What Does “In Review” Mean in the Music Industry?

November 23, 2024 All About Music
in review meaning

If you are an artist or work in the music industry, you’ve probably seen the term “in review.” Whether it’s your song release, music video, or artist profile verification, this phrase can pop up during many steps in your journey. It often leaves artists wondering: (in review meaning)

  • What does “in review” really mean?
  • Is this good or bad?
  • What should I do while waiting?

In simple terms, “in review” means someone is looking at your submission and deciding if it meets certain standards or requirements. It’s like your teacher grading your homework, but in the music world, it could be about your tracks, artwork, or even your entire album.

Let’s dive deeper into what this term means specifically for musicians and what you can do when you see this status.

What Does “In Review” Mean in Music Distribution?

When you distribute your music through a platform like Deliver My Tune or any other music aggregator, you’ll often see the term “in review.” This happens when you upload your song, album, or artwork. During this time, the platform checks if your submission follows the rules of major streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube Music.

  • What Are They Reviewing?
    • Your Audio Files: They check if the song quality is high (no distortion, background noise, etc.).
    • Metadata: This includes details like song title, artist name, genre, and release date. They make sure there are no typos or errors.
    • Artwork: Platforms like Spotify have strict rules for cover art. It should be clear, high-quality, and free of extra text or logos.
  • Why Does This Matter?
    These checks are important because platforms want to ensure a good experience for listeners. High-quality submissions mean fewer problems later.

How Long Does “In Review” Take for Music Distribution?

The review process varies depending on the platform and the number of submissions they’re handling.

  • Singles or Albums: Typically takes 2–5 business days.
  • Artist Profile Verifications (like Spotify or Apple Music): This could take 1–2 weeks.
  • Special Requests (like YouTube Official Artist Channels): Up to 4 weeks.

If your music is still “in review” after the expected time, it’s okay to follow up with the platform. Sometimes delays happen due to high demand or small errors in your submission.

What Can Go Wrong During the Review Process?

While “in review” often leads to approval, there are times when your submission might be flagged or rejected. Here’s what could happen:

  1. Audio Issues:
    • Low-quality files (e.g., MP3s with low bitrate).
    • Distorted or clipped audio.
    • Tracks with background noise or unfinished mixes.
  2. Metadata Problems:
    • Song titles in ALL CAPS or with unnecessary symbols.
    • Incorrect spellings of artist names.
    • Missing details like release dates or genres.
  3. Artwork Rejections:
    • Blurry or pixelated images.
    • Artwork with too much text.
    • Using copyrighted images without permission.
  4. Copyright Violations:
    • Using someone else’s music, beats, or samples without proper licenses.
    • Submitting a cover song without crediting the original composer.

What Should You Do While Your Submission Is “In Review”?

It can be nerve-wracking to wait while your music is “in review.” But don’t worry—you can use this time wisely to prepare for the next steps. Here are a few ideas: (in review meaning)

1. Prepare for Your Release

  • Start planning your marketing campaign. Think about how you’ll announce your song or album on social media.
  • Create teasers, short videos, or behind-the-scenes content to excite your fans.

2. Check Your Profile

  • Ensure your profiles on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube are updated with the latest photos, bios, and links.
  • If you’re waiting for verification (like a blue tick), make sure all your artist details are accurate and complete.

3. Engage Your Fans

  • Share updates with your followers. Let them know your music is in the final stages of approval.
  • Build excitement by asking fans to guess the release date or name of your next track.

Real-Life Examples of “In Review” in Music

Example 1: A New Single Release

You’ve uploaded a new single to your distributor, and the status changes to “in review.” This means they’re checking your audio file, metadata, and artwork. (in review meaning)If everything is good, your song will be live on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music within a few days.

Example 2: Spotify Artist Profile Verification

You applied to get your Spotify Artist Profile verified. The “in review” status shows they’re checking if your profile is legitimate and matches Spotify’s requirements. Once approved, you’ll get the blue checkmark.

Example 3: YouTube Official Artist Channel

You requested YouTube to merge your topic channel with your main artist channel. (in review meaning)While it’s “in review,” they’re ensuring that your channels meet the eligibility criteria.

How to Avoid Delays in the Review Process

  1. Submit High-Quality Files:
    Use lossless audio formats like WAV or FLAC. Make sure your artwork is at least 3000 x 3000 pixels and follows platform guidelines.
  2. Double-Check Metadata:
    Review all details like song titles, artist names, and credits. Keep everything accurate and error-free.
  3. Clear Copyrights:
    If you’re using samples or cover songs, provide proper documentation. Mention composers, lyricists, and producers where necessary.
  4. Communicate with Your Distributor:
    If you’re unsure about something, reach out to your distributor. Platforms like Deliver My Tune offer guidance and real-time support to help you through the process.

FAQs About “In Review” for Musicians

1. Can I Speed Up the Review Process?

Most platforms have a fixed timeline, but you can avoid delays by submitting everything correctly the first time. For urgent releases, some distributors offer priority services. (in review meaning)

2. Will I Be Notified After the Review?

Yes, you’ll usually get an email or notification once the review is complete. If it’s approved, your song will be scheduled for release. If there are issues, you’ll receive feedback to fix them.

3. What Happens If My Submission Is Rejected?

Don’t panic! Platforms will tell you why it was rejected. Fix the issues and resubmit. Common fixes include correcting metadata, improving audio quality, or providing new artwork.

Why Is “In Review” Important for Artists?

The “in review” stage ensures that only high-quality, authentic content makes it to streaming platforms. It protects your reputation as an artist and helps listeners trust the platforms they use. While it might feel like a delay, it’s actually a necessary step to ensure your music shines.

Conclusion: The Final Note on “In Review”

The phrase “in review” in the music industry might sound formal, but it’s a natural part of the process. It’s like a safety check for your music before it reaches the world. While waiting can be tough, remember that it’s a sign of progress.

Use this time to prepare, stay positive, and keep creating. Whether it’s your next single, album, or artist profile, each “in review” moment brings you closer to your goals. Trust the process, and let your music do the talking when it’s finally live!

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For additional resources on music marketing and distribution, visit Deliver My Tune.