How Do I Get Featured on Apple Music’s Genre-Specific Playlists

Apple Music : https://music.apple.com/us/artist/stephen-allen-music/1092692557

 Why Genre Playlists Are Powerful

  • Curated by Apple’s global editorial team
  • Highly trusted by fans who follow the genre
  • Frequently updated (weekly or bi-weekly), meaning ongoing chances
  • Often the first step to getting noticed for global flagship playlists


 Top Genre-Specific Playlists to Know

Genre

Playlist Examples

Hip-Hop/Rap

Rap Life, New in Hip-Hop

R&B

R&B Now, Brown Sugar, Breaking R&B

Afrobeats

Africa Now, Afrobeats Hits, Africa Rising

Pop

Today’s Hits, New in Pop

Electronic/Dance

New in Dance, Trance & Progressive

Regional/World

Éxitos Mexico, UK Rap, Soulection



 How to Increase Your Chances of Being Featured

  1. Submit Early via Your Distributor
    • Distribute at least 3–4 weeks ahead of release
    • Use the pitching tool (if your distributor supports it)
    • Highlight genre, mood, lyrics, and marketing plan in the pitch
  2. Match the Playlist’s Sound & Style
    • Listen to target playlists regularly
    • Make sure your production, mix, and tone fit their aesthetic
  3. Create Momentum Independently
    • Drive early pre-adds, Shazams, and saves
    • Promote on social media and tag Apple Music and playlist editors
    • Build your fan base before and after release
  4. Use Accurate Metadata & Genres
    • Label your release with the correct primary genre
    • Don’t tag “Hip-Hop” if it’s actually Afrobeats or R&B


 Avoid These Mistakes

  • Submitting too late (after release = less visibility)
  • Misrepresenting your genre/style
  • Ignoring Apple Music editorial trends or pitch requirements


 Pro Tip:

Get your fans to Shazam your music and save it early. Editors monitor signals like Shazam spikes to decide what to feature next.

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