How do I get my music on editorial playlists without a label?
Q&A
Feb 2, 2026
To get on editorial playlists without a label, submit your unreleased music directly through Spotify for Artists at least 7 days before your release date, making sure your track has polished production quality and accurate genre metadata that matches the playlists you're targeting. I've found that editorial curators prioritize tracks with existing momentum, so I always build pre-save campaigns and pitch to independent playlist curators simultaneously to show traction before my release goes live. The submission is free and goes straight to Spotify's editorial team, giving independent artists the same access that labels have.
At Futureproof Music School, I teach you how to build complete release strategies that maximize your editorial playlist chances, from production polish to metadata optimization. Kadence (Futureproof's AI music coach) helps ensure your tracks meet professional standards before you hit submit, while our mentors guide you through the promotional tactics that get curators' attention.
How far in advance should I submit my music to Spotify editorial playlists?
I recommend submitting at least 2-3 weeks before your release date through Spotify for Artists, since editors review submissions well in advance and won't consider tracks that are already out.
What should I include in my Spotify editorial playlist pitch?
I always write a concise pitch focusing on the song's mood, story, and specific playlist fit rather than generic hype. I cover exactly how to write compelling pitches in my Futureproof Music School course.
Can I pitch the same track to multiple editorial playlists at once?
I only get one submission per release through Spotify for Artists, so I pick the single most relevant playlist and make my pitch count.
Founder of Futureproof Music School with 20+ years in music technology and education. John combines technical expertise with a passion for empowering the next generation of producers.