases in advance, and sudden changes can result in missed launch timelines.

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Why Are These Guidelines in Place?

DSPs aim to maintain consistency and fairness for all artists. By sticking to strict rules:

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1. DSPs ensure accurate representation of music across platforms
2. Metadata errors are minimized
3. Release scheduling runs smoothly without manual interventions
   
   
   

How to Avoid Last-Minute Changes?

To prevent distribution hiccups, follow these steps:

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1. Plan Ahead: Submit your music 4-6 weeks in advance to allow time for reviews and corrections (or as suggested by your distributor)
2. Artwork Compliance Checklist: Ensure your artwork includes:

• Artist name(s)
• Release title
• Record label (if applicable)
  Please note: All the data should on your artwork should accurately align with your metadata.
  

3. Metadata Accuracy: Triple-check your metadata, ensuring all names and details match the release
4. Collaborator Confirmation: Finalize all credits and splits with your collaborators before submission
5. Set Your Release Date Wisely: Avoid choosing dates that might need last-minute adjustments
   
   

We’ve put together a handy checklist to help ensure your release is perfectly prepped and ready to go live on time.

Ready to distribute your music with confidence? Sign up with Madverse today and join the growing community of independent artists smashing the charts!