Introduction
This article explains how FUGA clients can deliver music video products to Spotify via the FUGA Platform following the launch of the Spotify Video pilot. It covers the specific delivery processes, technical asset specifications, metadata requirements, and content guidelines necessary for successful ingestion. By following these instructions, clients can ensure their music videos are available to Spotify users in supported global territories.
Overview
Spotify Video is currently in a pilot phase with a select group of providers. This feature allows FUGA clients to deliver "Video Singles" directly to Spotify for playback within the app. A Video Single must consist of exactly one video asset and one thumbnail image. Deliveries containing multiple videos, audio files, or additional assets will be cancelled by the DSP (Digital Service Provider). Note that if you do not have a Digital Distribution feed agreement with FUGA for this service, you must obtain a direct invitation from Spotify to participate.
Delivery Process
To deliver music videos to Spotify, use the "Spotify Video" feed within the FUGA Platform. This feed is specifically designated for music video content and ensures the product is routed correctly to Spotify’s video ingestion system.
Video Types
Spotify currently accepts the following music video formats:
- Official Music Videos: Premium or professional videos created to amplify the story of a track. These require a clear audio counterpart delivered to Spotify.
- Performance Videos: Videos that do not require a clear audio counterpart delivered to Spotify.
- Live Performance Videos: Professional recordings of a live music performance of a song.
- Cover Song Videos: Professional recordings of a performance of songs originally by other artists.
Spotify does not currently accept the following content types:
- Lyric Videos: Videos that contain lyrics as the primary visual element.
- Pseudo Videos: Visualizers or static image captures delivered as a video.
- Talk-centric Videos: Content where spoken dialogue or narration is the primary focus (e.g., interviews, press videos, or behind-the-scenes content).
- Videos with closed captioning.
Technical Specifications
Music video assets must adhere to strict technical standards to ensure high-quality playback across all devices.
For H.264 and H.265 video codec: MP4 container (ISO/IEC 14496–14:2003 [MPEG-4 Part 14])
For ProRes video codec: MOV/QuickTime container
Codec: H.264 (MPEG-4 AVC) main or high profile, H.265 (HEVC), Apple ProRes 422 HQ
Resolution: 1080p or higher is preferred and recommended. SD and 720p are supported but non-optimal for larger screens.
Aspect ratio: Any aspect ratio is supported. 16:9 or 9:16 recommended.
Do not add borders to meet aspect ratio requirements.
Do not crop source material to fit into the optimal aspect ratio.
Colorspace: Rec.709 or Rec.2020
Chroma subsampling: 4:2:0, 4:2:2, or 4:4:4
Dynamic range: Standard Dynamic Range (Rec.709) or HDR HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma, Rec.2100)
Frame rate: 24, 25, 30, 50, or 60 FPS
Also supported: 23.97p, 29.97p, 59.94p FPS
Distance between video keyframes (GOP size): Approx. one keyframe per second recommended. Must have at least one keyframe every 60 seconds.
PTS (Presentation Time Stamp): 50ms or less difference between first frame and time 0.
Thumbnail Requirements
All videos must be accompanied by a thumbnail image. This image must be a still capture from the music video itself and must not be the album artwork.
Recommended Dimensions: 1920 x 1080 pixels.
Accepted Codecs: JPEG, PNG.
Metadata and Artist Mapping
Proper metadata association is critical for the user experience and correct profile mapping on Spotify.
Artist Identifiers: Artist IDs must be added to the artist profile within the FUGA Platform for Spotify Video deliveries. This identifier must match the existing Spotify Artist ID to ensure the video is correctly mapped to the artist's Spotify profile.
Audio Recording ISRC: To associate a music video with its audio recording in the FUGA Platform:
- Navigate to Catalog > Products and select the relevant product.
- Click on the Asset.
- Locate the Audio Recording ISRC (International Standard Recording Code) field under the Main section.
- Enter the ISRC of the matching audio track to ensure users can switch between formats on Spotify.
Note: Official Music Video deliveries that do not contain an Audio Recording ISRC will be canceled. Live performance videos (with Version Type "Live In Concert", "Live In Studio", or "Live Session") may be delivered without this, though it is recommended if a live audio recording exists.
Spotify 18+ Tag and Content Guidelines
Spotify has implemented an age restriction policy under the Spotify 18+ tag to ensure that music videos containing offensive or mature visual content are restricted to users aged 18 and older. This tag is distinct from the "Explicit" tag in the FUGA Platform, which pertains solely to lyrical content.
In the FUGA Platform, check the tickbox on the asset-level labeled "This video contains 18+ content" if the video includes any of the following themes or imagery:
- Suicide or self-harm, including disordered eating
- Substance use, misuse, or abuse
- Graphic, shocking, or violent content
- Sexual content and nudity
- Repeated or prolonged profanity or vulgar language
For further assistance regarding Spotify video deliveries or feed configurations, contact your FUGA representative or reach out via our support channel at support@fuga.com.