A new track scheduled for release needs to be pitched to streaming curators at least seven days in advance to have any chance of landing on Spotify editorial playlists.
Curators receive a high volume of submissions, so a generic request rarely succeeds. BandLab Sounds has outlined a set of guidelines to improve the odds of securing placement on Spotify, Apple Music, and other platforms.
Seven strategies for playlist pitching
1. Submit before the release date
Editorial teams begin reviewing submissions weeks before a song goes live. Pitching after the release date usually means missing the window entirely.
- Spotify: Submit at least seven days prior. Two to three weeks is preferable.
- Apple Music: Submit at least ten days prior.
- Amazon Music: Submit three to four weeks prior.
- Independent curators: Submit two to four weeks prior.
2. Explain the origin of the track
A standard description fails to distinguish a submission in a crowded inbox. Explain the inspiration and the reason for writing the song.
Replace a generic statement like “This is an indie-pop track about heartbreak” with a specific narrative. For instance: “I wrote this after moving out of the home I shared with my ex. The song is how I felt about packing up memories and knowing there’s no going back.”
Include a brief promotional plan in the pitch. Curators want evidence that the artist is invested in the track’s success. Mentioning plans to run ads or promote the release through Spotify for Artists shows active effort to drive listeners.
3. Define the genre precisely
Labeling a track simply as “Alternative” provides little guidance for a curator. Describing it as “melancholic lo-fi bedroom pop with 90s indie guitar influences” creates a clearer mental picture.
Be honest about the sound. Attempting to force a song into a trendier genre often backfires. It is better to secure a smaller playlist where listeners genuinely connect with the audio.
4. Reference existing playlist content
Curators can tell immediately if an artist has listened to their playlist or is mass-submitting. Name specific tracks on the target list that feel similar to yours and explain why your track fits that context.
Reference the mood or listening scenario the playlist serves. Suggesting a track fits a late-night drive playlist alongside specific artists like Phoebe Bridgers works better than a generic submission.
5. Write a concise pitch
Long, dense paragraphs are easy to skip. Keep the submission brief and scannable. Aim for three short paragraphs using plain language.
Lead with the most compelling detail first, whether that is the story behind the song, the specific placement suggestion, or the promotional push planned. If a curator can grasp the full picture in under a minute, the submission stands a better chance.
6. Maintain a complete artist profile
Curators check profiles before accepting pitches. A well-written bio, compelling photos, and recent releases signal that the artist is active and serious. This matters when a curator decides whether to take a chance on a new name.
7. Consider pitching services
Reaching out to curators individually can feel overwhelming. Services like SubmitHub and Groover connect artists with curators actively looking for new music.
BandLab members should also consider BandLab Opportunities. Applying can lead to playlist pitching campaigns with partners like High Road Publicity.
Playlist pitching is not a guaranteed shortcut to virality, but it is one of the most effective actions an artist can take to ensure a new release gets heard.
What it means
Success relies on preparation and honesty. Artists must align their submission timing with platform rules, write specific narratives about their work, and present a professional profile. Trying to force a song into a genre it does not belong to damages credibility. Using tools like BandLab Opportunities or dedicated pitching services can streamline the process for those without time to contact curators manually.
