In music, a single is a song considered strong enough by the artist and record company to be released separately from an
album as well as featuring on the
album. It is often accompanied by several "
B-sides" - usually songs which did not make it onto the
album or
remixes.
In the UK, a single must meet certain criteria:
- A maximum of twenty minutes for each single format, including multimedia content
- A maximum three different tracks for each format
- Each format must contain the featured song
- A maximum of 3 different formats (CD, DVD, 7" vinyl, 12" vinyl, cassette)
Anything which exceeds these requirements is categorised as an EP or an album.