Why Timing Matters: When to Submit Your Music for DSP Editorial Playlist Consideration
In today's music industry, releasing a great song is only part of the journey. To maximize a release's potential, artists also need a well-planned strategy that includes editorial playlist pitching. Securing placement on playlists curated by Digital Service Providers (DSPs) such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Audiomack, Shadhin Music and Deezer can significantly increase a song's visibility, helping it reach new listeners around the world.
One of the most common questions artists ask is: When is the right time to submit a release for editorial playlist consideration?
The answer is simple: the earlier, the better.
The Ideal Submission Timeline
At SM Records Ltd., we recommend delivering your music 4 to 6 weeks before your planned release date. This allows enough time for your distributor to deliver the release to all major DSPs, ensures your metadata is processed correctly, and gives you the opportunity to submit your track for editorial review.
The editorial playlist pitch itself should ideally be submitted 4 to 6 weeks before release. This timeframe gives editorial teams sufficient time to review your music alongside thousands of other submissions they receive each week.
Although some platforms may accept pitches submitted as little as 7 days before release, waiting until the last minute can reduce your chances of being considered, as many editorial playlists are planned well in advance.
Why Early Submission Is Important
Editorial teams don't just listen to the music they also review the story behind each release. A strong pitch explains what makes the song unique, the inspiration behind it, the target audience, and any promotional plans surrounding the release.
Submitting your music early allows editors enough time to evaluate both the song and its accompanying pitch before playlists are finalized. It also provides time to resolve any delivery or metadata issues that could otherwise delay your release.
A Recommended Release Schedule
To give your music the strongest possible launch, we recommend following this timeline:
- 6 weeks before release: Finalize your master recording, artwork, and metadata, then upload your release through your distributor.
- 4 weeks before release: Submit your editorial playlist pitch and begin planning your marketing campaign.
- 2 weeks before release: Launch pre-save campaigns, announce the release across social media, and begin promotional activities.
- Release day: Continue promoting your music through social media, press coverage, fan engagement, and advertising to maintain momentum.
Final Thoughts
Editorial playlist placement is never guaranteed, but careful planning can significantly improve your chances of being noticed. By preparing your release in advance and submitting your editorial pitch early, you give your music the best opportunity to be reviewed and considered by DSP editorial teams.
At The SM Records Ltd., we encourage every artist to treat playlist pitching as an essential part of their release strategy. Combined with high-quality music, a compelling story, and a consistent promotional campaign, early editorial submission can help your release reach a wider audience and build long-term success.
A successful release begins long before release day and timing is one of the most valuable tools an artist can use.
