Getting your music featured within a playlist is one of the best ways of securing genuine streams. Listeners will often rely on large playlists to help them discover new sounds and artists.
Playlists have become one of the most important ways people discover new music. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube have millions of users who rely on playlists to find their next favourite song. Playlists are beneficial for artists and listeners.
As an artist, getting your music featured on these playlists can significantly boost your visibility and help you reach a wider audience. Here’s how you can leverage playlists for music discovery and increase your chances of getting featured.
Why playlists matter
Reach a larger audience
Playlists are often followed by thousands or even millions of listeners. Being included in a popular playlist can expose your music to a vast audience who might not have discovered it otherwise. Simply, they help you reach new listeners.
Increase streams and revenue
More plays mean more streams, which translates to more revenue. Playlists can help increase your streaming numbers, leading to higher earnings from platforms like Spotify and Apple Music. It can be hard earning enough to make a living as an independent artist.
Build credibility
Getting featured on well-known playlists can enhance your credibility as an artist. It signals to listeners and industry professionals that your music is worth paying attention to. The more streams your tracks have (legitimate streams), the more likely people are to listen.
Types of playlists
Editorial playlists
These are curated by the music platform’s staff. Examples include Spotify’s “RapCaviar” or Apple Music’s “Today’s Hits.” Being featured on these playlists can provide a massive boost, but they are also highly competitive.
Algorithmic playlists
These are generated by algorithms based on listener habits. Examples include Spotify’s “Discover Weekly” and “Release Radar.” To get featured, focus on engaging your listeners and encouraging them to save and share your tracks.
User-curated playlists
These playlists are created by individual users or influencers. They can be easier to get featured on and can still provide significant exposure, especially if the curator has a large following. It’s great for networking too.
How to get your music featured
Optimise your profile
Make sure your artist profile is complete and professional. Include high-quality photos, a compelling bio, and links to your social media. A polished profile makes a good impression on playlist curators. It makes you look like a successful artist.
Release high-quality music
Focus on producing great music with high production values. Curators want to feature songs that sound professional and resonate with their audience. Remember quality over quantity. The better produced your music, the better chance of playlisting.
Promote your music
Share your music on social media, engage with your fans, and encourage them to add your songs to their playlists. The more engagement your music gets, the more likely it is to be noticed by curators. Network through social media too. Reach new audiences.
Submit to playlists
Many platforms allow you to submit your music for playlist consideration. For example, Spotify for Artists has a feature where you can pitch your unreleased songs to their editorial team. Take advantage of these submission tools.
Network with curators
Build relationships with playlist curators by engaging with them on social media and attending industry events. A personal connection can sometimes make the difference in getting your music featured. You boost their work, and they boost yours.
Use playlist promotion services
There are services that specialise in helping artists get placed on playlists. Be cautious and do your research to ensure you’re working with a reputable service. Otherwise, you could end up on a fraud streaming list, and your music will be removed from stores.
Leverage your existing network
Ask friends, family, and fans to add your songs to their playlists. The more playlists your song appears on, the more likely it is to be picked up by larger, more influential playlists. Plus, your song will be played when they listen to their favourite playlists.
Keeping the momentum
Keep releasing music
Regularly releasing new music keeps your profile active and increases your chances of being featured on playlists. Consistency is key to maintaining and growing your presence. Quality obviously comes first, but don’t fall off the radar.
Engage with your audience
Respond to comments, thank your fans for their support, and keep them updated on your new releases. Engaged fans are more likely to support your music and share it with others. When they feel appreciated, they’re more likely to become a loyal supporter.
Monitor your analytics
Use the analytics tools provided by platforms like Spotify for Artists and Apple Music for Artists to understand how your music is performing. This data can help you refine your strategies and improve your chances of getting featured.
Playlists play a crucial role in music discovery today. By optimising your profile, producing high-quality music, and actively promoting your work, you can increase your chances of getting featured on influential playlists. Stay consistent, and support others.
