How to Submit a Metadata Update to Spotify
Accurate Spotify metadata forms the backbone of how your music appears, gets discovered, and earns royalties on the platform. If you need to correct a misspelled artist name, update track credits, or fix release details, you must follow Spotify’s structured process to submit a metadata update—since you cannot edit metadata directly on the platform. This guide explains how metadata Spotify works, who can change it, and how to edit metadata on Spotify the right way.
What Is Spotify Music Metadata?
Spotify music metadata is the structured information attached to every track, album, and artist on the platform. It helps Spotify organize content and power search, recommendations, and royalties.
Common Spotify metadata includes:
- Song title and version (explicit, remix, live, etc.)
- Primary and featured artists
- Album name and artwork
- Release date
- Genre and language
- Songwriter, producer, and copyright credits
Correct spotify song metadata ensures your music appears correctly across playlists, search results, and artist profiles.
Can You Edit Metadata Directly on Spotify?
A common misconception is that artists can edit metadata on Spotify directly. In reality, Spotify does not allow manual metadata editing inside the app or Spotify for Artists.
Important rule:
- Spotify does not accept metadata changes directly from artists
- All updates must be submitted through your distributor
Spotify only ingests and updates metadata sent by official distribution partners.
Who Can Submit a Metadata Update to Spotify?
Only your music distributor or label can submit a metadata update to Spotify. Examples include:
- DistroKid
- TuneCore
- CD Baby
- AWAL
- Amuse
If you’re signed to a label, the label handles metadata corrections. Independent artists must log in to their distributor’s dashboard.
How to Submit a Metadata Update to Spotify
Here’s the standard process to update metadata Spotify listings.
Step 1: Identify the Metadata Error
Check exactly what needs to be corrected:
- Misspelled artist or song name
- Incorrect featured artist
- Wrong release date or album title
- Missing credits
Be specific. Spotify may reject vague requests.
Step 2: Log In to Your Distributor Account
Go to the platform that distributed your music to Spotify. Most distributors allow metadata edits under the release management section.
Typical options include:
- “Edit Release”
- “Metadata Correction”
- “Support Request”
Step 3: Submit the Metadata Update Request
Depending on the distributor:
- Minor edits (capitalization, credits) may be editable directly
- Major changes (artist name, song title) often require a support ticket
Your distributor will then resend the updated spotify song metadata to Spotify.
Step 4: Wait for Spotify to Process the Update
Once submitted:
- Processing time usually takes 2–7 days
- Some changes may take longer across all regions
- Older releases may require re-approval
Spotify will automatically update the track once the new metadata is accepted.
What Metadata Changes Are Allowed?
Commonly accepted updates:
- Typos and formatting fixes
- Credit corrections
- Genre adjustments
- Adding missing contributors
Restricted or sensitive changes:
- Artist name changes
- Song title rewrites
- Track replacement
Spotify reviews major edits more carefully to prevent abuse or fraud.
How to Avoid Metadata Problems in the Future
To minimize future issues with spotify music metadata:
- Double-check all fields before submission
- Use consistent artist naming across releases
- Confirm featured artist formatting
- Avoid last-minute edits before release
Final Thoughts
Maintaining accurate metadata spotify is an ongoing task for artists and labels. By working with your distributor or label, following Spotify’s guidelines, and using the right tools to prepare your metadata, you can ensure your music is presented correctly, reaches the right audience, and earns the royalties it deserves. Whether you’re fixing a small typo or updating major release details, the key is to act through official channels and verify changes promptly.
