Fronic Media QC Guide

UpdatedMay 5, 2025

ByFronic Media

Introduction: Welcome to the Fronic Media Quality Control (QC) Guide. This document is designed to help you align your release with platform policies and ensure a smooth and efficient review process. By following the guidelines, you’ll avoid unnecessary delays and rejections, and your release will go live on schedule

Why Quality Control Matters:
At Fronic Media, we aim to deliver high-quality content and metadata that meets the standards of all platforms we distribute to. This guide ensures that all submissions are reviewed properly and comply with platform regulations.

Failure to Adhere to Guidelines Will Result in Penalties:
We will impose a penalty of $0.20 USD for users who repeatedly fail to follow the guidelines, causing unnecessary wastage of our time and resources. This penalty is non-negotiable, and consistent non-compliance will not be tolerated. If a sub-label repeatedly submits incorrect content, the penalty will be deducted from the parent label, as the parent label is responsible for collecting royalties and ensuring that its sub-labels submit accurate content. It is the parent label’s duty to enforce correct submission practices and prevent such issues from arising.
The penalty will be deducted from the upcoming royalty payments being made to the user.

1. ARTWORK GUIDELINES

Your release cover art must adhere to the following specifications, which are required by many of our partners:

1.1. The artwork must have a minimum size of 3000 x 3000 pixels and be a perfect square.
1.2. It should have a minimum resolution of 72 DPI (though 300 DPI is recommended for higher quality).
1.3. The color mode must be RGB; artworks in CMYK will not display correctly on digital platforms.
1.4. Only JPEG file format is accepted.
1.5. Do not submit thumbnails, .PNG files, or images smaller than the required dimensions.
1.6. For non-film (independent) releases, do not include video-related credits such as “Video by,” “Directed by,” “Editor,” etc., as these are audio-only releases. These credits are allowed only for movie songs or web series tracks.
1.7. The title, artist name, composer, lyricist, and label name shown on the artwork must exactly match the metadata submitted with the release.
1.8. The artwork must not include any social media icons, handles, or contact numbers.
1.9. Do not add any place or city names on the artwork.
1.10. Do not use copyrighted images or logos unless you have proper authorization. The artwork must be original or properly licensed to avoid copyright issues.
1.11. All text on the artwork should be clearly legible, with good contrast between the text and background. Avoid using overly decorative fonts that are difficult to read.
1.12. If multiple artists are featured, their names must be clearly visible and properly formatted. Do not include the name of chorus artists, background vocalists on artwork.
1.13. If the artwork includes recognizable people, you must have written permission for their use.
1.14. The file size should be optimized—not too large to prevent loading issues but still maintaining good quality. The maximum file size allowed is 2MB.
1.15. Do not include any time-based language, such as “New Release,” “Exclusive,” or “Out xx/xx,” on the artwork.
1.16. Do not use UPC barcodes, QR codes, or logos that suggest physical formats, such as “Compact Disc” or “CD.”
1.17. Do not include logos of vehicles, clothing brands, commercial products, or promotional phrases like “Listen on,” “Watch on,” or “Available at.”

2. METADATA GUIDELINES – RELEASE INFO

2.1 – Release Type

Select the appropriate release type based on the total number of tracks and the nature of your project:

Single – Select this if your release contains only one track. (Single tracks above 10 minutes in duration should be marked as an EP.)
EP (Extended Play) – Select this if your release contains 2 to 6 tracks and the total duration is typically under 30 minutes. It should not be classified as an album.
Album – Select this for releases with 7 or more tracks, or if the total runtime is 30 minutes or more.
Compilation- Select this option if the release is a collection of songs by multiple artists or pulled from various sources (e.g., greatest hits, label samplers, themed playlists).

2.2 – Release Title

The title should contain the song name in the case of singles. For albums, EPs, or compilations, the album/EP/compilation name should be provided.
Do not include versions in the title such as live, slowed reverb, long version, acoustic version, or similar modifiers.
Do not mention side-by-side translations of the song title (e.g., English-Hindi, English-Punjabi).
The release title must match the title shown on the artwork, including spaces, punctuation.
In the case of a movie release, you can mention the movie name using the format:
Song Name (from “Movie Name”).

2.3 – Primary Artist and Featuring Artist

The artist name should not be a generic name like “Nature Sounds,” “Healing Music,” or “Meditation Music.”
The artist name on both Spotify ID and Apple Music ID must match exactly, including punctuation, spaces, and capitalization. If creating a new profile, make sure to add “NEW” to the Spotify ID and Apple Music ID.
If there are more than three artists featured on a track or album, the Primary Artist at the release level must be listed as “Various Artists”. Individual artists can be credited in the Song Info Artist Credits.
The Artist name should match the name on the artwork.
If the artist is in the Apple Music or Spotify watchlist, we may ask for documents to verify the rights. Make sure to keep a copy of these documents handy in such cases to ensure smooth processing.
Make sure to enter the correct artist name. Do not use sound-alike or type-alike artist names that resemble big artists, as this could lead to legal conflicts. This is important to maintain authenticity and avoid any legal complications.

2.4 – Genre and Sub Genre

Select the most suitable genre from the provided list.
For kids’ music, select “Children” as the primary genre and provide additional details in the sub-genre field, such as Rhymes, Sing-Along, Stories, or Lullabies.
For content with spoken words, select “Audiobook” as the genre and provide further details in the sub-genre field, such as Audio Drama, Educational, or Spiritual.
Ensure that the genre and sub-genre are not the same, and only one sub-genre is specified.

2.5 – Label Name

The label name must match the name provided in the contract or B2B agreement.
The label name on the artwork should exactly match the label name in the metadata. Do not use multiple label names on the artwork.
The label name cannot be changed after approval.
The label name should not contain fonts in different languages.
The label name cannot start with a blank space.

2.5 – Release Date

Select the release date from the available options in the picker.
The release date cannot be changed after approval.
We recommend submitting your release at least 7 days prior to the selected release date.

2.6 – ℗ Line

Provide the correct phonographic copyright holder name in this field. You are liable for any legal conflicts that may arise in the future related to this information.
The ℗ line should not contain fonts in different languages.
The ℗ line cannot start with a blank space.

2.7-© Line

Provide the correct composition copyright holder name in this field. You are liable for any legal conflicts that may arise in the future related to this information.
The © line should not contain fonts in different languages.
The © line cannot start with a blank space.

2.8 – UPC/ EAN

If you have a UPC or EAN for your release, you can paste it here; otherwise, leave the field blank. We will assign a UPC for the release.
Do not enter alphabets in this field — it must contain only numeric values.
A UPC is 13 digits. If you have a 12-digit UPC, prefix it with a 0 (zero).
Do not start the UPC with a blank space.
Do not submit content using a UPC that has already been submitted to us by you for a previous release.

3. AUDIO FILE GUIDELINES

Your audio file must meet the following specifications, as required by many of our partners:

3.1. Format and Technical Specifications

Format: MP3 or WAV
Minimum Quality: 16-bit, 44.1 kHz, Stereo
Recommended Quality: 24-bit, 48 kHz or 24-bit, 96 kHz
Maximum File Size: 100 MB
Minimum Duration: Must be longer than 60 seconds

3.2. Audio Quality Guidelines

The audio file must not contain any imperfections, including background noise, static, distortion, or sound anomalies.
The audio must be clean and professionally mastered.

3.3. Content Restrictions

No blank spaces or gaps between parts of the audio.
No advertisements at the beginning, middle, or end of the track.
Do not include more than 3 seconds of silence at the start or end of the file.

4. METADATA GUIDELINES – SONG INFO

4.1 – Track Version

Select the appropriate version type for your track from the list below:

Original – Choose this if the track is your original composition and performance.
Karaoke – Select this if the track is an instrumental version intended for sing-alongs, without the main vocal.
Medley – Use this if the track is a combination of multiple songs or parts of songs blended together.
Cover – Select this if the track is a new performance of a song originally created by another artist. Make sure you have the proper rights to release it.

4.2 – Instrumental

Select Yes if the track does not contain any vocals or lyrical content. Choose No if the track includes vocals, lyrics, or any form of singing/talking.

Yes – The track is purely instrumental (e.g., background score, beat, melody without vocals).
No – The track includes singing, rapping, chanting, spoken word, or any vocal elements.

Make sure this selection aligns with the actual content of your audio file. Mislabeling may result in rejection.

4.3 – Title

The title should reflect the song name in the case of singles. For albums, EPs, or compilations, the title must match the track list and artwork.
Do not include version modifiers such as live, slowed reverb, long version, acoustic version, etc.
Do not use side-by-side translations of the song title (e.g., “Dil Tod Diya – Heartbroken”).
The release title must exactly match what is shown on the artwork, including spacing, capitalization, and punctuation.
For movie songs, the title can include the movie name using the following format:
Song Name (from “Movie Name”).

4.4 – Version / Subtitle

Use this field to mention specific versions or modifiers of the track. This helps clarify what variation of the original song is being released.
You can mention versions like: Slowed Reverb, Sped Up, Acoustic Version, Remix Version, Refix Version, Part 2, Volume 1, Live Version, Instrumental, Radio Edit, Extended Mix, Lo-fi Version, Orchestral Version, Piano Version, Club Mix, DJ Edit, Reprise, Mashup, Demo Version, Intro Version, Outro Version, Studio Version, Unplugged Version, Dub Version, Clean Version, Explicit Version, Alternate Version, Bonus Track, Reimagined Version, Anniversary Edition, Stripped Version, Remastered Version, Chill Version, 8D Audio Version, B-Side Version etc.
Do not include these details in the main title field — they belong only in the Version / Subtitle section.
Make sure the version mentioned here is consistent across metadata, audio intro/outro (if spoken), and artwork (if applicable).

4.5 – Primary Artist and Featuring Artist

The artist name should not be a generic name like “Nature Sounds,” “Healing Music,” or “Meditation Music.”
The artist name on both Spotify ID and Apple Music ID must match exactly, including punctuation, spaces, and capitalization. If you’re creating a new profile, make sure to add “NEW” to the Spotify ID and Apple Music ID.
The artist name should match the name on the artwork. Make sure it is consistent across metadata and visuals.
In the case of an album, only the artists performing on the track you are submitting should be credited. Do not credit any other artists not performing on the track.
Do not credit any other performers in this field apart from the artist, composer, or lyricist.
If the artist is in the Apple Music or Spotify watchlist, we may ask for documents to verify the rights. Make sure to keep a copy of these documents handy in such cases to ensure smooth processing.
Make sure to enter the correct artist name. Do not use sound-alike or type-alike artist names that resemble big artists, as this could lead to legal conflicts. This is important to maintain authenticity and avoid any legal complications.

4.6 – Author (Lyricist)

Must include the first and last name of the author (lyricist).
Do not use generic names like “Various Artists,” “Gameplay,” “Background Music,” or “Nature Music.” If the release is nature or meditation music, it should be marked as instrumental, and you must mention “Instrumental” in the author field.
In the case of a traditional release, you can mention “Traditional” or “Indian Devotional” if the track is based on devotional themes.
The author name should match exactly with the name on the artwork, including spelling, spaces, and punctuation.
This field cannot be changed later to avoid conflicts in metadata during the publishing process, so make sure to mention the author correctly the first time.

4.7 – Composer (Lyricist)

Must include the first and last name of the composer.
Do not use generic names like “Various Artists,” “Gameplay,” “Background Music,” “Nature Music,” or “Traditional.”
The composer name must match exactly with the name on the artwork, including spelling, spaces, and punctuation.
This field cannot be changed later to avoid conflicts in metadata during the publishing process, so make sure to mention the author correctly the first time.

4.8 – Producer

This field is meant to credit the music producer — the individual responsible for the musical production of the track.
Do not credit the financial or executive producer (i.e., someone who only funded the project).
Ensure the producer name is accurate and consistent across all metadata and visuals.

4.8 – Producer

Provide the correct phonographic copyright holder name in this field. You are liable for any legal conflicts that may arise in the future related to this information.
The ℗ line should not contain fonts in different languages.
The ℗ line cannot start with a blank space.

4.9 – Production Year

Enter the year in which the track was created and finalized (produced).
The value must be in YYYY format (e.g., 2025).
Do not include any date or month.
The field should not start with a blank space.

4.10 – Publisher

Enter the name of the company or society that holds the publishing rights for this track.
Make sure the name is accurate and properly spelled.
You are legally responsible for any conflicts or rights disputes that may arise from incorrect information

4.11 – ISRC (International Standard Recording Code)

Select Yes if you already have an ISRC for the track.
- The ISRC must be exactly 12 characters long (e.g., IN-ABC-24-12345).
- Do not start the ISRC with a blank space.
- Do not use an ISRC that has already been submitted to us for another release unless it’s part of a compilation.
Select No if you don’t have an ISRC — our system will automatically generate one for your track.

4.12 – Genre and Sub Genre

Select the most suitable genre from the provided list.
For kids’ music, select “Children” as the primary genre and provide additional details in the sub-genre field, such as Rhymes, Sing-Along, Stories, or Lullabies.
For content with spoken words, select “Audiobook” as the genre and provide further details in the sub-genre field, such as Audio Drama, Educational, or Spiritual.
Ensure that the genre and sub-genre are not the same, and only one sub-genre is specified.

4.13 – Price Tier
Select the appropriate price tier for your single or album based on your preference.

This determines how your content will be priced on digital platforms.
Ensure the selected tier aligns with the perceived value and type of your release (e.g., single, EP, full album).
Pricing may vary across stores, but your tier selection will guide the default pricing.

4.14 – Explicit Version

Select “Yes” if the track contains explicit content such as strong language, sexual references, or graphic descriptions.
Select “No” if the track does not contain any explicit content.
Select “Clean” if you are distributing a cleaned-up version of a previously released explicit track.
Make sure this selection is accurate, as incorrect tagging can lead to takedowns or rejection by platforms.

4.15- Track Title Language

Enter the language in which the song title is written.
Make sure to select the correct language to ensure proper categorization and avoid any issues during publishing.
Do not select multiple languages — choose the primary language used in the title.

4.16- Lyrics Language

Select the language in which the audio (lyrics) is performed.
Make sure to select the correct and accurate language to ensure proper categorization and avoid publishing issues.
Do not select multiple languages — choose the primary language used in the lyrics.
This field cannot be changed later, so ensure accuracy before submission.

4.18 – Lyrics

Do not provide lyrics in this field.
Instead, use the Lyrics Tool to submit your lyrics: https://app.fronicmedia.com/tools/distribute-lyrics
Submitting lyrics through the tool ensures they are formatted and delivered correctly to platforms.

4.19 – Caller Tune Timing

You must mention the start time of the caller tune.
Ensure the track has at least 45 seconds left before the end duration to avoid delivery failure.
This field is mandatory and cannot be changed later.
The format should be hh:mm:ss (hours:minutes:seconds).
Make sure the timing is accurate to avoid any issues during distribution.

4.20 – Want to distribute a music video?

Do not use the option for regular music distribution.
Instead, use the Create Video Release tool to properly distribute your music video: https://app.fronicmedia.com/create_video_releases

5. PLATFORMS

By default, all platforms are selected for distribution.

5.1 – Custom Delivery

If you want to perform custom delivery and opt out of any DSP (Digital Service Provider) for a particular release, you will need to provide the Release ID.

For example, in the following link: https://app.fronicmedia.com/create_releases/20580 – “20580” is the Release ID.

After sharing the Release ID, mention the DSP(s) that you want to opt out of for delivery.
Make sure to submit the ticket immediately after submitting the song to avoid any delays in the distribution process. This will ensure timely processing and delivery of your release.4o mini

5.2 – DSPs Guidelines
Make sure your release aligns with the guidelines of the following DSPs:

Meta – Meta Sound Recording Reference File Policy
Apple – Apple Music iTunes Content Guidelines
Spotify – Spotify Metadata Guidelines

These guidelines must be followed to ensure that your content is properly processed and distributed.4o mini

5.3 – Curated Platforms

Some platforms are marked as curated, which means that the approval for content to go live depends on the platform’s own criteria and terms.
These platforms review content before it is published, and they may accept or reject releases based on their individual guidelines or standards.
Ensure your release meets the specific requirements of curated platforms to avoid delays or rejections.

5.4 Expired Platforms

Some platforms are marked Expired, which means:
- The delivery feed to that DSP has been revoked by us.
- The DSP has shut down or is no longer operational.
- Our contract with the DSP has not been renewed or has expired.
If you need further clarification or details, please reach out to support@fronicmedia.com.

6. SUBMISSION

6.1 – Verify Details

We recommend verifying all the details, artwork, and audio before submitting for the review process.
Some information cannot be changed later, so it’s crucial to double-check everything to avoid any issues.

6.2 – Distribution Agreement

Make sure to read the Distribution Agreement before checking the box and submitting your release.

6.3 Privacy Policy

Ensure you read the Privacy Policy before checking the box and submitting your release.