If you’ve ever searched for your favorite band on Spotify, you’ve probably seen a playlist called This Is [Artist] — an official Spotify-curated collection that highlights an artist’s biggest and most essential tracks. For independent musicians, landing one of these playlists feels like a badge of honor.
But how do you actually get a This Is Spotify playlist? Unlike user-made playlists, these aren’t created on request. They’re built by Spotify itself, based on data, popularity, and engagement. Let’s break down what it takes.
What Is a "This Is" Playlist?
A This Is playlist is an official Spotify-branded playlist curated to showcase the core songs of an artist. It usually includes:
- The artist’s most-streamed songs.
- Fan favorites that perform well over time.
- Tracks that define the artist’s style or career.
It’s automatically updated as the artist releases new music or as fan listening habits shift.
For fans, it’s the easiest way to discover the essential catalog of an artist. For musicians, it signals legitimacy and often boosts streams significantly.
How Spotify Decides Who Gets One
Not every artist gets a This Is playlist. Spotify typically creates them when:
- An artist has consistent engagement across multiple songs.
- They have a growing catalog (usually more than a handful of tracks).
- Their music attracts a dedicated following with regular listeners.
- They’re appearing in playlists (algorithmic or editorial) and generating momentum.
The decision is data-driven. If Spotify sees that an artist’s audience is growing, and listeners regularly search for them, the system flags them as eligible for a This Is playlist.
Steps Independent Artists Can Take
While you can’t request a This Is playlist directly, you can build the kind of activity that triggers one. Here’s how:
Release Music Consistently
Spotify rewards artists who maintain a steady flow of releases. Build a catalog with singles, EPs, and albums so there’s enough material for a playlist.
Drive Fans to Your Spotify Profile
Encourage your fans to follow you on Spotify. The more followers and streams you generate, the more likely you’ll hit Spotify’s radar.
Optimize Your Artist Profile
- Add a compelling bio.
- Upload high-quality photos.
- Highlight merch and links.
A professional profile helps Spotify (and fans) take you seriously.
Promote Through Playlists
Get your music onto legitimate playlists, whether editorial, algorithmic, or user-curated. Tools like IndieStar’s free playlist submission catalog make this easier without risking fake streams.
Build Engagement Off-Platform
The more you push fans from TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube to Spotify, the stronger your numbers. Spotify notices when new listeners arrive from outside campaigns.
How Long Does It Take?
There’s no set timeline. Some artists get a This Is playlist after only a few years, while others build for much longer. The key is consistent growth.
Focus less on the playlist itself and more on building the kind of career where a This Is playlist becomes inevitable.
Alternatives for Indie Artists
If you don’t yet qualify for an official playlist, you can create your own “This Is [Your Artist Name]” playlist and feature it on your profile. Add:
- Your most-streamed tracks.
- Fan favorites.
- Collaborations and features.
Promote this playlist as your “best of” collection. It gives fans a similar experience while you build toward an official one.
Final Thoughts
Getting a This Is Spotify playlist is a milestone, not a starting point. You can’t buy your way in or request one directly, Spotify assigns them based on data and momentum.
By releasing music consistently, driving engagement, and using tools like IndieStar to get onto authentic playlists, you can set yourself on the path toward one.
And until it arrives, creating your own “best of” playlist ensures that fans can already experience the essence of your music in one place.