How to get on Apple Music playlists: a step-by-step guide

Securing a spot on an Apple Music playlist can skyrocket your music’s reach, connecting you with millions of listeners worldwide. From editorial to algorithmic playlists, Apple Music offers powerful opportunities for artists to gain exposure. We’ve already talked in the past about how to get into Spotify’s editorial playlists. Clic here for the full article.

Now, let’s see how to get into Apple Music’s playlists, which currently offers the highest payouts in terms of royalties.

Here’s a practical guide to increase your chances of landing on these coveted playlists.

Optimize your Apple Music for artists profile

Your Apple Music for Artists profile is your digital storefront. A polished, professional presence signals to curators that you’re serious about your craft.

• Claim your profile: Sign up for Apple Music for Artists to claim your artist page. This gives you control over your bio, imagery, and analytics. If you don't know how to claim your profile, don't worry, we have a guide also for this topic. Click here to find it!
• Upload high-quality assets: Use a professional artist photo, a concise bio (highlight your story and genre), and consistent branding.
• Keep it updated: Regularly update your profile with new releases, milestones, or press coverage to stay relevant.

Pro tip: Curators often check your profile before considering your music. Make sure it reflects your unique identity and current work.

Create high-quality, playlist-worthy music

Apple Music playlists prioritize music that resonates with their audience. Quality and relevance are non-negotiable.

• Focus on production quality: Invest in professional recording, mixing, and mastering to meet industry standards.
• Know your genre: Tailor your music to fit specific playlist vibes (e.g., “New Music Daily,” “Rap Life,” or “Chill Hits”). Research playlists in your genre to understand their sound.
• Release consistently: Regular releases keep your catalog fresh and increase your chances of being noticed by curators or algorithms.

Pro tip: Study the sonic and lyrical trends of tracks on your target playlists to align your music without losing your unique style.

Submit to editorial playlists via Apple Music for artists

Apple Music’s editorial playlists, curated by human editors, are highly influential. Unlike Spotify, on Apple Music there isn’t much of a culture around sharing playlists or creating personal playlists to make public, so submitting your music directly is a game-changer.

• Use the pitch tool: In Apple Music for Artists, submit upcoming releases for playlist consideration. You can pitch one song per release, so choose wisely.
• Craft a compelling pitch: Include key details like your genre, release date (submit at least 7 days in advance), and a brief story about the track (e.g., inspiration or themes). Be concise and authentic.
• Target the right playlist: Suggest specific playlists that align with your song’s vibe. Research playlists like “Breaking Pop” or “Future Hits” to find the best fit.

Pro tip: Apple’s editors value storytelling. Highlight what makes your track stand out, like a unique collaboration or cultural relevance.

Boost your chances with algorithmic playlists

Apple Music’s algorithmic playlists (e.g., “New Music Mix” or “Favorites Mix”) are personalized for listeners based on data. You can influence these indirectly.

• Drive streams and engagement: Encourage fans to stream, save, and share your music on Apple Music. Higher engagement signals popularity to algorithms.
• Get playlisted elsewhere: Landing on independent or Spotify playlists can boost your overall streaming numbers, making you more visible to Apple’s algorithms. Nowadays, streaming platform algorithms are designed to give visibility to those who create buzz around themselves from every angle. If your name is going viral on social media, on the radio, or in magazines, it’s very likely to go viral on streaming platforms too.
• Leverage social proof: Promote your music on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or X to create buzz. Curators and algorithms notice trending tracks.

Pro tip: Use Apple Music for Artists analytics to track which songs are gaining traction and double down on promoting those.

Build relationships with curators and tastemakers

While Apple’s editorial team is selective, building connections can open doors.

• Network with industry insiders: Connect with music bloggers, DJs, or smaller playlist curators who may have ties to Apple Music’s team.
• Engage on social media: Follow and interact with Apple Music’s official accounts or genre-specific editors on platforms like X. Be genuine—don’t spam.
• Work with a distributor: Use distributors like DistroKid, TuneCore, or CD Baby, which often have direct relationships with Apple Music and can pitch on your behalf.

Pro tip: Attend industry events or virtual conferences to meet curators or Apple Music reps. Personal connections can make your pitch stand out.

Promote your music strategically

A strong promotional strategy amplifies your visibility and playlist potential.

• Pre-save campaigns: Create pre-save links for upcoming releases to build early momentum. Share these on social media and with your fanbase.
• Collaborate with influencers: Partner with TikTok creators or X influencers to create viral moments that catch Apple’s attention.
• Submit to third-party playlists: Get on independent or user-generated playlists to boost streams, which can lead to algorithmic playlist placements.

Pro tip: Use tools like Linkfire or Feature.fm to create smart links that track fan engagement across platforms, giving you data to refine your strategy.

On Matchfy, you can connect with industry professionals by requesting personalized feedback on your career through the Push Pro feature. You can also connect with influencers, magazines, and radio stations, and launch structured social media campaigns targeted to your audience! Find more at the buttom below:

Avoid common mistakes

Steer clear of pitfalls that can hurt your chances:

• Don’t spam curators: Repeated or generic pitches can harm your reputation.
• Avoid low-quality releases: Poorly produced tracks or incomplete profiles reduce credibility.
• Don’t ignore analytics: Use Apple Music for Artists data to understand what’s working and adjust your approach.

Final thoughts

Getting on Apple Music playlists requires a mix of stellar music, strategic promotion, and persistence. Optimize your profile, submit thoughtful pitches, and build momentum through fan engagement and industry connections. While editorial playlists are competitive, algorithmic playlists offer additional opportunities to shine. Stay consistent, track your progress, and keep refining your craft.

Ready to take your music to the next level? With Matchfy, you get the tools and connections you need to grow faster and smarter in the music industry. Click down below to get started!