Just like every venue has its own rules and quirks, so does every platform, like Spotify, have some distinct traits that can lead to the success or stagnation of musical contributions.
It would be imaginary to propose some form of check-list or sure-fire way of moulding something into the perfect form – and it would definitely not work in favor of the creative spirit.
Still, there are some minor factors than can turn a good and possibly suitable track into a Spotify sweetheart, and we want present to you the ones we know of.
So let’s start with the musical material:
The intro
Obviously, there are numerous opinions on this topic, going into all kinds of different directions. Still, a safe median of all variations of intro-lengths seems to hover around 7 seconds. This is the time it takes the average listener to drop into – our out of – a song. You should try to introduce the gist of a piece of music in about that time.
Mood determination
Especially in times of mood-based-playlisting you should not be afraid of sticking with a certain mood, once you positioned a song within that sphere.
Sometimes an intricate, maybe even low-key piece of music will fit perfectly into a matching playlist, as opposed to tracks that can’t decide on an underlying mood. If you’re aiming for solid playlist placement, keep that in mind.
Well targeted playlist pitching
Before your music will make it into Spotify’s editorial playlists, you’ll need to work your way up through third party playlists that increase your organic reach and help to activate Spotify’s algorithm.
Whether you use services like SubmitHub or Groover to get in touch with independent playlist curators, or reach out to them directly through email or social media, do your homework: Find out which playlists could work for your song and make sure to target only playlists that fit your track.
Solid production awareness
Know your production. Be aware of where in the current music ecosystem your type of production is similarly utilized. Draw subtle comparisons when needed (for example in pitch-situations like mentioned above).
Demonstrating a clear awareness of the localization of your production will underline your artistic certainty while pursuing your musical vision.
Vocal intensity
If you’re working on vocal based music – make sure it’s on par with standards achieved by other well-performing vocal acts.
You can scout specific playlists of current trending vocal artists and engage in A/B tests of quality, clarity and overall vocal richness of production.
Playlist pre-gaming
A little test, very similar to what some people do when mastering songs, is placing a track between other pieces of current music, just listening to the way it meshes or fails to mesh within the musical tapestry.
You should keep an ear on things like volume, dynamics but also vocal presence, if your track is vocal based.
Editorial arguments
Getting ready to pitch a song also means building the story around the music. Make sure you have all your facts straight concerning what’s happening around the project, just like tour dates, press pics, an updated bio, previous achievements and most importantly links to your music.
Artwork influence
Don’t underestimate the necessity of great artwork, especially in times of obvious market saturation.
Your Spotify pic has to pop, meaning really jump out of the dark Spotify environment.
Show the photographer you’re working with how your profile is going to be layouted within the interface. Work on ways to strike attention on this creative platform.
Canvas
Spotify Canvas artworks have been around for quite a while now and are definitely here to stay. We collected a few pointers on why you don’t want to miss out on the opportunities that come with Canvas. Learn more.
We also did a YouTube video on this topic. Check it out here:
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