Here's how releasing on Apple Music and iTunes works with The Artist Platform, and how to manage your Apple Music profile once you're live. Each section links to a full article if you want more detail.
Getting your music on Apple Music
Once you submit a release, our review takes 1–2 business days. After that, stores usually have it within 7 days. Submit at least 5 weeks before your release date, so there's time to plan your promotion. How long until my release is live?
If you already have music on Apple Music, add your Apple artist ID when you create your release. That way your new music lands on your existing profile.
Claim Apple Music for Artists
Apple Music for Artists is Apple's free tool for seeing your stats and managing your artist profile. To claim it:
Wait until your music has been live on Apple Music for at least 5 business days.
Go to artists.apple.com and sign in with your Apple Account.
Find your artist page by pasting a link to your artist page or album from Apple Music.
Choose your role (artist or manager) and fill in the form. Linking your social media accounts helps Apple confirm it's you.
Your request shows as Pending while Apple reviews it, and Apple emails you with updates. Only the primary artist on a release can claim the page. Featured artists can't. If you've heard nothing after 10 business days, contact Apple through Apple Music for Artists support.
Make your profile stand out
Artist image. Upload it in Apple Music for Artists. Apple prefers 2400 × 2400 pixels or larger, and review can take up to 5 business days. How to update your artist page images
Lyrics. Add lyrics so fans can sing along. Where will my lyrics show up?
Download prices on iTunes. Pricing for downloads in stores
How Apple Music pays
Apple Music works out royalties by stream share, so the value of a stream depends on the listener's plan and country. How streaming royalties work
Fixing common problems
What's happening | What to do |
My release went to the wrong artist profile | |
My release isn't on Apple Music yet | Check the timings above. If it's past your release date, see Music missing in stores. |
My Apple Music for Artists request is stuck | Wait 10 business days, check your spam folder, then contact Apple's support. |
Need help?
Message us through the chat in The Artist Platform with your release title and UPC. We aim to reply within 1 business day.