# Create a Release

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### Summary

This guide provides detailed instructions on how to manage catalogs and create new releases within the Revelator platform. It covers the entire process from release creation, metadata entry, track management, distribution settings, and analytics. This documentation is designed for users who need to efficiently manage their music catalogs and ensure accurate metadata submission for digital distribution.

### Prerequisites

{% hint style="info" %}
Before you get started, make sure you have the following ready:
{% endhint %}

* Access to the Revelator platform with the necessary permissions.
* Audio files (WAV)
* Artwork files (JPG or PNG format, recommended dimensions).
* Full Metadata information

{% hint style="warning" %}
The recommended file size is 3000 by 3000 pixels or larger. Images must be square (1:1 aspect ratio).
{% endhint %}

* ISRC and ISWC codes if applicable.
* Composer, producer, and rights holder information.

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## Steps to creating a release

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Creating a New Release

* Navigate to the Catalog Management dashboard.
* Click on the **Create Release** button.
* Enter the **Release Title**, [**Subtitle**](#user-content-fn-1)[^1] (if applicable), and **Artist Name**
* Select the **Release Date** using the calendar widget
* Choose the **Genre** and **Subgenre** from the dropdown menus
* You can also use the preview start/end time
* *Note: UPC, EAN and JAN are the barcode standards controlled by the US, the EU and Japan, respectively, that would be printed on any physical version of a release. This code is used to identify album sales across all platforms.*
* Click **Save** to proceed to the next step.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Adding and Managing Tracks

* Click on **Add Track** to open the track details form
* Fill in the **Track Title** according to the guidelines
* Upload the **Audio File** by selecting the file from your computer.
* Enter the **ISRC Code** and **Language**.
* Fill out the **Composer**, **Lyricist**, and **Producer** fields.
* Click **Save Track** to add it to the release.
* Repeat for additional tracks as needed.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Uploading Artwork

* Click the **Upload Artwork** button.
* Select the image file from your device (recommended size and format will be displayed).
* Preview the uploaded artwork according to the guidelines
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Reviewing and Submitting the Release

* Check the **Release Summary** to ensure all details are correct.
* Resolve any errors or warnings that may appear.
* Click **Submit for Review** to finalize the release or **Save Draft** to continue editing later.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Distributing a Release

* Choose distribution platforms from the list (e.g., Spotify, Apple Music).
* Toggle the **Enable/Disable** switch for each platform.
* Select **Territories** for distribution or opt for **Global**.
* Set the **Release Date** and **Pre-Release** options.
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

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## Expected Outcomes

* Successful submission will display a confirmation message and the release status will update to **Submitted**.<br>
* Any missing information will trigger warnings, which must be addressed before submission.

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## Frequently Asked Questions

<details>

<summary><strong>Why won’t my audio file upload?</strong></summary>

Make sure your file is in WAV format and meets the quality requirements. If the upload fails, try re-uploading after confirming the file type and size.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>How do I fix a metadata validation error?</strong></summary>

Check that all required fields are complete and correctly formatted. Missing ISRC codes, contributor roles, or release dates are common causes of validation errors.

</details>

<details>

<summary><strong>Why is my release stuck in “Pending” status?</strong></summary>

Ensure all mandatory metadata, audio files, and artwork have been submitted. Resolve any outstanding warnings or errors, then re-submit the release for review.

</details>

### Additional Resources

* Revelator Knowledge Base
* Music Rights and Distribution Guidelines
* [ISRC Code Guidelines](https://www.usisrc.org/)

[^1]: