Writing a playlist pitch can feel like the make or break part of your release.
And most artists were never taught how to write a pitch that truly helps an editor understand the heart of their music.
And streaming services’ playlist editors aren’t judging you. They’re not questioning your talent. They’re simply moving fast, scanning for clarity, emotion, and a sense of where your song fits.
The good news is: with just a bit of guidance, you can write a pitch that stands out beautifully.
Some Do's and Don't from an Expert
We sat down with Laura Moat, Head of Streaming at All Ear Promotions for her tips on what works:
My name is Laura Moat and I’ve worked in the streaming and strategy space for over 15 years, predominately championing independent artists and labels. I currently work for the well known radio promotions company, All Ears and I head up the streaming and strategy arm of the business.
Every DSP is nuanced and should be pitched what that in mind. For example, at Apple Music, they encourage you to pitch for specific playlists. At other DSP’s, that’s not advisable. Here are some simple do’s and don’t’s that are applicable for all services:
- DO make it personal. Editors want to know about you, your music and your journey
- DO let them know what you’re up to. Live dates, interesting activations etc. They want a rounded picture of you as an artist
- DO utilise all the characters in the pitch allowance if you have relevant information. This is your chance to get your music heard
- DO describe your music and sound. Editors might see your pitch before they listen to the music
- DON’T deliver your music late. Get it in and pitched nice and early - ideally a month or more before release
Good luck!
An Example Pitch
Here’s a sample you can model, edit, or use for inspiration:
“I wrote this during a heavy creative block, and the idea arrived on a quiet late night drive when everything finally felt like it could breathe again. Playing it at a Sofar Sounds show and small London gigs, people connected with its softness. It’s a stripped-back alt-R&B track with airy vocals and intimate production. I’ll support the release with moody live visuals, TikTok clips, and reels.”
This pitch works because:
- it’s emotional
- it’s visual
- it’s specific
- it’s short
- it communicates momentum
You can tailor it for any genre or mood.
Where Do I Pitch?
The following services have dedicated pitching tools for artists to submit their own pitches:
Be sure to get your pitch in weeks ahead of release so that editors have a chance to hear your song.
If You Still Don’t Land Editorial Playlists - You Haven’t Failed
Truly, you haven’t.
Editorial playlists are amazing, but they’re just one pathway.
When artists feel stuck, platforms like un:hurd music exist specifically to help.
Through our playlisting tools, easy to use paid ads and partner perks we can support drive your music outside of the editorial playlist ecosystem.
Your music can grow through consistency, community, smart targeting, and artist-friendly tools.
If you’ve read this far, it says a lot about your dedication.
And that dedication is what ultimately moves careers.
Ready to send a pitch that actually gets read?
Head back to the un:hurd app to refine your release strategy and sync your pitch with a high impact promotion plan.
Not an un:hurd user yet?
Join thousands of independent artists who are using un:hurd to streamline their music marketing and maximise their impact. Sign up today!
