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5.7 How can I get an Official Artist Channel on YouTube?

Learn which requirements you need to meet to apply for an Official Artist Channel (OAC) on YouTube.

Updated over a week ago

Qualification for application:

To qualify for an Official Artist Channel (OAC), the following conditions must be met:

  1. You own and operate a YouTube channel (O&O channel) for an artist or band, with content primarily focused on music.

  2. You have at least one official music release on YouTube that has been distributed through a music distributor or label.

    1. When you distribute music through a distributor or label (as mentioned in the criteria), YouTube automatically generates "Art Tracks" (videos consisting of the audio and the album art). These tracks are housed on a Topic Channel (e.g., "Artist Name - Topic").

  3. Your channel complies with all YouTube policies, including Community Guidelines, Terms of Service, and Copyright Policies.

Additionally, at least one of the following criteria must apply:

  • You work with a YouTube Partner Manager.

  • You participate in the YouTube Partner Program (YPP).

  • Your channel is part of a label network that collaborates with a Partner Manager.

  • Your music is distributed through a music partner listed in the YouTube Services Directory for Music Partners.

Request Process:

  • Once all criteria are met, you can submit your OAC request to us. Share the following information when submitting your request:

    1. Link to your own & operated channel ( O&O Channel )

    2. Link to your topic channel (Topic Channel )

  • YouTube typically takes up to 4 weeks to process the application. In some cases, the activation may take several months.

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