Release Your Music Like a Pro: The Indie Artist’s Ultimate Checklist
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Releasing your first track as an independent artist is exciting — but without a proper strategy, it can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why we at Viva Music have put together this step-by-step checklist to help you plan, launch, and promote your release like a pro.
Whether you’re dropping a single, an EP, or a full album, this guide will help you stay on track with every major milestone — from uploading your music to building buzz and keeping the momentum going post-launch.
1. Pre-Release Planning
This is where the foundation is laid. A well-planned release gives your music the chance it deserves to reach the right ears.
✔ Final master of the track
Make sure your final mix is professionally mastered and ready to go.
✔ Cover art (3000x3000 JPG)
Design a standout cover that matches your artist identity and meets DSP (digital streaming platform) specs.
✔ Metadata checklist
Track name, artist name, ISRC code, genre, mood, collaborators — every detail matters.
✔ Distribution platform setup
Platforms like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby help you deliver your music to Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Anghami, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and more.
✔ Upload in advance (3–4 weeks)
This gives you time to pitch to DSP editors, submit to blogs, and plan your rollout content.
✔ Create a pre-save link
Use tools like Hypeddit, Feature.fm, Show.co, etc. to build hype before launch day.
✔ Register your song with copyright and royalty collection societies
To protect your rights and ensure you’re paid for every stream, performance, or sync, register your song with the appropriate performing rights organizations (PROs) and copyright bodies.
2. Content & Visuals
In the streaming era, how your music looks matters almost as much as how it sounds. Build a strong visual identity that tells your story.
✔ Moodboard & visual theme
Establish a visual tone for your campaign using platforms like Pinterest or Canva.
✔ Artist photoshoot
Capture press-ready images in different formats: vertical, square, and landscape.
✔ Lyric snippets or animated teasers
Use motion graphics, Reels, or stories to tease the mood of your song.
✔ Cover art reveal post
Announce your track with a short caption and bold visual reveal.
✔ Short-form video content
Behind-the-scenes shots, track previews, countdowns — anything that invites people into your world.
3. Press & Outreach
Don’t wait for people to discover your track — send it directly to them.
✔ Write a press release
Keep it short and engaging: who you are, what the track is about, and why it matters.
✔ Build a pitch list
Research blogs, curators, playlists, and influencers who align with your genre and vibe.
✔ Send pitch emails
Reach out 1–2 weeks before launch. Make it easy: include links, EPK, and streaming previews.
✔ Upload an EPK (Electronic Press Kit)
Host your assets (bio, photos, music links) in one place — Dropbox, Google Drive, or your own Linktree.
4. Social Media Launch Plan
Don’t just post once and disappear — create a journey for your followers leading up to and after your release.
✔ 7-day countdown
Remind followers your track is coming — build excitement with mini clips or teasers.
✔ Release day Reel
Use the hook or the chorus — something catchy and short to grab attention.
✔ Instagram Story Q&A
Host an “Ask Me Anything” to engage fans and build a deeper connection.
✔ Thank you post
Celebrate the release and invite people to share and save the song.
✔ Update all bio links
Make sure every platform points to your new release link or smart link.
5. Post-Release Momentum
Release day isn’t the finish line — it’s where the real journey begins. Keep your track alive with consistent engagement and smart follow-ups.
✔ Repost fan comments and tags
Share comments, tags, and reactions to build trust and social proof.
✔ Submit to algorithmic playlists
Use tools like Spotify for Artists or Apple Music for Artists to tap into personalized playlists and editorial visibility.
✔ Share behind-the-scenes follow-ups
Post acoustic takes, alternate versions, or BTS clips to extend the story.
✔ Email your list
Even a small list can drive repeat listens — update them with your progress or thank them directly.
✔ Track your data
Use Spotify for Artists, Apple Music for Artists, YouTube Studio, Instagram Insights, and platforms like Chartmetric or Soundcharts to understand what's resonating and where.
Bonus: Free Downloadable Checklist
Want to keep this handy as you plan your release?
Download the Viva Music Independent Artist Release Checklist (PDF)
About Viva Music
Viva Music is a Music Marketing and PR consultancy empowering artists, labels, and managers to sharpen their strategy and amplify their brand.
Whether you’re dropping your debut single or curating your next live show, we’re here to help you create momentum — the kind that moves fans, platforms, and industry alike.
Want help with your next release campaign or artist strategy?
Drop us a line— we’d love to hear your story.
