What To Do Before Releasing a Song: 10-Step Pre-Release Checklist

Pre-release preparation determines how much momentum your release builds. Artists who prepare thoroughly in the week before launch outperform artists who wing it with last-minute posts — even with identical music. This checklist ensures nothing important gets missed.

1. Confirm your release is delivered to distributors

Verify with your distributor (DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby) that your release is confirmed for your target release date. Get confirmation that your streaming URLs will be live 24-48 hours before your public release date — you will need them to finalize your smart link. Confirm your ISRC and UPC are assigned. Check that your metadata (artist name, track title, genre, credits) is correct before delivery.

2. Create and test your smart link

Create your Lynkify smart link as soon as streaming URLs are available. Add every platform link. Test every button on mobile and desktop. Verify the artwork displays correctly. Enable fan capture with a specific offer. If you have a custom domain, confirm the link is serving from the correct URL.

3. Pitch to Spotify editorial

Submit your release for Spotify editorial playlist consideration through Spotify for Artists. You must do this before your release date — pitching after is not possible for editorial consideration. Fill in every field: mood, style, instrumentation, listener story, and release notes. This window is narrow and easy to miss if you do not plan for it.

4. Write your email announcement

Draft your release announcement email to your fan list. Keep it personal and specific — why this song, what it means, what you want them to do (stream on their platform, share with one friend, join your list if they are not already on it). Include your smart link prominently. Schedule the email to send at release day morning.

5. Prepare 10+ pieces of social content

Create all your release week social content in advance. A minimum of 10 pieces: announcement graphic, lyric reveal, music video clip, behind-the-scenes clip, studio session clip, fan testimonials if available, story polls, countdown posts, and any paid ad creative. Batch-create and schedule them in Buffer or Later so release week executes automatically.