How do I use playlists to grow my songwriting audience?

Why Playlists Matter

Playlists are one of the most powerful discovery tools in music. Whether you're a performing songwriter or pitching demos, getting your songs on playlists can lead to:

• More streams
• New fans and followers
• More collaboration opportunities
• Better search engine visibility

 Two Main Playlist Strategies

1. Get Songs You’ve Written Onto Existing Playlists

If you’ve released music as an artist or worked with one:

• Submit to Spotify for Artists (editorial + algorithmic playlists)
• Use SubmitHub, Groover, or Playlist Push for curator playlists
• Focus on niche and mood-based playlists (e.g., Sad R&B Hooks, Indie Love Songs)

 Pro Tip: Ask artists you’ve written for to tag you in the songwriting credits and submit the song via their artist profile.

2. Curate Your Own Playlists

Create and share public playlists on:

• Spotify
• YouTube
• Apple Music

Your playlists can feature:

• Songs you’ve written or co-written
• Other writers you admire
• Songs in your style (“Songs I Wish I Wrote”)

 Include yourself in themed playlists like:

• “Underrated R&B Hooks”
• “Mood: Writing at Midnight”
• “Songs That Tell a Story”

Promote your playlists on TikTok, IG Reels, and your email list.

 Boost Visibility with SEO

• Title playlists with searchable keywords
• Add detailed descriptions (include moods, themes, genres)
• Use relevant tags and metadata

 Network Through Playlists

• DM curators with polite, personalized messages
• Offer to share their playlists in exchange for a spot
• Collaborate with other creators to build shared playlists

 Takeaway:

Playlists are a low-cost, high-impact way to showcase your songwriting and grow your reach. Whether you’re featured or curating, they help put your songs—and your name—in front of the right listeners.