🎤 Top Mistakes First-Time Artists Make – And How to Avoid Them

Every artist starts somewhere. But when it comes to releasing music for the first time, there are some very common mistakes that can delay, damage, or even ruin your release.

At One Music Records, we’ve worked with thousands of debut artists—and we see the same problems again and again. This blog is your cheat sheet to make sure you don’t repeat them.

🚫 1. Uploading the Wrong or Unfinished Audio

❌ Mistake:

Uploading a demo version, blank file, or low-quality MP3 by accident.

✅ How to Avoid:

Double-check your final master. Make sure it’s loud, clear, and properly exported (WAV or high-quality MP3). Listen fully before uploading. If you’re unsure, ask your producer for a final version.

🖼️ 2. Using Generic or Stock Images as Cover Art

❌ Mistake:

Uploading cover art with stock images, poor editing, or without artist/song name.

✅ How to Avoid:

Make your cover art look like a professional poster. Use original photos/designs. Clearly mention the song name and artist name. Avoid using borders, emojis, logos, or anything blurry.

🧾 3. Filling Wrong or Incomplete Metadata

❌ Mistake:

Misspelling names, not mentioning lyricist/composer, or leaving fields blank.

✅ How to Avoid:

Fill out every section with full details:

• Singer name

• Lyricist’s real full name

• Composer/ProducerAlways mention real names (with surname) where asked, especially for lyricist & composer.

• 
  

🗓️ 4. Not Giving Enough Time for Approval & Release

❌ Mistake:

Expecting the song to go live in 1-2 days, or submitting last minute.

✅ How to Avoid:

Always upload your song at least 10–12 days before your planned release date. Approval and store processing take 5–7 working days (excluding Sundays & holidays).

🔁 5. Uploading the Same Song on Multiple Platforms Without Takedown

❌ Mistake:

Re-uploading the same track from another distributor without removing the old one.

✅ How to Avoid:

NEVER upload duplicate versions. Always get the old version removed first (ask your distributor to issue a takedown) before switching platforms or re-releasing.

🤖 6. Using AI-Generated or Copied Music/Vocals

❌ Mistake:

Using AI vocals or instrumentals without proper rights.

✅ How to Avoid:

Avoid using AI-generated content unless it’s 100% original and owned by you. Don’t use free AI beat/vocal generators unless you own commercial rights.

📱 7. Skipping Artist Profile Setup (Spotify, Apple, Instagram)

❌ Mistake:

Not claiming your Spotify/Apple artist profile or linking Instagram.

✅ How to Avoid:

Set up your Spotify for Artists, Apple Music for Artists, and send your Instagram profile for linking via One Music Dashboard.

🔎 8. Not Reading Guidelines or Ignoring Emails

❌ Mistake:

Missing out on important emails about rejections, corrections, or issues.

✅ How to Avoid:

Check your email regularly (including spam folder). Always read guidelines, blog posts, and notices. They’re written to help you avoid delays.

✅ Final Thoughts: Success Is in the Details

Your music might be great, but if you ignore the technical basics, it won’t reach people the way it should. First impressions matter—and your first release is your brand launch.

Want help before you upload?Chat with our team anytime on the One Music Dashboard. We’re here to help you succeed, from your first song to your hundredth.

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