1. Single
Tracks: 1-2 songs
Purpose: Promote an upcoming album/EP or stand-alone release
Typical Length: Under 10 minutes
Example: Taylor Swift's "Anti-Hero" (1 song) or BTS's "Butter" (title track + instrumental version)
2. Digital Single
Tracks: 1-2 songs (no physical release)
Purpose: Quick release for streaming platforms
Example: Olivia Rodrigo's "vampire" (pre-album digital single)
3. Double A-Side Single
Tracks: 2 main songs (both treated as equal lead tracks)
Common In: J-Pop/K-Pop (e.g., TWICE's *"TT" + "1 to 10")
4. EP (Extended Play)
Tracks: 3-6 songs
Runtime: 15-30 minutes
Purpose: Smaller project between singles and albums
Example: Billie Eilish's "Don't Smile at Me" (7 songs, 26 min)
5. Mini Album (Common in K-Pop/J-Pop)
Tracks: 4-7 songs
Runtime: 20-30 minutes
Difference from EP: More cohesive theme, often treated as a "small album"
Example: NewJeans' "Get Up" (6 songs, 12 min)
6. LP (Album / Full-Length Album)
Tracks: 7+ songs (usually 10-15)
Runtime: 30+ minutes
Purpose: Major artistic statement
Subtypes:
Studio Album: Original material (e.g., "1989" by Taylor Swift)
Concept Album: Thematic unity (e.g., "The Wall" by Pink Floyd)
Soundtrack Album: For films/TV (e.g., "Black Panther: The Album")
7. Double Album
Tracks: 15+ songs (spread across 2 discs/vinyls)
Example: Kendrick Lamar's "Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers" (18 tracks)
8. Compilation Album
Content: Previously released songs (greatest hits, remixes, etc.)
Example: "The Essential Michael Jackson"
9. Live Album
Content: Recorded concert performances
Example: Nirvana's "MTV Unplugged in New York"
10. Reissue / Deluxe Edition
Content: Original album + bonus tracks/remixes
Example: Adele's "25" (Deluxe Edition with 3 extra songs)