What an independent release involves

You can release music without a record label when you control, or have permission to use, the sound recording, composition, featured performances, samples, artwork, and name or likeness materials. A distributor does not replace those permissions; it delivers your information to eligible services and reports the revenue they make available.

ORB takes 0% royalty commission, so artists keep 100% of royalties reported to ORB. ORB reviews submitted releases for approval within 48 hours, but Spotify, Apple Music, TikTok, Boomplay, and other stores control their own processing and final availability dates. Submit ahead of your campaign rather than promising a precise store launch time.

The independent release workflow

Work through these steps before announcing a release date.

1. Finish and check the master

   Use the final lossless audio export, check the beginning and end, and confirm that every collaborator approved the version you intend to distribute.

2. Clear rights and credits

   Document writers, producers, featured artists, samples, cover-song licences, and ownership splits. Never submit someone else's recording or artwork as your own.

3. Prepare artwork and metadata

   Use compliant square artwork and consistent artist names, title, version, genre, language, lyrics and participant credits. An ISRC or UPC can help identify an existing recording or release.

4. Choose a date and stores

   Leave time for ORB review, corrections, and store processing. Select the eligible services and territories that fit your audience and rights.

5. Submit through ORB

   Create your release, upload files, confirm the rights declarations, and submit. ORB reviews for approval within 48 hours before delivery to stores.

6. Launch and monitor

   Share the release link, publish approved campaign assets, watch delivery status and analytics, and keep evidence of licences and final metadata.

Independent release checklist

Use this list before pressing submit:

• Final WAV or FLAC master is backed up and matches the title and version.
• Every songwriter, producer, featured performer, sample and cover use is documented.
• Artwork is original or licensed and meets store requirements.
• Artist names, explicit labels, credits, lyrics and release date are accurate.
• A release link, pre-save plan, social schedule and budget are ready.
• The campaign date allows for ORB review and store-controlled delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I release music without a record label?

Yes. An independent artist can use ORB to deliver eligible music to stores without signing a label, provided the artist controls the required recording, composition, artwork and participant rights.

How long does an independent release take?

ORB reviews submitted releases for approval within 48 hours. Each store then controls its own processing and availability timeline, so submit well before your planned launch.

Does ORB take a percentage of royalties?

No. ORB takes 0% royalty commission and artists keep 100% of royalties reported to ORB. Plan, credit, store and withdrawal rules still apply.

What files do I need to release a song?

You need a final accepted audio master, compliant square artwork, accurate release metadata, participant credits and evidence of the rights or licences behind the recording and materials.

Should I release a single, EP or album first?

Choose based on your finished material, audience strategy and budget. A single can introduce a project, while an EP or album needs stronger sequencing, metadata and campaign planning.