Launching your first song can be exciting, but also overwhelming. There are a lot of steps, a lot of tools and a lot of pressure to "get it right" from the start. That's why we've put together this checklist: a clear and orderly guide to help you not to leave anything important behind.
If you're about to release your first track (or just want to do better than last time), save this list.
1. Track finalised and mastered
- WAV file (44.1 kHz, 16 or 24 bit)
- Final title confirmed
- Clear credits (producer, collaborators, authors, etc.)
Don't deliver demos or half-baked versions. The first release sets your standard.
2. High quality cover
- Minimum size: 3000×3000 pixels
- JPG or PNG format
- No platform logos (Spotify, YouTube, etc.)
- Design aligned with your artistic identity
The cover is the first impression. Make sure it represents your sound and aesthetic well.
3. Additional material
- Updated biography
- Active social networks and recent content
- Links page (Linktree or similar)
- Presskit if there is a wider campaign (optional, but recommended)
When someone comes to your profile, they should quickly understand who you are and what you propose.
4. Launching at least 3 weeks in advance
- To qualify for editorial pitch and good positioning
- Complete and well-written metadata (genre, language, countries, etc.)
- Correctly linked artist profile
Avoid launching in a hurry. The urgent can ruin the important.
5. Pre- and post-release content calendar
- Reels, stories and pre-launch posts
- Teaser of the track or excerpts on TikTok and Shorts
- Narrative content: the story behind the subject, the title, the process
- Post-release material: behind-the-scenes, acoustic, lyric video, etc.
Publishing the song is not enough. Your visual and communicative narrative must also be active.
6. Distribution and monitoring plan
- Who will be in charge of the editorial pitch?
- What are the objectives of this launch (visibility, conversion, community...)?
- How will you measure the impact of the premiere?
It's not just about releasing a song. It's about making that song add to your overall project.
Conclusion
Pitching well is not a matter of luck, it's a matter of preparation. If you have clarity, a team behind you and a medium-term vision, your first release can be the real start of your career. Treat it for what it is: your calling card as an artist.
