Deleting a release permanently removes it from the Artist OS workspace. Because this action can affect catalogue records, linked assets and future planning, it should only be used when the release is no longer required.

Delete or Keep the Release?

Before deleting anything, first decide whether the release should be removed permanently or simply kept as an inactive record. A draft created by mistake may be safe to delete, while a release that has already entered distribution should normally be preserved for reference.

A Release May Be Suitable for Deletion When

  • It is an unused draft created by mistake.
  • A duplicate release was added accidentally.
  • No distribution process has started.
  • No important Smart Links, reporting data or administrative records depend on it.

Do Not Delete a Release Without Checking When

  • It has already been submitted for distribution.
  • It is live or has previously been live on streaming services.
  • It contains identifiers, historical information or reporting data that may be needed later.
  • Other users or partners are still working on it.

Before Deleting a Release

  1. Open the release and verify its current status.
  2. Review the release history for recent activity.
  3. Confirm that the release is not required for distribution, reporting or support.
  4. Download or record any information you may need later.
  5. Inform other authorised users when the release is part of a shared workflow.

How to Delete a Release

  1. Open Release Management.
  2. Select the release you want to remove.
  3. Open the release actions or settings menu.
  4. Select Delete Release when this option is available.
  5. Read the confirmation message carefully.
  6. Confirm the deletion only when you are certain that the correct release is selected.
Important: Deletion may be permanent. Do not confirm the action unless you have checked the release title, artist, status and catalogue details.

Permission Requirements

The delete option may only be available to administrators or users with sufficient catalogue permissions. If the option is not visible, contact the account administrator rather than attempting to recreate or bypass the workflow.

After Deletion

Return to the Release Management overview and confirm that the release no longer appears. If it remains visible, refresh the page and check whether the system displayed an error or confirmation message.

Deleting a release from Artist OS does not automatically guarantee removal from external streaming services. A release that has already been distributed may require a separate takedown or support procedure.

Best Practices

  • Delete only unused drafts or confirmed duplicates.
  • Keep distributed releases for historical and administrative reference.
  • Use consistent naming to reduce accidental duplicates.
  • Review permissions so only authorised users can permanently remove releases.
  • Document important deletion decisions outside Artist OS when required by your organisation.

Troubleshooting

If a release cannot be deleted, check its status and your permissions. Processing, distributed or live releases may be protected from direct deletion. In that situation, use the appropriate correction, cancellation or takedown procedure instead.

  • Release Status
  • Release History
  • Updating Existing Releases
  • Distribution Process