AI Music Monetization Guide 2026 (Chapter 6: Pre-Release System)

Gary Whittaker
2026-04-07T12:46:53-04:00

Chapter 6

Pre-Release Monetization Readiness System

Most monetization problems don’t happen after release. They happen before it — when something is missed, rushed, or assumed.

This system acts as your final checkpoint. Before any asset goes live, it must pass a structured readiness check. This reduces flags, delays, and lost monetization opportunities.

Core Principle

Minutes of preparation can prevent weeks of delays, flags, or lost revenue.

What Happens Without This System

Uploading assets that cannot be monetized

Missing required platform disclosures

Similarity flags that could have been avoided

Metadata issues triggering unnecessary reviews

Publishing the wrong version of an asset

Step 1 — Rights Compatibility Check

Was this asset created under a commercial AI plan?

Was the plan active at the time of creation?

Have you logged the tool, tier, and creation date?

If this is unclear, do not monetize the asset yet.

Step 2 — Platform Compatibility Check

Does this platform allow AI-generated content?

Are disclosures required (e.g., AI content labels)?

Have any recent policy changes been reviewed?

Platform rules change. Always verify before publishing.

Step 3 — Similarity Risk Check

Does this strongly resemble a known track or artist?

Have you added enough original edits?

Are you releasing multiple similar assets at once?

If similarity risk is high, apply edits before publishing.

Step 4 — Asset Preparation Check

Final version selected (not a draft)

File naming is clear and organized

Correct export settings used

Metadata (title, description, credits) is accurate

Step 5 — Monetization Path Confirmation

Confirm your primary path again before publishing:

Primary monetization path: __________________________

If this is unclear, your release is not ready.

Final Decision Gate

If all checks pass → publish. If any check fails → pause and fix before release.

Pre-Release Checklist

☐ Rights verified

☐ Platform compatibility confirmed

☐ Similarity risk reviewed

☐ Asset finalized and organized

☐ Monetization path confirmed