You wrote a new rap song — now what? Here's the exact 10-step checklist every rapper should follow before releasing.

Introduction

Finishing a rap song is an amazing feeling.
But the truth is: writing the song is only the first step.

Most artists get stuck after writing and don’t know what to do next:

  • Should you record it asap?

  • Should you mix it?

  • Should you promote it?

  • Should you release it right away?

This guide gives you a simple 10-step checklist you can follow for every new track you make — from writing to releasing.

Let’s begin.

1. Choose the Right Beat (and Lock the License)

Before recording, make sure the beat you’re using is properly licensed.

On my website, you get:

  • Mix-ready WAV files

  • Stems (with Unlimited or Exclusive)

  • Instant download

  • Clean folder structure

  • Billboard-level sound

And you can choose from:

  • WAV Lease

  • Unlimited Lease

  • Exclusive License

👉 Tip: If you plan to push the song hard, always use Unlimited or Exclusive.

2. Practice Your Delivery Before Recording

Don’t jump into the booth immediately.

Do this first:

  • Memorize your lyrics

  • Practice flow variations

  • Fix breath control

  • Lock in the cadence

  • Try different emotional tones

This is where songs level up from “decent” to “professional.”

3. Record a Rough Demo First

Before the final take, record a quick demo.

You’ll instantly hear:

  • What lines feel weak

  • What flows sound off

  • Where ad-libs should go

  • If the hook hits hard enough

A rough demo saves hours of studio time.

4. Re-Write Weak Parts of the Song

Great artists don’t write once — they rewrite.

Check:

  • Are your punchlines hitting?

  • Is the chorus catchy?

  • Does the verse drag too long?

  • Does the track need a bridge?

Small edits make a HUGE difference in final quality.

5. Record The Final Vocal Takes (Quality Matters)

Now it’s time for the real recording.

For best results:

  • Use a treated room

  • Use a pop filter

  • Keep consistent mic distance

  • Record doubles, ad-libs, harmonies

  • Stay hydrated

Your beat already sounds professional — your vocals must match that level.

6. Organize Your Files Like a Pro

This is something most new artists mess up.

Create a folder:

  • Song Name

    • Vocals RAW

    • Vocals Edited

    • Beat (WAV + Stems)

    • Mixdown

    • Final Master

This makes your life 10x easier and helps engineers mix faster.

7. Get Mixing & Mastering Done Properly

Never release an unmixed song in 2025.

A proper mix:

  • balances vocals

  • adds polish

  • widens the stereo field

  • adds warmth

  • controls harshness

  • boosts loudness

If you’re using beats from my website, they’re already mix-ready — meaning your engineer can work quicker and achieve a clean, professional sound instantly.

8. Set Up Cover Art & Branding

A good song needs a good visual.

Before releasing:

  • Create clean cover art

  • Match your brand style

  • Use professional fonts

  • Make sure it looks good small & large

  • Avoid clutter

This is one of the easiest ways to stand out on Spotify & Apple Music.

This is how my Cover looks for one of my tracks with the artist I made myself: 

9. Register Your Song Correctly (Don’t Skip This)

Before you release, make sure you handle your business:

  • Register with your PRO (BMI, ASCAP, SOZA, etc.)

  • Upload correct publishing splits

  • Make sure your beat license allows monetization

  • Disable Content ID (unless you have Exclusive Rights)

This step prevents copyright issues and protects your earnings.

10. Release & Promote the Right Way

Promotion matters just as much as the music.

Start with:

  • TikTok snippets

  • Instagram reels

  • YouTube shorts

  • Spotify pre-save campaigns

  • Early fan engagement

  • Behind-the-scenes content

Bonus tip:
Use multiple songs to stay consistent.
With my Buy 2 Get 1 Free or Buy 3 Get 2 Free bundle deals, you can build a release schedule faster.

Bonus Tip: Use a Beat Catalog That Helps You Move Fast

On my website, you get everything ready for your next track:

✓ Mix-ready beats
✓ Billboard-level production
✓ Industry-standard licensing
✓ Instant download
✓ WAV + stems available
✓ Loyalty points on every purchase
✓ Bulk deals for EPs & albums

This means you can write, record, release — and repeat — without slowing down.

Final Thoughts

Writing a rap song is just the beginning.
If you follow this 10-step checklist, you’ll turn ideas into professional, ready-for-release music every time.

When you're ready for your next track, check out my beat store:

🔥 Buy 2 Beats, Get 1 Free
🔥 Buy 3 Beats, Get 2 Free
Earn rewards with every purchase
🎧 Beats from a Billboard #1 producer

👉 Start browsing beats now