Prepare the master
Export the final mix as an uncompressed WAV file — the standard is 24-bit / 48kHz. Listen to the file all the way through, from beginning to end, on headphones and on a phone speaker. Check the start and the end for clicks, and don't leave extra silence at either end.
Cover art that passes review
Your cover art travels with the release to every store. The spec is 3000×3000 pixels, RGB. Keep text minimal and readable at thumbnail size, and avoid platform logos, account handles, prices and links — stores reject cover art that carries them.
Metadata and codes
Metadata is how the world finds you: an artist name spelled the same way on every release, the real title with no decoration, and the correct language and genre tags. The codes — ISRC for the recording and UPC for the release — are assigned during preparation; you don't need to buy them anywhere.
Choose the release date
Give yourself room. A date several weeks out leaves space for review, delivery and pitching before day one. Line the date up with anything you control — a video, a show, a run of posts — so the release lands with support behind it rather than alone.
Request your invite
Mazufa works by invitation only. Completed applications enter a human review queue as capacity allows. Submitting does not create an account; those accepted may receive a dedicated preparation invite.
After acceptance
After preparation, your release is packaged to spec and delivered to every platform, and its data is pitched to the appropriate editorial and algorithmic surfaces. From there, watch your dashboard: streams, saves and playlist adds, per platform and per country.
The fingerprint code every recording carries — it tracks streams and earnings worldwide.
Your release barcode — one per single, EP or album.
Digital service provider — Spotify, Apple Music, Anghami and every store on earth.
The problem many artists overlook
Imagine you have built up earnings for months in your distributor account, then you open the app to find that the minimum withdrawal has suddenly doubled with no prior notice. This scenario is not hypothetical; a number of artists are already facing it with some music distribution platforms. The problem is not only about money — it extends to the distributor's credibility and its relationship with the artist.
What exactly does "minimum withdrawal" mean?
The minimum withdrawal is the amount that has to accumulate in your account before you can transfer it to your bank account or digital wallet. Some distributors set it at 10 dollars, others at 50 dollars or more. The problem starts when the distributor raises this threshold without notice, because that immediately affects money already sitting in your account.
What exactly happens to your money?
When the minimum is raised without notice, things are affected on several levels:
- A temporary freeze on earnings: If you had accumulated an amount that was enough to withdraw under the old terms, you may find yourself unable to withdraw until you reach the new, higher threshold.
- A longer income cycle: Artists who rely on regular earnings find that the cycle of receiving their money stretches out unexpectedly.
- No transparency: Without notice, you do not know when the change happened or how long you will wait, and that disrupts any financial planning.
- Harder to compare and evaluate: If you are thinking of changing distributor, a change in the minimum makes comparing your options harder, because the actual terms differ from what is advertised.
Do your songs stay on the platforms?
Yes, in most cases your songs stay available on the platforms regardless of the financial status of your account with the distributor. Changing the withdrawal threshold does not mean your songs are pulled from distribution. But if you decide to leave the distributor over this problem, be aware that moving your catalogue to another distributor can take weeks, and your songs may disappear temporarily from some platforms during that period.
Practical steps to protect yourself
- Read the terms of service before you sign up: Look specifically for the clause on the distributor's right to amend the terms, and when it is obliged to notify you and when it is not.
- Withdraw your earnings regularly: Do not let them pile up for long periods. The earlier you withdraw, the less you lose if the terms change.
- Follow the distributor's official channels: Many distributors announce changes by email or on their blog, so make sure you follow their messages.
- Document your current balance: Take periodic screenshots of your accumulated earnings. This helps if you need to contact support or file a complaint.
- Check the refund policy when an account is closed: Some distributors return the remaining amounts if you close your account, and others do not if you have not reached the minimum.
Why do some artists choose a distributor with no minimum withdrawal?
The minimum withdrawal is a problem specific to distributors that hold your money until it reaches a certain threshold. Some distribution platforms now allow earnings to be withdrawn flexibly with no minimum amount required, or with a very low minimum, which suits independent artists whose monthly earnings may be limited in the early stages.
Mazufa and financial transparency
At Mazufa we believe the artist should always know where their money goes and when they can reach it. We work on a revenue-share model presented after the application is reviewed, and we aim for terms that are clear and written in language any artist can understand. If you are considering distribution, or looking for an alternative that gives you more clarity and control, we would be glad for you to look at what we offer.
The bottom line
Changing the minimum withdrawal without notice is not a minor annoyance; it is an indicator of how much a distributor respects artists' rights and how transparent it is in its dealings. Compare your options carefully, read the terms, and make sure your money is safe regardless of any sudden changes.