![Spotify Discovery Mode: How to Get More Listeners [2026 Guide]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYobfHZLI9yw0cwxSHXGihMO7yMzp-rOjKhKHT1_OuOUQUIjlrEtXnawwN1svLVP66O3bAO1pInC9JyBtsCDFVUY8i02Ewi0fpOWZmIt-h4h5ih512GKGisQW7h2F8MlmKpaz1c3orGRi_Ch-uvDv_L8pBJC1U5kKZJUaph5Yc0GMdTZwr8BKNjD-NAJY/s1600/spotify-discovery-mode-artist.jpg)
Looking for ways to get your music in front of more listeners on Spotify? Spotify Discovery Mode is a promotional tool that gives artists the ability to boost their tracks in algorithmic placements—but it comes with a trade-off. Let's break down how it works and whether it's worth it for your music career.
Quick Summary
Discovery Mode = More algorithmic exposure in exchange for a reduced royalty rate on those specific streams. Available through Spotify for Artists.
What Is Spotify Discovery Mode?
Spotify Discovery Mode is a promotional tool available through Spotify for Artists that allows musicians and labels to signal which tracks they want to prioritize for algorithmic recommendations. In return, Spotify increases the visibility of those tracks in personalized listening sessions.
Think of it as a way to tell Spotify: "This track is a priority—help more people discover it."
How Discovery Mode Works
Select Your Tracks
In Spotify for Artists, choose which tracks you want to prioritize in Discovery Mode. You can select new releases or catalog tracks that need a boost.
Spotify Boosts Visibility
Your selected tracks appear more frequently in algorithmic placements like Radio, Autoplay, and personalized recommendations.
Accept Promotional Rate
In exchange for increased exposure, you agree to a reduced royalty rate on streams generated specifically from Discovery Mode placements.
Where Discovery Mode Tracks Appear
The Trade-off: Lower Royalties for More Exposure
Here's where it gets controversial. In exchange for increased exposure, you agree to a promotional royalty rate on streams that come specifically from Discovery Mode placements. This means you earn less per stream on those plays.
↑
More Streams
Increased algorithmic visibility
↓
Lower Rate
Reduced royalty per stream
Important: The reduced rate only applies to streams generated through Discovery Mode placements—not all streams of that track. Your normal royalty rate applies everywhere else.
Is Spotify Discovery Mode Worth It?
The answer depends on your goals. Here's when Discovery Mode makes sense—and when it doesn't.
✓ When It's Worth It
- New releases that need initial momentum
- Catalog tracks that have stalled
- When you prioritize audience growth over immediate revenue
- Testing which tracks resonate with new listeners
- Building follower counts and monthly listeners
✗ When to Skip It
- Tracks already performing well organically
- When royalty income is your priority
- If you have limited catalog to test with
- Songs that don't match algorithmic listener preferences
- When you haven't optimized your Spotify profile first
Pro Tips for Using Discovery Mode
Start with 1-2 Tracks
Test Discovery Mode on a few tracks before committing your entire catalog. Monitor performance to see if the trade-off is worthwhile.
Choose Tracks with Broad Appeal
Discovery Mode works best for songs that fit neatly into popular genres and moods. Experimental or niche tracks may not see as much benefit.
Track Your Metrics
Use Spotify for Artists to monitor saves, followers gained, and listener retention. These metrics matter more than stream counts alone.
Combine with Playlist Pitching
Discovery Mode works best as part of a broader strategy. Pair it with curator playlist pitching for maximum exposure and engaged listeners.
Want More Than Algorithmic Placements?
SongRocket connects you directly with 1,400+ vetted playlist curators. Get real placements from real people—no reduced royalty rates.
Start Your Campaign →Discovery Mode vs. Playlist Pitching: Which Is Better?
| Feature | Discovery Mode | Playlist Pitching |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Reduced royalty rate | Upfront fee |
| Placement Type | Algorithmic (Radio, Autoplay) | Curated playlists |
| Listener Intent | Passive discovery | Active playlist listeners |
| Royalty Impact | Lower per-stream rate | Full royalty rate |
| Curator Feedback | None | Often included |
| Best For | Volume, new listeners | Engaged fans, saves |
The verdict? Both tools have their place. Discovery Mode is great for volume and visibility, while playlist pitching through services like SongRocket delivers engaged listeners who save and follow. The best strategy combines both.