How to apply and access editorial playlists on Spotify, Apple Music and more platforms

If you're planning a release, this will interest you!

We already told you how important they are Editorial playlists, we now guide you through the application process.

Apply to Editorial Playlists

Let's first talk about how to apply, and then let's proceed to apply for your release.

When applying, you should keep in mind 3 super important points that can increase your chances of entering Editorial Playlists:

1. Time for launch.
2. Launch marketing.
3. Artist's career.

1. Apply ahead of time

As we mentioned in What is an Editorial Playlist?, these playlists are curated and updated by humans.

This means that every time an application is submitted, a person must listen to the song to decide if it is selected. The publishers of the platforms receive thousands of releases per day.

If you want to have a better chance of being selected, it's essential that you schedule and ship your release in time. Ideally, you should apply 1 month (or 4 weeks) before the launch date, or at least 15 days before.

For example, if you plan to release a single by August 10, your song must be distributed and submitted by July 10. This way, publishers have time to listen to and analyze your application.

If you apply 1 week early (or less), the publishers will most likely are unable to review the application.

2. Launch marketing campaign

Next, we have another very important point: you must have a marketing campaign for your launch.

This doesn't mean you need to have a giant marketing team behind you, but you should plan more than just release a new single or album. Do the best you can with the resources you have available.

When applying, platforms will want you to talk a little bit about the artist or band, and about the campaign they have prepared to promote the release. Platforms value photos and additional promotional materials.

Your marketing campaign can be comprised of:

• Investment in digital ads (YouTube, Instagram, Spotify).
• A video clip that accompanies the single.
• Radio support.
• Press campaign in mass media.
• Campaigns with influencers.
• Sending gifts to other artists, journalists, curators and references.

The more specific and concrete the detail of the campaign, the better.

You should also have a short biography ready:

Don't write a traditional biography. This is probably the first time the publisher has read about the artist, it's vital that you write something that catches their attention in the midst of so many releases.

• Is there a concept behind the artist or the band? What makes it special?
• Who are your fans?
• Do they have any striking or peculiar stories?
  

If your bio can answer some of these questions in a simple and engaging way, you're good to go. We recommend that the biography should not be longer than 1 paragraph.

3. Career as an artist or band

All artists make applications, at any time in your career, whether emerging or consolidated.

There are playlists with a focus on discovery, with songs by more emerging artists. Other playlists are dedicated to hits, more focused on the catalog of established artists. There are also algorithmic playlists, playlists from decades, musical genres, moods and activities.

That's why publishers mix emerging and established artists in their playlists, so don't worry, it's part of their job to select songs from different artists, regions and genres.

You should keep in mind that If you're serious about your music, so will publishers. That's why it's important that you demonstrate it on networks and platforms.

It is important here to demonstrate professionalism. Regardless of the genre, style, or concept behind the artist or band, you must show that you care about your musical career.

Keep your social media profiles up to date:

• Content to connect with your fans.
  
• Contact information (number, email).
• News about the artist or band.

Your presence on digital platforms:

Use the additional tools offered by the platforms to get your account verified or customize your profile:

• Spotify for Artists
• Apple Music for Artists
• Amazon Music for Artists
• Deezer for Creators
• Synchronize Lyrics in Musixmatch

The job of publishers is to consume music. They feed on your art to create a connection between the platform and the listener. Being selected for an editorial playlist is an important boost to your growth as an artist.

The essence of publishers is their passion for the music industry, so they will consider your commitment to it.

Now yes, to apply for the launch

You already have the precise information about the applications to editorial playlists, the next thing is to complete the application.

Keep in mind that you can only apply for new releases, once you've distributed and programmed it with Random Sounds.

With Random Sounds, you can apply to the following platforms:

• Amazon Music
• Apple Music
• Bandcamp
• Deezer
• Pandora
• Spotify
• SoundCloud
• Tencent
• Tidal
• Yandex

If you are planning a release and want to apply for it, you only have to distribute it with Random Sounds and we will accompany you in the process.

If you want more information, you can talk to an Artist Care representative. Write to us at WhatsApp Or to our email from service to support.

You must do the application on Spotify yourself

To do this, you must have access to Spotify for Artists.

If you already have access, go to the section “Music”. Click on “Upcoming”, and your next releases will come out. Click on “Pitch a Song”,

Spotify will ask you a few questions about your release. Once you have completed all the steps, your application has already been sent to the publishers.

Can't you do this with your current distributor? 👀

Migrate your releases to Random Sounds and we'll help you apply for your next release!

If you need help, you can write to us at WhatsApp or to our email: artistas@sounds.co and an executive from Artists and Labels Relations will advise you.