When Music Goes Live on Stores on SunoDistro
After uploading a release on SunoDistro, one of the most common questions artists have is: When will my music go live on stores?
The answer depends on several steps in the distribution process, including approval, store delivery, and platform-specific processing.
This guide explains how the release timeline works, why availability may differ between platforms, and what artists should realistically expect after submission.
From Upload to Live Release: How the Process Works
When you submit a release on SunoDistro, it does not go live instantly. The process generally follows these stages:
Submission – You upload audio, artwork, and metadata
Review & Approval – SunoDistro checks the release for compliance
Store Delivery – Approved releases are sent to selected platforms
Platform Processing – Each store reviews and publishes the release
Only after a platform completes its internal processing does your music become visible to listeners.
Approval vs Live on Stores
It is important to understand that approval and store availability are not the same thing.
Approval means your release has passed SunoDistro’s review
Going live depends on individual store systems
Even if a release is approved quickly, stores may still need additional time to process and publish it.
Typical Timeline After Approval
Once approved:
Some platforms may publish music within a few hours or days
Others may take several days depending on their update cycles
This difference is normal and does not indicate an issue with your release.
Same-Day Releases vs Scheduled Releases
Same-Day Release
If you select the current date as your release date:
Music goes live as soon as platforms finish processing
Availability timing may vary across stores
Some platforms may appear later than others
Same-day releases are suitable for quick launches but offer less control.
Future Release Date (Recommended)
Choosing a future release date provides:
Time for platforms to process content
More consistent global availability
Reduced risk of partial store visibility
A future release date helps ensure a smoother launch across platforms.
Why Music Appears on Some Stores First
It is common for music to appear on one platform before another. Reasons include:
Different store review speeds
Regional processing differences
Platform-specific publishing schedules
Your music is not missing if it appears gradually.
Country & Regional Availability
Store availability may also depend on location:
Some platforms launch releases country-by-country
Regional licensing rules may apply
Updates may roll out in phases
As a result, listeners in different countries may see your release at different times.
What Artists Should Do After Approval
After approval:
Allow sufficient time for store processing
Check multiple platforms
Avoid re-uploading or editing unnecessarily
Frequent changes can slow down distribution.
When to Contact Support
You may consider contacting support if:
The release is missing after a reasonable wait
A specific store has not updated for an extended period
There is a clear inconsistency across platforms
Providing accurate release details helps resolve issues faster.
Best Practices for a Smooth Launch
Choose a future release date
Upload complete and accurate metadata
Follow artwork and audio guidelines
Plan promotion around the release date
These steps reduce delays and confusion.
Conclusion
When music goes live on stores depends on approval status, store processing times, and regional policies. While SunoDistro delivers your music efficiently, each platform controls its own publishing timeline.
By understanding the process and planning ahead, artists can set realistic expectations and ensure a smooth, professional release across all supported stores.