Creating a Music Video Release

This comprehensive guide walks you through each step to create and submit a music video for distribution using the Music Distribution Platform.

Step 1: Choose Your Submission Type

Start your journey by selecting the type of release you want to create. For this guide, we will focus on creating a Music Video.

Submission Type Options:

  1. Single: Submit one audio track for distribution.
  2. Album: Combine multiple audio tracks into a cohesive release.
  3. Music Video: Submit a single music video for distribution.

Instructions:

  • Navigate to the submission page and select Music Video.

Step 2: Enter Your Music Video's Details

Provide essential information about your video. These details define your release and help it stand out.

Required Fields:

  1. Song Title
    Enter the official title of your music video. Ensure it matches the name of the track.

  2. Artist Name
    Provide the name of the performing artist or band.

  3. Genre
    Choose the genre that best represents your music. Examples include Pop, Rock, Hip-Hop, etc.

  4. Sub-Genre
    Specify a sub-genre for better categorization, e.g., Acoustic, Indie, or R&B.

  5. Label (Optional)
    Enter your label's name if you are signed. Independent artists can leave this blank.

  6. Upload Video File
    Upload your video in a high-quality format. Ensure it meets the platform's technical specifications:

    • Resolution:
      • HD: 1920x1080 or 1280x720
      • 4K: 3840x2160 or 4096x2160
    • Supported Codecs:
      • MPG: MJPEG, MPEG 1 Video, MPEG 2 Video
      • M4V: MPEG4, H264, MP4, HEVC
      • MOV: SVQ1, SVQ3, DV video, Apple ProRes
    • Video Codec: H264 or Apple ProRes 422
    • Frame Rate: 23.976 up to 29.970
    • Bitrate: At least 15 Mbps

  7. Upload Artwork
    Add the cover art for your single. Ensure:

    • The image adheres to platform guidelines (e.g., no blurry or offensive content).
    • Format: JPG or PNG (RGB)
    • Dimensions:
      • Minimum: 1440x1440 pixels
      • Recommended: 3000x3000 pixels
      • Maximum: 3000x3000 pixels

Step 3: Add Metadata to Your Music Video

Metadata ensures your music video is accurately categorized and discoverable on streaming platforms.

Key Metadata Fields:

  1. Version
    Assign a version number, starting with 1.0 for new releases.

  2. Song Language
    Specify the primary language of your track.

  3. Lyrics Language
    If different from the song language, indicate the language of the lyrics.

  4. Release Date
    Set the date your music video will be available on DSPs. Choose at least two weeks ahead to ensure approval.

  5. Contributors
    Provide details about key contributors:

    • Publishers: The individual managing the production.
    • Lyricist: The writer of the lyrics (if applicable).
    • Composer: The individual responsible for the musical composition.

  6. Parental Advisory
    Choose from the following options:

    • Explicit: If your video contains offensive language or themes.
    • Clean: If it is suitable for all audiences.

Step 4: Select Your Digital Service Providers (DSPs)

Choose the platforms where your music video will be distributed.

Popular DSPs:

  • Amazon
  • VEVO
  • Facebook

Tip: Select as many platforms as possible to maximize your reach.

Step 5: Verify Your Information

This step involves entering personal and payment details for royalty disbursement.

Personal Information:

  1. Name
    Provide your full legal name.

  2. Email Address
    Enter a valid email for communication and royalty notifications.

  3. Address
    Include your complete address for official documentation.

  4. Payment Details
    Specify the email for receiving payments (e.g., PayPal).

Special Instructions for VEVO and Facebook Video

Uploading to VEVO (For Aggregation Clients Only)

Contrary to other DSPs, VEVO requires manual uploads.

  1. Fill out the VEVO upload form at least 10 days prior to release.
    For new channels, submit the form at least two weeks prior to the release date.
  2. Follow the video specifications outlined above.

For additional details, refer to the VEVO specifications overview provided by your distribution platform.

Artist Mapping for Facebook Video (For Aggregation Clients Only)

To ensure accurate mapping of your videos to the correct artist page:

  1. Download the "Artist Pages" template.
  2. Add the details of Facebook pages for each artist.
  3. Save the template in this format:
    ORGANIZATION_NAME_Facebook_Artist_Pages_SubmissionDate
  4. Upload the template to the form.
  5. Notify artists to opt-in for PMVs on their Facebook artist page.

For more details, refer to Facebook's guide on publishing Premium Music Videos.

Final Submission

After completing all sections:

  1. Review your inputs for accuracy.
  2. Click Submit to send your music video for review.
  3. Wait for confirmation of your video's live status on DSPs.

Pro Tips for a Successful Release:

  • High-Quality Video: Follow the technical specifications to avoid processing delays.
  • Accurate Metadata: Double-check all fields to ensure accuracy.
  • Early Submission: Submit at least two weeks before the desired release date.
  • Promotion: Plan a marketing strategy to promote your music video.

Good luck with your release! 🎥

2024
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