How to Write an Effective Spotify Pitch

Spotify’s editorial pitch is the single best free shot at human-curated playlist exposure — but editors see thousands of submissions, so clarity, accuracy and a concrete promo plan matter more than hype. Submit early (Spotify’s minimum is 7 days before release, though many pros aim 2–3+ weeks to avoid distributor delays) and use the pitch field strategically (concise + specific).

Top tips

1. Submit early — ideally earlier than 7 days. Spotify asks for ≥7 days but distributors and editors appreciate more lead time, so aim 2–3 weeks if possible.

2. Pitch only unreleased tracks — one at a time. Pick the single track that best fits editorial playlists you want.

3. Use accurate metadata (genre / mood / instruments / language). Editors and Spotify’s systems use those tags — fill every field precisely.

4. Hook in the first line: sound + mood + playlist fit. Start with a short phrase like “Atmospheric indie-pop; warm late-night mood — fits ‘Evening Acoustic’.” Editors scan fast; lead with fit.

5. Say who it’s for and where it should land (audience + territories). Be specific: e.g., “UK/US university students, fans of X & Y.” That helps editors place the track.

6. Include a concrete promotion plan — actions, dates, and assets. Mention video, playlists you’ll pitch, press/PR, ad spend, radio or tour dates. Editors favor pitches that show you’ll drive momentum.

7. Be concise — the pitch field is short (≈500 characters). No long bios or vague adjectives; give concrete listening cues, similar artists, and promo bullets.

8. Optimize your artist profile and assets first. Complete bio, good photos/cover art, Canvas, and Artist Pick — curators check profiles. Also ensure your audio is professionally mixed & mastered.

9. Don’t lie or overclaim — editors can and do check socials & press. Honest, specific, verifiable claims (e.g., “video on release day,” “press feature on X outlet scheduled”) are stronger than generic superlatives.

Quick pitch templates (fit a 500-char field)

Short structure to follow: [Genre + mood] — [2 quick sonic cues / similar artists] — [1 promo sentence: what you’ll do / where you’ll push it].

Example A (general):“Indie-pop, late-night & cinematic — warm synths, slow-build chorus (fans of The 1975 / CHVRCHES). Releasing 2025-10-24 with a music video; press outreach to 3 blogs, targeted ads in US/UK, and campus-radio promos during release week.”

Example B (reggae-flavored):“Modern reggae fusion — laidback riddim, horns + soulful lead; fits ‘Reggae Right Now’ and ‘Laid Back’ playlists (fans of Protoje / Chronixx). Official video + IG reels on release; playlist push, regional radio in Costa Rica & Spain.”

(Keep counts tight — first sentence hooks; second sentence proves promotion.)

Pre-submit checklist (2-minute run)

• Release uploaded and visible under Upcoming in Spotify for Artists.

• All metadata filled (genre, mood, instruments, language).

• Short pitch written (≤500 chars): genre → sonic cues → promo plan → target playlists/territories.

• Artist profile optimized (bio, Canvas, images).

• Promo assets scheduled (video, socials, press, ads) and dates included in pitch.

  
  

What most artists miss

Most pitches fail not because the song is bad, but because the pitch is forgettable or vague. Treat the pitch like a 15-second radio ad: name the mood, the closest reference points, and show that you’ll push the release — that combination signals editors you’ll help the track succeed.

How to Write an Effective Spotify Pitch (Step by Step)

1. Start with the sound (hook them fast).

   • Genre + mood + 1–2 sonic cues.

   • Name 1–2 similar artists (realistic, not huge exaggerations).

2. Add a short creation story.

   • 1 sentence on inspiration, vibe, or unique process.

   • Keep it human, authentic, and easy to understand.

3. Show the promotion plan.

   • Mention concrete actions: video, PR/blogs, ads, radio, tour dates, etc.

   • Be specific (“IG reels campaign + PR in Spain and Costa Rica”) instead of vague (“we’ll promote a lot”).

4. Think playlist fit.

   • Imply which playlists it belongs in by describing the mood (e.g. “late-night chill reggae,” “energetic summer vibe”).

5. Be concise and professional.

   • No filler, no hype words like “the best,” “amazing,” “next big hit.”

   • Editors want clarity, not marketing fluff.

6. Balance your text.

   • Roughly: 40% sound description + 30% creation story + 30% promo plan.

7. Check the length.

   • Keep it under the 500-character limit (aim for 3 short sentences).

✅ Formula to follow:[Sound identity] + [Creation story] + [Promo plan / momentum]

Getting playlisted isn’t about luck — it’s about presenting your music clearly, authentically, and with a plan. If you apply these tips to your next pitch, you’ll stand out from the thousands of submissions editors receive every week. Stay consistent, keep refining your sound, and give each release the best shot possible. I wish you success on your journey and hope these insights help you land your next playlist feature.

Best regards, Costa Rebel