Getting your music featured on Spotify’s editorial playlists can be a game-changer for any artist’s career. Let me walk you through the most effective strategies I’ve seen work for independent artists and labels alike.
Submit Through Spotify for Artists
The most direct route to editorial playlist consideration starts with your Spotify for Artists account. You’ll need to submit your unreleased music at least 7 days before the release date – though I always recommend giving yourself a 3-4 week buffer to maximize your chances. When submitting, be incredibly detailed about your track’s characteristics, mood, and instruments. Think of it like teaching Spotify’s algorithm to truly understand your music.
Build Your Story First
Here’s something many artists miss: playlist editors aren’t just looking for great music – they’re looking for great stories. Before you even submit, make sure you’re actively growing your monthly listeners and follower count. Create buzz around your release through social media, press coverage, or live performances. Editors want to see momentum.
Perfect Your Profile
Your Spotify profile needs to look professional and active. I always tell artists to think of it as their musical storefront:
– Upload a high-quality profile photo
– Write an engaging bio
– Keep your artist picks updated
– Create and maintain your own playlists
– Cross-promote your Spotify presence on other platforms
Engage With Your Analytics
The data in your Spotify for Artists dashboard isn’t just numbers – it’s your roadmap to playlist success. Pay attention to:
– Which songs perform best in which regions
– What times of day your listeners are most active
– Which playlists are already featuring your music
– How listeners discover your tracks
Build Playlist Relationships
Start small and work your way up. Getting featured on smaller, user-generated playlists can create a ripple effect that catches editorial attention. Engage with playlist curators authentically – don’t just spam them with links to your music. Share their playlists, comment on their selections, and build genuine connections.
Time Your Release Strategy
Here’s an insider tip: Friday releases typically have the highest competition for playlist spots. Consider releasing on a different day to stand out. Also, maintain a consistent release schedule – editors are more likely to notice artists who regularly put out quality content.
Remember, getting on editorial playlists isn’t just about having great music – though that’s certainly essential. It’s about creating a comprehensive strategy that shows Spotify you’re serious about your career and have the potential to engage their audience. Keep refining your approach, stay patient, and focus on building genuine connections with your listeners. That’s what ultimately catches an editor’s eye.
