How to Release Clean and Explicit Versions of the Same AI Song
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AI Music Distribution Guide · Reviewed September 22, 2026
Direct answer: Treat the clean and explicit recordings as clearly labeled versions. DistroKid supports releasing both, but the explicit track must be marked explicit and the clean counterpart should use appropriate version information such as “Radio Edit” when it is a censored version of an explicit original.
How DistroKid says to label them
For the explicit track, use the Explicit Lyrics field. For a clean/censored counterpart, DistroKid says to use version information such as “Radio Edit” if there is an explicit version of the same song.
Do not call an always-clean song a Radio Edit
If the song was never explicit, simply mark it as not explicit. “Radio Edit” is version information for a clean or censored alternative to an explicit original.
Keep your version control clear
- Explicit master filename
- Clean master filename
- Version labels
- ISRC for each recording/version as appropriate
- Artwork if different
- Lyrics for each version
AI-specific issue
If the clean version was made by regenerating vocals or changing the arrangement rather than simply censoring words, document what changed. A regenerated performance may be more than a simple clean edit. DistroKid also notes that some countries do not accept explicit content.
Finish the job
Still need to edit, clean up, mix or master the audio? Use BandLab as the preparation step.
Prepare or polish the track with BandLab
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Affiliate disclosure: The BandLab and DistroKid links are referral/affiliate links. Jack Righteous may earn a commission or referral benefit if you qualify and sign up, at no extra cost to you.
Frequently asked questions
Can both versions be on the same release?
Yes. DistroKid says clean and explicit versions can be uploaded within the same release.
Should the clean version say “Radio Edit”?
When it is the clean or censored version of an explicit song, DistroKid recommends version info such as Radio Edit.
Does AI change the explicit-tag rule?
No. The store metadata rule is about the content, not how the song was generated.
Primary sources
JR note: Store and distributor workflows can change. Verify current platform requirements before making a time-sensitive release change.
