Building anticipation for a new drop takes more than just a quick post on social media. If you are getting ready to roll out a project, Spotify has a built-in feature that can seriously change the game for your pre-release phase: Countdown Pages.

Think of it as a custom landing page right on your artist profile. It packs in behind-the-scenes video clips, a tracklist preview, merch links, and an automated pre-save button that actually works without the usual third-party friction.

Whether you are trying to figure out how to set up a Spotify Countdown page or need to double-check the exact Spotify countdown video requirements, here is a straightforward, no-fluff guide to getting yours live.

Why Spotify Countdown Pages Actually Move the Needle

We have all dealt with third-party pre-save links—fans have to log in, jump through hoops, and grant permissions just to save a song. It kills conversion rates.

Spotify’s native Countdown Pages fix that completely. When a fan hits “Pre-save” on your page, the album drops straight into their library the exact second it goes live. Better yet, Spotify actually pushes these pages organically across the Home tab, your artist profile, and the Upcoming Releases hub.

Tacking on short behind-the-scenes video clips makes the page feel alive and turns casual scrollers into actual day-one superfans.

Spotify Countdown Video Requirements: The Fine Print

You can upload vertical video clips (think Reels or TikTok style) that loop while people check out your page, but Spotify is pretty strict about formatting. If your files do not fit these specs, they will get kicked back:

• Aspect Ratio: Must be vertical format.

• Sound: Audio must be included (no silent clips).

• Length: Between 3 seconds and 30 seconds long.

• Resolution: At least 1280 x 720 vertical HD.

• The Rules:

  • No watermarks (keep those TikTok, CapCut, or Instagram logos off).

  • No explicit calls-to-action telling people to “buy tickets,” “link in bio,” or go to external sites.

  • Must actually feature you, the creative process, or the music.

Heads Up: If your clips include profanity or mature themes, make sure to mark the video as explicit in the dashboard so it doesn’t get flagged later.

Step-by-Step: How to Set Up Your Spotify Countdown Page

Before you start, make sure your release is locked in with your distributor (like DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby, etc.) and has already been delivered to Spotify. Once your upcoming release shows up in your dashboard, you are ready to roll.

Step 1: Open Spotify for Artists

Log into your account on desktop or mobile, head over to the Music tab, and click on Upcoming. Select the project you want to build the page for.

Step 2: Fire Up the Builder

If your account and release meet Spotify’s requirements, you will see a prompt to Get Started on a Countdown Page. Click it to open up the editor.

Step 3: Drop in Your Video Assets

Upload your vertical video clips. The best stuff to use here usually includes:

• Studio session footage of you laying down vocals or beats.

• Quick iPhone voice-memo rough cuts of the demo.

• A quick talking-head video explaining what the song means to you.

Step 4: Add Merch and Tracklists

If you have merch synced through platforms like Shopify, link it right below the countdown timer so fans can grab a bundle. You can also preview your tracklist so people know what songs are coming.

Step 5: Double-Check and Publish

Review everything one last time to make sure it looks clean and follows the guidelines, then hit Publish. Don’t worry—if you film a better video next week, you can easily swap out or update your clips anytime before the release date hits.