Getting your music featured on playlists can introduce your tracks to new listeners and help grow your audience. For independent artists, learning how to pitch music to playlists can therefore be a valuable part of a wider music promotion strategy.
While playlist placement is never guaranteed, there are several ways to give your music the best possible chance.
Pitch your music through Spotify for Artists
If you’re releasing music on Spotify, Spotify for Artists should be one of your first stops.
Eligible unreleased tracks can be submitted for editorial playlist consideration before release. When submitting your music, provide accurate information about the track, including its genre, style and other relevant details.
Give yourself plenty of time. Avoid leaving your Spotify playlist submission until the last minute.
Find independent playlist curators
Spotify’s own playlists aren’t your only option. Independent curators run thousands of playlists covering different genres, moods and communities.
Research playlists that genuinely suit your music. A carefully selected smaller playlist could be more valuable than contacting a large curator whose audience has little interest in your genre.
Look for submission details on the curator’s website or social media profiles and always follow their instructions.
Write a personalised playlist pitch
Avoid sending the same generic message to every curator.
Keep your music playlist pitch short and explain who you are, what the track is about and why you think it suits their playlist.
Make it easy for the curator to listen by including a direct link or music Smart Link.
Avoid guaranteed playlist placements
Be cautious of anyone promising guaranteed streams or playlist placements in exchange for money.
Artificial streams and suspicious promotion aren’t the foundations of a genuine fanbase. Focus instead on legitimate music promotion and playlists with real, engaged listeners.
Keep promoting your music
Playlist pitching should only be one part of your release strategy.
Promote your track through social media, short-form videos, Smart Links, live performances and your existing audience. Even if your first few playlist pitches aren’t successful, building relationships with curators and consistently releasing music can create more opportunities over time.
The goal isn’t simply to get on playlists. It’s to use playlist promotion to help the right listeners discover your music and become genuine fans.
