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Understanding Minimum Release Dates

Your minimum release date is the earliest day your music can go live. All release times are calculated in UTC.

Updated over 3 weeks ago

When scheduling a new music release, you can’t just pick any date.

Your minimum release date is the earliest possible date your music can go live on streaming platforms and digital stores.


Why Do Minimum Release Dates Exist?

Music distribution isn’t instant! Behind the scenes:

  • Processing time – we review, encode, and prepare your files for delivery

  • Platform delivery – we send your release to stores (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.)

  • Platform processing – each store needs time to process and approve your release

  • Quality checks – we make sure everything meets industry standards before it goes live


How is Your Minimum Release Date Calculated?

Your plan determines how soon you can release:

  • Free Plans → Minimum 10 days notice

  • Paid Plans → Minimum 48 hours notice


Timezone Reminder (All Times are UTC ⏰)

Release dates are always calculated in UTC (Coordinated Universal Time).

👉 Example: If you submit a release on Wednesday at 23:41 in Toronto (EST/EDT), that’s already Thursday in UTC. Your release will go live Thursday, not Wednesday.

What You’ll See When Selecting a Release Date

  • Grayed-out dates → Too soon for your plan

  • Available dates → Dates we can deliver on time

  • Error message → If you pick a date that’s too early, you’ll see:

    Delivery date not possible due to selected plan. Earliest release date is April 8th, 2025.

Example Scenario

Today is March 25th, 2025. Your plan requires 10 days advance notice:

  • ❌ March 30th → Too soon (only 5 days notice)

  • ❌ April 3rd → Still too soon (9 days notice)

  • ✅ April 4th → Perfect! (10+ days notice)


Tips for Success

Plan Ahead

  • Mark your calendar with your minimum release date

  • Watch for holidays (they can slow processing)

  • Consider Fridays – the industry’s most popular release day

Need to Release Sooner?

  • Upgrade your plan for shorter minimums

  • Contact support for rare rush requests (fees may apply)

Best Practices

  • Submit early (2+ weeks is ideal, even if your plan allows less)

  • Double-check artwork, metadata, and release details

  • Use the extra time to promote and build hype


Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I change my release date after submitting?

Yes. You can always push to a later date. Moving to an earlier date depends on whether it still meets your minimum requirement and your plan allows it.

You can make changes by contacting our support team.

Q: Why can’t I release my music today?

Distribution involves multiple platforms worldwide. The minimum timeframe ensures your music appears correctly everywhere on your chosen date.

Q: Do all streaming services have the same requirements?

No. Different stores process at different speeds. We use the shortest timeframe so your music may not be available on every store on the same date if you choose for example 48-hour delivery.

Q: What happens if I miss my release date?

Don’t worry. Your music will go live as soon as possible after your scheduled date. We’ll keep you updated on any delays.

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