How to Get on Apple Music Playlists: A Guide for Independent Artists

Alex Mitchell-Hardt -

Having a strategy for getting your songs on Apple Music playlists is a must for any serious artist.

With over 93 million subscribers, Apple Music is the 2nd largest streaming platform.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you land a spot on Apple Music playlists and grow your audience.

1. Understand the Types of Playlists

Apple Music offers several types of playlists, each with unique benefits for artists:

  • Editorial Playlists: Curated by Apple Music’s in-house editors, editorial playlists are highly visibility and are genre or mood-specific.
  • Algorithmic Playlists: Personalized playlists like Favorites Mix or New Music Mix are based on user preferences.
  • User-Curated Playlists: Created by individual users or influencers, these playlists can also drive significant engagement.

Your goal should be to target the playlists that align with your style and audience.

2. Claim & Optimize Your Apple Music Artist Profile

A professional and engaging artist profile can significantly increase your chances of being playlisted. Ensure you:

  • Upload high-quality photos and a compelling bio.
  • Link your social media accounts.
  • Keep your discography updated with your latest releases.

See How to Claim Your Apple Music Artist Profile Page for a detailed guide.

4. Submit Your Music to Apple Music Editorial Playlists

Currently, individual artists don't have the ability to pitch their music directly to Apple Music Editorial Playlists.

However, this doesn't mean it's impossible to get your songs reviewed for consideration for Apple Music editorial playlists.

Your best option is to check with your distribution company to see if they are able to pitch your release on your behalf. If your distributor has access to Apple Music Pitch, then you may be in luck.

Of course, getting the attention of the editorial team can also come organically. If you can build enough buzz and streams on your own and manage to get on prominent user-generated playlists this can lead to them finding your music.

Much of the strategy below will focus on this method.

5. Build Momentum Before Your Release

Playlists are more likely to feature songs that are already gaining traction. To create buzz:

  • Promote your "pre-adds": Encourage fans to pre-add your track on Apple Music (similar to Spotify Pre-Saves)
  • Collaborate with influencers: Get your music in front of new audiences through partnerships with social media influencers.
  • Leverage social media ads: Target fans of similar artists to build anticipation.

6. Network with Playlist Curators

While editorial playlists are curated by Apple Music staff, user-curated playlists are managed by individuals who may be more accessible. Use platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn or other social media to connect with playlist curators. Be professional, concise, and respectful when reaching out.

7. Focus on Quality and Consistency

Playlist curators value quality music and consistent releases. To increase your chances:

  • Work on producing professional recordings.
  • Release music consistently to stay relevant in curators’ minds.

8. Promote Your Playlist Feature

Once you’re added to a playlist, maximize the opportunity:

  • Share the playlist on your social media.
  • Encourage your fans to stream and save the playlist.
  • Engage with fans who discover you through the playlist.


1) Today’s Hits
A collection of the latest chart-topping tracks across various genres, curated to keep listeners updated with contemporary music trends.

2) Rap Life
Dedicated to the hottest tracks in hip-hop, this playlist showcases both emerging and established artists in the rap scene.

3) R&B Now
Featuring the latest and greatest in R&B, this playlist highlights soulful tracks from both new and renowned artists.

4) Today’s Country
A selection of contemporary country hits, spotlighting the genre's top artists and rising stars.

5) A-List Pop
Curating the best in pop music, this playlist includes current hits and tracks from pop's biggest names.

6) ¡Dale Play!
The playlist focuses on Latin music and features popular tracks across various Latin genres, celebrating the vibrant and diverse Latin music scene.

These playlists are regularly updated to reflect the latest trends and are widely followed by Apple Music users globally. 

Your Next Steps

Playlist success requires strategy, persistence, and quality music. Optimize your profile, build momentum, and network with curators to improve your chances.

Start implementing these tips and watch your audience grow.

FAQS

1. How to pitch your music to Apple Music playlists?

Apple Music Partners can submit your music for editorial playlist using the Apple Music Pitch User Guide.

If you don't have access to this, you can try to work with your music distributor to get your music pitched.

Ensure your song is pitched at least 10 days in advance of its release, and provide details about the track, such as genre, mood, and the story behind it, to help curators understand your vision.

2. Do I need to pay to get on Apple Music playlists?

No, you don’t need to pay to get on official Apple Music playlists. Editorial playlists are curated based on the quality and relevance of your music. Avoid services that claim to guarantee playlist placements in exchange for money, as they may violate Apple Music’s policies and harm your reputation.

To increase your chances:

  • Release high-quality music consistently.
  • Promote your track effectively before and after its release.
  • Optimize your Apple Music artist profile.
  • Network with curators of user-created playlists.

Building momentum and engaging with your audience makes your music more attractive to playlist curators.

While Apple Music Playlist Promotion is not as widespread as Spotify Playlist Promotion, it's still crucial to your overall marketing plan.

Looking to Promote Your Music?

Try our Spotify Playlist Pitching and TikTok Music Promotion services.