How to Get Your Music on Spotify Playlists (The Honest Way)

By Omar Meho, 4 November 2026

Know the three types of playlist

• Editorial playlists: curated by Spotify's own editors.
• Algorithmic playlists: personalised for each listener, such as Release Radar, Discover Weekly and radio.
• Independent playlists: made by fans, blogs, labels, DJs and brands.

Most independent artists get their first real playlist traction from algorithmic and independent playlists, not big editorial ones. That's normal.

Start with a great track

Playlists can't save a track that isn't ready. Before you think about promotion, make sure the music is finished, properly mixed and mastered, and stands up next to the tracks already on the playlists you're aiming for. Listen to them side by side and be honest with yourself.

Set up Spotify for Artists

Claim your artist profile on Spotify for Artists. It lets you update your bio and photos, see your stats and, most importantly, pitch unreleased music to Spotify's editors.

Pitch before release day

1. Upload your release to your distributor well in advance. A few weeks is ideal.
2. Once it appears in Spotify for Artists as an upcoming release, pick one track to pitch.
3. Fill in every detail: genre, mood, instruments and the story behind the song.
4. Submit your pitch at least seven days before release, which Spotify recommends so the track can also reach your followers' Release Radar.

Editors receive a huge number of pitches, so don't be disheartened if you don't get picked. Pitch every release anyway.

Feed the algorithm with real listeners

Algorithmic playlists respond to how real people interact with your music. Saves, adds to personal playlists, repeat listens and follows all send good signals. Streams from people who skip after a few seconds don't help.

So the best thing you can do is send real fans to your track:

• Share it on your socials with a short video, not just a link.
• Email your mailing list on release day.
• Ask fans to save it and add it to their own playlists.
• Encourage people to follow your artist profile so they get your future releases.

Approach independent curators properly

Lots of genuine curators run playlists because they love a genre. To approach them:

• Find playlists in your genre that are actively updated.
• Check that the followers look real and engaged.
• Follow any submission instructions they give.
• Send a short, personal message with your track link and why it fits their playlist.
• Thank them if they add you, and share their playlist.

Avoid paid playlist schemes

Paying someone for guaranteed placements or streams is a bad idea. Many of these schemes use bots or fake accounts. Spotify's rules ban artificial streaming, and tracks with fake streams can be removed and your account can be affected. Even when the streams are real, playlists stuffed with random tracks often lead to high skip rates, which can hurt how the algorithm treats your music.

If a service promises you a number of streams, walk away.

Make your own playlists

Create playlists in your genre that mix your tracks with music from artists you love. Keep them updated and share them. It shows your taste, gives fans a reason to follow you and can introduce your tracks to new listeners.

Work with labels and DJs

Releasing on a label in your genre can give you access to their playlists and audience. If you're thinking about it, read my guide on how to send a demo to a record label. DJs who play your tracks in mixes help too, as they bring your music to new ears.

Release consistently

One release rarely changes everything. Regular releases give you more chances to pitch, keep your followers engaged and build momentum over time. Focus on making great music, building real fans and being patient. That's what lasts.