Music Release Checklist
The complete artist release plan — every step from master delivery to post-release momentum. Check items off as you go; your progress is saved in your browser.
0 of 26 steps complete
Before Release
0/10The 3-4 weeks before release day decide how the day goes. Build the runway first.
Release Week
0/9Release week is about presence — show up everywhere your listeners already are.
After Release
0/7Most artists stop one week in. The weeks after release are where campaigns compound.
How to work a music release checklist
A music release checklist should cover the full arc, not just release day: pre-release (master delivery, distribution, artwork, profiles, pre-save, content prep), release week (announcement, short-form, playlist pitching, fan engagement), and post-release (reposts, additional clips, analysis, and the next campaign). This one is organized in exactly those three phases, and the interactive version above tracks your progress as you go.
When should you start? Earlier than feels necessary — about a month out for a single, longer for an EP or album. Prioritize the items with long lead times first: distribution submission, editorial pitching, and content batching are the tasks that can't be rushed, while announcements and reminders are quick. If you're starting late, cut the optional items, never the distribution deadline.
Why timing matters: most checklist items are cheap when done early and expensive when done late. A pre-save link built three weeks out compounds; one built two days out does nothing. The music release timeline turns this checklist into dated milestones, the 30-day music content calendar plans the posts, and the music release campaign generator combines checklist, timing, and content into one executable campaign plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start the checklist?
About a month before your release date. Most items in the 'Before Release' phase take weeks, not days — distribution especially should be submitted at least three weeks early so your date is guaranteed.
Does my progress save if I leave the page?
Yes — progress is saved in your browser automatically, no account needed. You can also save it to your Soundclip.io account to pick it up on any device.
Ready to turn this into a real campaign?
You make the music. Soundclip.io helps you build the audience — plan the release, create the content, and run the campaign from one place.
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