Create a new release - Step 5: Cover upload

Learn how to upload a cover artwork, ensure it meets all technical and platform requirements, which design elements are mandatory, which are not allowed and how to avoid common rejection reasons.

In Step 5 you can upload the cover artwork you have created.

Please keep the requirements for the file in mind. Your file should look like this:

• JPEG format
• 3000 x 3000 pixel
• maximum of 8 MB file size
• should have the RGB color model
• artist and product title should be entered on the artwork. important is that the data matches with the data on the product info.
• the artwork should not be blurry
• the artwork should not include URLs or links to other pages (especially not to shops)
• the artwork should not include social media logos
• the artwork should not violate any copyrighted material (otherwise you can get sued which will be expensive)

Artworks are the first thing your fans will see. 

Therefore, it should be appealing to look at and optimized for smaller displays, such as many shops use on their front page!

The following guidelines have to be observed for all cover designs.

• Deliver the product's original cover art and do not use generic art templates or art that doesn’t match the album you’re delivering.

Texts and words should be displayed on the artwork:

• The main artists of the release should all be indicated on the cover

For exmaple you may not only name one main artist on the cover for a release with three different main artists. Either everyone should be named or no one. Otherwise your release will not get accepted.

These are things you should avoid:

• Your artwork should not be pixelated or distorted
• It should not be empty
• Please do not include shop URLs
• Avoid references to physical formats like CDs or vinyl, or to digital stores and retailers
• Do not use logos, brand names, or copyrighted content unless you have permission
• The artwork must not include illegal, obscene, or pornographic content
• It must not contain any prohibited symbols under German law, such as Nazi imagery (§ 86a StGB)
• Do not include pricing information or references to specific shops
• Make sure you own the rights to the artwork
• If people are shown, you need their permission to use their image
• If you got the artwork from someone else, you need their approval to use it

We retain the right to reject covers and call for other designs at any time!