What does it mean when a record is shelved?

Question

Well?

Answer 1

It means that a record company is not confident in how well the record will perform in the marketplace so they hold onto it before releasing it.  Sometimes months, sometimes years.  

It could also be due to some contractual issue, or problems with rights.

They're not always right about the quality of the album - but usually there is something wrong with it.

Answer 2

MEANS IT WASN'T WELL RECEIVED OR LIKED SO IT WAS PUT ON SHELF--NOT TO BE USED