Getting your music featured on Spotify editorial playlists can be a game- changer for any artist. Editorial playlists are hand-curated by Spotify’s editorial team and they have the power to boost your streams, attract new listeners, and elevate your music career. So, how can you improve your chances of being included? Here are the top strategies that can help you land on Spotify editorial playlists and stand out from the crowd.
Understand Spotify Editorial Playlists and Their Importance
Before diving into the strategies, it’s important to know what editorial playlists are and why they matter. Spotify has hundreds of playlists curated by its editorial team. These playlists are based on genres, moods, and occasions. Being featured on a popular playlist can expose your music to millions of potential listeners, driving significant engagement. For instance, being added to playlists like “New Music Friday” or “RapCaviar” can drastically increase your monthly listeners and followers.
Build a Strong Artist Profile
Your artist profile is often the first impression potential listeners get of your music. To increase your chances of getting noticed by Spotify curators, ensure that your profile is well-maintained and engaging. Include a clear and professional artist bio, high-quality photos, and links to your social media accounts. Make sure that your Spotify profile reflects your music genre and style accurately. Having a professional presence on Spotify can make it easier for curators to see you as a serious artist and consider you for their playlists.
Submit Your Music via Spotify for Artists
Spotify for Artists is a powerful tool that allows you to submit your tracks directly to Spotify’s editorial team. Submitting your music through Spotify for Artists gives you the best chance of getting noticed by curators. When submitting, make sure to provide all the relevant information such as your genre, mood, and influences. The more detailed and thoughtful your submission is, the more likely it is that curators will take it seriously. Submit your track at least 7 days before its release to give curators ample time to review it.
Use Spotify’s Release Radar and Discover Weekly
Spotify offers two key features to help users discover new music: Release Radar and Discover Weekly. While these are not editorial playlists, they serve as great platforms to get your music noticed by a broader audience. To maximize the chances of your music being added to these playlists, ensure that you promote your music regularly through your social media channels and engage with your followers. The more engagement your track receives, the higher the chances of it being picked up by the algorithm for Release Radar and Discover Weekly.
Network and Connect with Curators
Building relationships with Spotify curators and influencers can be a great way to get your music noticed. While it’s not always easy to directly contact Spotify editorial curators, you can start by connecting with independent playlist curators and music influencers. Many of them have a direct line to Spotify’s editorial team, and a positive relationship can lead to your music being recommended for larger editorial playlists. Networking at music industry events or online can also help you grow your connections in the Spotify community.
Promote Your Music Outside of Spotify
Promoting your music outside of Spotify is just as important as promoting it on the platform itself. Spotify curators look for artists who have a strong fan base and social media presence. Make sure to promote your music on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Facebook. Share engaging content, behind-the- scenes footage, and interact with your audience to build a strong online presence. The more buzz you create around your music, the more likely Spotify curators will take notice and feature your tracks on editorial playlists.
Create High-Quality and Consistent Music
One of the most effective ways to get noticed by Spotify’s editorial team is by creating high-quality music that resonates with listeners. While it’s essential to focus on quality, consistency is also key. Regularly releasing new music, whether it’s singles, EPs, or albums, keeps your profile active and shows curators that you’re serious about your craft. Spotify’s editorial team typically gravitates toward artists who have a consistent output of quality music, as this shows commitment and professionalism.
Engage with Fans and Encourage Playlist Adds
Engagement with your fans is crucial when trying to get noticed by Spotify curators. Encourage your followers to add your songs to their personal playlists, share your tracks on social media, and engage in conversations about your music. The more engagement your songs receive, the more likely they are to be picked up by Spotify’s algorithms. You can also ask your fans to follow you on Spotify and share your music with their networks. The organic growth of your following can help you get noticed by curators.
Monitor Your Analytics and Adjust Strategies
Spotify for Artists provides in-depth analytics that can help you understand how your music is performing. Pay attention to metrics like streams, listeners, and playlist placements. By monitoring these analytics, you can adjust your promotional strategies to improve your chances of being featured on editorial playlists. If you notice that your tracks are doing well on smaller playlists, try reaching out to curators for more playlist opportunities. Analytics can provide valuable insight into what’s working and what needs improvement.
Be Patient and Stay Persistent
Getting your music on Spotify editorial playlists is not something that happens overnight. It can take time and persistence. Continue creating great music, engaging with your audience, and submitting your tracks to Spotify. It’s important to remain patient and stay motivated, even if you don’t get on a major editorial playlist immediately. Consistency and perseverance will pay off in the long run. Many artists get their first editorial playlist placement after years of hard work, so don’t get discouraged.
Final Thoughts
Getting your music on Spotify editorial playlists requires a mix of strategic planning, quality content, and consistent effort. By understanding the importance of your artist profile, utilizing Spotify for Artists, and promoting your music both on and off the platform, you increase your chances of landing on these influential playlists. Focus on building a strong connection with your audience, consistently creating great music, and networking with industry professionals. With patience and persistence, you can see your music reach a wider audience and propel your career to new heights.