Spotify is one of the leading platforms for music streaming, and getting your music featured on Spotify playlists can significantly boost your career as an artist. Whether you’re an emerging artist or a seasoned musician, understanding how to post your own music on Spotify and get included in playlists is essential. This article will guide you through the steps to achieve that.
Spotify playlists are curated collections of songs that cater to various moods, genres, and activities. They are created by Spotify's editorial team, independent curators, and even the listeners themselves. Being featured on a popular playlist can expose your music to millions of listeners who might not have discovered it otherwise. This can lead to increased streams, more followers, and higher chances of your music being shared. In short, it's one of the best ways to promote your music.
Before you can get your music on playlists, you first need to have it uploaded to Spotify. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to post your own music on Spotify:
Spotify doesn’t allow direct uploads from artists; you need a music distributor to get your tracks on the platform. Some popular choices include TuneCore, CD Baby, ONErpm, and Amuse. However, if you want a robust option that integrates with TikTok for greater organic reach, consider SoundOn.
Once you've chosen a distributor, you'll need to create an account on their platform. Follow their instructions to upload your music files, album artwork, and metadata. Accuracy here is key, as any errors could delay your release.
Plan your release date carefully. This allows you to have time to pitch your music to playlist curators and build anticipation among your audience.
Submit your music for distribution through your chosen distributor. They will handle submitting your tracks to Spotify and other streaming platforms.
Once your music is available on Spotify, the next step is getting it onto playlists. Here’s how you can do it:
Spotify for Artists gives you access to valuable data about your music and listeners. Once your music is uploaded to Spotify, claim your profile on Spotify for Artists to get verified. Verification adds credibility and allows you to pitch your upcoming releases directly to Spotify's editorial team.
Use Spotify for Artists to pitch your music to Spotify’s editorial playlists. Each submission requires details about your song, including genre, mood, instruments, and more. The more specific you are, the better your chances of getting noticed by the curators.
Networking is crucial in the music industry. Connect with other artists, producers, and playlist curators. Collaborations can increase your exposure and chances of being added to more playlists.
The more engaged your listeners are, the more likely your music will get picked up by Spotify's algorithmic playlists like Release Radar and Discover Weekly. Share your Spotify links on social media, create engaging content around your music, and encourage fans to add your songs to their personal playlists.
In addition to Spotify’s editorial playlists, there are many independent playlist curators on platforms like SubmitHub. Reach out to them and submit your music for consideration. While it can be time-consuming, it’s a great way to get noticed.
Besides the above steps, here are some additional tips to maximize your chances of success:
No amount of promotion can make up for poorly produced music. Ensure your tracks are professionally recorded, mixed, and mastered to industry standards.
Use social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to build your brand and engage with your audience. Viral content on social media can drive traffic to your Spotify profile.
Ensure your Spotify profile is fully optimized with a compelling bio, high-quality images, and links to your other social media accounts. A professional profile can attract more listeners and curators.
Regularly check your Spotify for Artists data to see how your music is performing. Use the insights to make informed decisions about your music and marketing strategies.
Getting your music on Spotify playlists requires a combination of strategy, networking, and quality music. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can enhance your chances of getting featured on playlists and reaching a wider audience. Remember, persistence is key, and every small success can lead to bigger opportunities.
For artists looking to streamline their distribution and marketing efforts, consider signing up with SoundOn. With its unique integration with TikTok and exclusive partners, it provides a comprehensive platform to promote your music and grow your fanbase.