Help & Reference
This section contains reference materials, background information, and troubleshooting guides to help you understand music distribution better. For an overview of what the LabelGrid platform offers, visit our main site.
Understanding the industry
Section titled “Understanding the industry”How streaming works
Section titled “How streaming works”Learn the basics of music streaming:
- How Music Streaming Works - What happens when someone plays your song
- Revenue models and payout calculations
- Platform differences
Codes and identifiers
Section titled “Codes and identifiers”Essential codes for music distribution:
- ISRC and UPC Explained - Track and release identifiers
- How LabelGrid assigns codes automatically
- When and why to use your own codes
Troubleshooting
Section titled “Troubleshooting”Common issues
Section titled “Common issues”| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Release not showing on stores | Check delivery status, allow 2-5 days for processing |
| Wrong artist profile linked | Update artist profile with correct Spotify/Apple IDs |
| Artwork rejected | Verify 3000x3000px, no URLs, no pricing, no social handles |
| Audio quality error | Re-export at 16-bit/44.1kHz WAV minimum |
Delivery problems
Section titled “Delivery problems”- Release shows “Delivered” but not live
- Some stores missing from delivery
- Changes not updating on platforms
Account issues
Section titled “Account issues”- Login problems
- Verification requirements
- Payment setup
Reference materials
Section titled “Reference materials”Metadata guidelines
Section titled “Metadata guidelines”- Field requirements and limits
- Character restrictions
- Naming conventions
Audio specifications
Section titled “Audio specifications”| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Format | WAV, AIFF, or FLAC |
| Bit depth | 16-bit minimum, 24-bit or 32-bit recommended |
| Sample rate | 44.1 kHz minimum |
| Channels | Stereo (2 channels) |
Artwork specifications
Section titled “Artwork specifications”| Specification | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 3000 x 3000 pixels |
| Format | JPG or PNG |
| Color mode | RGB |
| Resolution | 72 DPI minimum |
Glossary
Section titled “Glossary”Common terms you’ll encounter in music distribution. For a complete list of definitions, see our full glossary.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| DSP | Digital Service Provider (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.) |
| ISRC | International Standard Recording Code - unique track identifier |
| UPC | Universal Product Code - unique release/album identifier |
| PRO | Performance Rights Organization (ASCAP, BMI, SESAC, PRS) |
| LUFS | Loudness Units Full Scale - measurement of perceived loudness |
| Mechanical royalties | Royalties from reproduction of music (streams, downloads) |
| Performance royalties | Royalties from public performance (radio, live venues) |
Contact support
Section titled “Contact support”Can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact our support team for help.
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