Spotify’s editors build playlists that can introduce your music to listeners who have never heard of you. The only official way to reach them is a free pitch through Spotify for Artists. It costs nothing, but timing and detail matter. Here’s how to do it properly.
Quick answer
- Pitch through Spotify for Artists. It’s free, and no one can sell you a guaranteed placement.
- Pitch at least 7 days before release. Earlier is better.
- You can pitch one unreleased song at a time.
- Pitching on time also puts your song in your followers’ Release Radar.
Before you can pitch
- Your song must be delivered to Spotify with a future release date. That’s why we recommend uploading to Interfine 2–3 weeks ahead.
- You need access to your artist profile in Spotify for Artists.
- You must be the main artist. Songs where you’re only featured, and compilations, can’t be pitched.
Step by step
- Open Spotify for Artists and go to Music → Upcoming.
- Choose the release and select Pitch a song.
- Fill in every field: genre, sub-genre, moods, styles, instruments, language and your city or region.
- Write a short description (see below) and submit.
- Plan your release-week promotion while you wait.
What to write in your pitch
Editors read many pitches, so be clear and specific. Answer three things:
- The song: what it sounds like and what it’s about, in one or two sentences.
- The story: anything that makes it stand out, such as a producer, a feature, a cultural moment or a local trend.
- The plan: what you’re doing to promote it, like a music video, TikTok campaign, radio or shows.
Example: “An Amapiano-Afrohouse love song in English and Zulu, produced by [producer]. The video premieres on YouTube on release day, we’re running a TikTok dance challenge with 20 creators, and the song is on rotation on [station] in Johannesburg.”
Mistakes to avoid
- Pitching on release week. Under 7 days and you miss Release Radar.
- Leaving tags empty. More detail helps editors place your song.
- Paying for “guaranteed Spotify playlists”. Fake or bot playlists can get your music removed.
- Changing your artist name between releases, which splits your profile.
If you don’t get playlisted
Most pitched songs don’t land an editorial playlist, and that’s normal. Keep releasing, keep pitching every single, and grow the signals editors notice: saves, follows and repeat listens. Spotify’s algorithmic playlists respond to real fan activity too.
The short version
Ready to release your music?
Interfine Music delivers your songs to Spotify, Apple Music, Boomplay, Audiomack, TikTok and 200+ platforms for $12 a year. Pay by M-Pesa or card, and get support on WhatsApp.
Create your accountWhatsApp +254 791 393 533Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I pitch to Spotify?
At least 7 days before release, according to Spotify. Two to three weeks is safer.
Does pitching guarantee a playlist placement?
No. Editors choose what to add. Pitching on time does put your song in your followers’ Release Radar.
Can I pay to get on Spotify editorial playlists?
No. Editorial pitching is free through Spotify for Artists. Avoid anyone selling guaranteed placements.
About the author
Anaya Zawadi is the Content Manager at Interfine Music, the Africa-first music distributor founded in Nairobi in 2024. She writes practical guides that help independent African artists release, protect and earn from their music.
