Can I select a specific snippet for a preview of my song on DSPs?

Yes! During the submission flow for any release, you can select timestamps for a preview of your song. This preview will be applied to certain DSPs, as well as to the MasterLink for the release once it's generated. 

Setting preview timestamps lets artists share the most compelling 30-60 seconds of their track on social platforms and other DSPs, boosting engagement, pre-saves, and overall discovery.

How do I set my preview timestamps?

During the submission flow, you will be prompted to choose a timestamp for your previews in the 'Release Details' section.

The tool will allow you to scroll the waveform for your release to choose a preview, or you can input specific timestamps in the boxes below the waveform.

Where will my timestamp be applied?

DSPs have varying policies when it comes to applying your timestamps. There are effectively three scenarios in regards to your selected preview timing:

1. Your preview is accepted by the system! Most larger platforms (like Apple Music/iTunes) will accept the preview exactly as submitted and apply it to your track. On these platforms, previews are generally used for listeners who are not logged in or subscribed/haven't purchased the track, so they can hear a snippet of it.
2. The start time of the preview is accepted, but the end time is fixed. This mainly applies to TikTok - TikTok sound clips taken from full songs will always be 60 seconds, according to their regulations. Generally, the clip will start at your preferred time and continue for the full 60 seconds.
3. The preview will not be applied. On Meta (Facebook/Instagram), for example, there is an algorithm in place which calculates the 'best' part of a song based on how others have utilized it. Preview times on Meta apps change based on this algorithm.

Please see our help article here for more information on social DSPs specifically.

How does this affect my MasterLink?

When selecting a preview for your track, the snippet will also be applied to your MasterLink! That said, you can always edit the MasterLink preview separately. Please see this article for more information.