Both major streaming platforms offer direct channels for editorial review, but their requirements and lead times differ.
1. Spotify Editorial Pitching (Spotify for Artists)
Once your distributor processes the track, it will appear under the Music → Upcoming tab inside your Spotify for Artists account.
| Pitch Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Lead Time | 7 days before release (14+ days strongly recommended) |
| Eligibility | Single track only per release; unreleased music only; no compilations |
| Key Benefit | Guarantee inclusion on your followers’ Release Radar playlists |
The Perfect Pitch Formula:
Avoid generic promotional statements (e.g., “This is an absolute banger”). Write a structured 3-sentence pitch:
- Sonic Profile: “Afrobeats track featuring mid-tempo percussion, live acoustic guitars, and warm R&B vocals, similar to Burna Boy and Fireboy DML.”
- Story Context: “Written and recorded in Lagos, capturing the emotion of overcoming struggle and celebrating success.”
- Marketing Plan: “Supported by $1,000 in targeted social ads, an official music video premiere on release day, and active radio pitching across West Africa.”
2. Apple Music Pitching (Apple Music Connect / Distributors)
Unlike Spotify, Apple Music receives editorial pitches primarily through Apple Music Connect via participating label/distributor accounts rather than an open artist pitch portal.
- Lead Time: Submit at least 10 days prior to street date for full editorial consideration (7 days is the absolute deadline for late additions).
- Deliverables: Highlight high-value assets if available—such as Dolby Atmos / Spatial Audio mixes, Motion Artwork, and time-synced lyrics. Apple surfaces Spatial Audio releases prominently in curated feeds.
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