How to Submit Music to Spotify Playlists: A Guide for Aspiring Artists

In the dynamic landscape of music distribution, Spotify has emerged as a leading platform for music lovers worldwide. One of the most effective ways for artists to reach a wider audience is by submitting their music to Spotify playlists. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to do so, offering various perspectives from experienced musicians and music industry insiders.

1. Understanding Spotify Playlists

Before submitting your music, it’s essential to understand the vast array of Spotify playlists. From genre-specific lists to algorithm-driven discovery playlists, there are numerous opportunities for exposure. Researching popular playlists can help you identify the best fit for your music.

2. Crafting an Impressionable Submission

When submitting your music, make a strong first impression. Ensure your submission email is professional and highlights your music’s unique qualities. Include a clear track title, a brief bio, and high-quality artwork. Customizing your submission for specific playlists can increase your chances of being accepted.

3. Timing Your Submission

Timing is crucial. Consider the season, current trends, and even the specific playlist’s recent updates before submitting your music. For instance, if a playlist focuses on summer bangers, submit your upbeat summer tracks during the summer season.

4. Leveraging Social Media and Influencers

Use social media platforms and influencers to your advantage. Share your music on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, and encourage fans and followers to engage with your tracks on Spotify. Partnering with influencers who share your music on their networks can increase your chances of being discovered by Spotify playlist editors.

5. Building a Consistent Catalog

While submitting music to playlists is a great way to gain exposure, it’s vital to have a consistent catalog of music for fans to engage with. Regularly release new music and ensure your tracks are of high quality, as this will keep your fans engaged and increase your chances of being added to various playlists.

6. Leveraging Spotify for Artists (SFA)

Spotify offers an artist portal called Spotify for Artists (SFA) that helps you manage your presence on the platform. You can use SFA to distribute your music, see listener activity, and connect with fans directly. This tool also provides insights that can help you understand how your music is being received and where you might need to focus your efforts.

What To Expect After Submission

After submitting your music to Spotify playlists, you should expect a response within a reasonable timeframe. While some playlist editors may accept your track immediately, others might take longer due to the volume of submissions they receive or the specific criteria they follow for playlist curation. Keep promoting your music across different platforms and stay engaged with your fans even after submission.

FAQs

Q: What are the most popular Spotify playlists? A: Some of the most popular Spotify playlists include Discovery Weekly, Viral Chart Toppers, New Music Fridays, etc. These playlists receive high listener engagement and are great for exposure.

Q: How often should I submit my music to Spotify playlists? A: It depends on how active you are on Spotify and how often you release new music. Regularly submitting new tracks to relevant playlists can increase your exposure. But be cautious not to overspam playlist editors with frequent submissions as it might have a negative impact on your chances of being accepted.

Q: How do I know if my music was added to a playlist? A: You will receive notifications from Spotify if your track is added to a playlist or if any changes occur with the tracks on their playlist, like if they replace your track or delete it temporarily for other reasons (such as it’s in their backlog for review). Additionally, you can always check the Spotify playlist directly to see if your track is there.