When your music is ready to be released, there are a few elements that need to be completed, from your releases metadata to your album, single or EPs artwork.
Now, with each platform, whether that be for digital or for a physical release, there are different rules and regulations that your artwork needs to abide by.
We’ve put together an outline of what these rules are to help you seamlessly put your release together.
If you would like immediate support or advice on distributing your tracks, get in touch with one of the team on 0116 253 0203 or email us at alr@horusmusic.co.uk
What is album artwork?
Album artwork is a visual representation of your music. It’s the artwork that will be physically seen by your audience, and help your music stand out from the crowd and grab new listeners’ attention.
Not only this, your album artwork can be used in promotional material for your release. So, it’s imperative that the artwork is both what you would like it to be and follows the rules of online stores.
With this in mind, it’s important to keep a few things in mind while selecting your artwork.
Is the artwork representative of the music?
You don’t want to unintentionally mislead your fans. Artwork that misrepresents your music not only annoys fans but can land you in hot water with other artists or brands.
For example, using the names of brands, other celebrities, or even trademarked logos without permission is bad practice and can result in your release being removed from the stores without notice.
Ensure that it includes all the correct information.
Each DSP (Digital Streaming Platform) insists that if your artwork contains text that it at least has the title of your release and the name of the artist.
Your released artwork shouldn’t feature any DSP logos or anything about other releases; if you do include this, it could confuse listeners. So ensure that you keep the content of your artwork related to the release.
Clearly mark if your release contains explicit language.
If your release contains explicit language or themes, you need to clearly mark this in your artwork. You can do this by adding the ‘parental advisory’ logo (pictured below) in the right-hand corner of your artwork.
Make sure your artwork is the correct size.
All digital stores require artwork to be a square jpeg file at 3000×3000 pixels with a resolution of 300dpi and in RGB Colour model.
If your artwork doesn’t follow the DSPp guidelines, it can delay the release of your music and could lead to your release being rejected in the distribution process.
Does it look good?
And lastly, does your artwork look good? Remember that your artwork should be eye catching to potential and existing listeners.
This means checking that your artwork doesn’t look squashed or distorted (unless that is the intention but it should be clearly marked). If your artwork is pixelated or squashed, it can make the piece look amateur.
If your artwork isn’t up to scratch, it can be rejected in the distribution process.
Spotify Canvas & Apple Music Motion Artwork
DSPs such as Spotify and Apple Music Motion Artwork have expanded album artworks to offer artists the chance to further enhance the streaming experience with motion graphics. These include short (six to eight seconds long) clips that are looped, although its worth remembering that the clips aren’t synced to a particular track.
To create your Spotify canvas or Apple Music Motion Artwork, you can utilise our partnership with Rotor and create stunning video content with ease.
How It Works
Getting started takes only moments., you can:
- Upload your audio track.
- Choose a visual style that suits your genre.
- Browse hundreds of licensed clips and overlays.
- Add animated text that syncs with your music.
- Preview your creation and tweak fonts or pacing.
- Export a high-definition video file ready for sharing.
The entire process runs in your browser. AI-driven features handle clip timing. You focus on creative decisions instead of wrestling with complex software.
Horus Music clients can claim a 10% off Rotor services through this link.
Distribute your music with Horus Music.
Distribute your next release with Horus Music! From only £20 per year for unlimited release, the world stage isn’t far away!
Get started here or contact our team at alr@horusmusic.co.uk or drop us a call on 0116 253 0203.