How to Pitch Your Song to Spotify Playlists

With Spotify for Artists you can submit a song that isn't out yet to Spotify's playlist editors. That's called pitching. A playlist spot isn't guaranteed, but if you're on time, your song also lands in your followers' Release Radar. Here's how to do it.

What you need

• Access to Spotify for Artists. According to Spotify, anyone with Admin or Editor access can pitch. No access yet? Read how to claim Spotify for Artists.
• A song that isn't out yet. According to Spotify, you can only pitch new, original music. You can't pitch compilations or songs you're only a featured artist on.

Step 1: get your release ready in time

Deliver your release to your distributor well in advance. You can only pitch a song once it shows up among your upcoming releases in Spotify for Artists.

Step 2: pitch at least 7 days before release

Spotify asks you to pitch at least 7 days before the release date, so the editors have time to listen. The earlier, the more time they have. A plan for the weeks before your release is in release plan: the 4 weeks before your release.

Step 3: pick your song

According to Spotify, you go to the Music tab in Spotify for Artists and then to Upcoming. That's where you pick the song. You can only pitch one song at a time. Releasing an EP or album? Pick the song you believe in most.

Step 4: fill everything in

According to Spotify, more detail gives your song a better chance. So fill in everything that's asked and be specific. Describe honestly what the song sounds like and what it's about. Generic words like "fire" or "different" don't tell an editor much.

Release Radar

If you pitch at least 7 days before release, your song will land on your followers' Release Radar, according to Spotify. So even if it doesn't make an editorial playlist, it still helps.

Didn't make a playlist?

According to Spotify, pitching doesn't guarantee placement. So keep promoting yourself too, for example with short videos. Read how to promote your song with short videos.

Common mistakes

• Pitching too late. Less than 7 days before release and you miss Release Radar.
• Filling it in vaguely. The more specific, the better an editor can place your song.
• Picking the wrong song. You can only pitch one at a time.
• Pitching a song you're only featured on. According to Spotify, that's not possible.

Release in the works? Also check your cover art. Still looking for a beat? Browse all beats.

FAQ

How far in advance should I pitch?

According to Spotify, at least 7 days before the release date.

Can I pitch several songs at once?

No. According to Spotify, you can only pitch one song at a time.

Am I guaranteed a playlist spot if I pitch?

No. Pitching doesn't guarantee placement, but pitching on time does put your song on your followers' Release Radar.

Source: Spotify for Artists, Pitching music to playlist editors.