Spotify just created an official “This is Christopher Louie Poetry” playlist for me! This is an exciting milestone for my music career.
Spotify’s “This is [Artist Name]” playlists are official editorial playlists curated by Spotify’s editorial team, showcasing an artist’s most defining or popular tracks – or as Spotify puts it – “The essential tracks, all in one playlist”. They’re intended to introduce listeners to the artist’s best or most representative work. This is a milestone achievement for me because Spotify’s “This Is” playlist is usually created for artists who have gained a certain level of traction, audience or cultural relevance.
Allegedly, Spotify’s in-house editors curate these playlists – not algorithms. They review an artist’s catalog, popularity, cultural relevance, and streaming performance prior to deciding which artists get this playlist. Generally, decision is bsed on an artist’s substantial monthly listener base, consistent playlisting on other editorial or algorithmic playlists, active engagement: saves, shares, etc. Artists usually are expected to have enough of a catalog (at least several standout singles, albums or EPs) for Spotify to draw from and build a compelling playlist.
Why It Matters
It boosts your credibility with fans, press, booking agents, and industry professionals. It improves your algorithmic visibility (Radio, Autoplay, Fans Also Like). It’s a stepping stone toward bigger editorial playlists and potentially Spotify’s Radar, Fresh Finds or New Music Friday.
Not every artist gets one. For example, as of 2024, Spotify had over 11 million artists with music on the platform but out of these, only 20,000 to 25,000 “This Is” playlists existed on Spotify. That translates to approximately 0.2% to 0.5% of all artists on Spotify (assuming that my information is correct). So yes, I am very proud to be issued one as this is a major milestone and a strong indicator that my music is heard and loved! I also see this as a momentum to continue doing what I love – make more music based on my poetry! A “This Is” playlist means Spotify sees you as a real artist with a brand, not just a one-off viral track. It’s a form of validation that your growth, consistency and engagement have reached a point where Spotify wants to help introduce new listeners to you.
Thank you to all my friends and listeners for streaming, supporting and believing!
