SoundCloud Launches “Buzzing Playlists” to Rival Spotify’s Discover Weekly

SoundCloud Introduces “Buzzing Playlists” to Showcase Emerging Artists

SoundCloud, the popular online audio distribution platform, has recently unveiled a new series of playlists called “Buzzing Playlists.” These curated collections aim to put the spotlight on promising tracks from up-and-coming artists across various genres, including pop, hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music.

Featuring Next Pro Artists

The tracks featured in Buzzing Playlists come from artists who are part of SoundCloud’s Next Pro paid subscription program. This initiative provides emerging talents with tools and resources to help them grow their careers and reach a wider audience.

Curating the Playlists

To determine which tracks make it onto the Buzzing Playlists, SoundCloud analyzes various engagement metrics, such as repeat plays, playlist additions, likes, comments, and reposts. The playlists are refreshed on a weekly basis, ensuring that the content remains fresh and relevant.

First Fans Program

In 2022, SoundCloud introduced the First Fans program, which utilizes machine learning algorithms to match new tracks with listeners who are likely to enjoy them based on their music preferences. This initiative helps artists gain their first 100 listeners when releasing new material. The top-performing tracks from this experiment are then recommended to 1,000 users in autoplay mode.

Since its launch in June 2023, the First Fans program has analyzed more than 3.5 million tracks. As a result, Next Pro artists have experienced a remarkable 400% increase in their listener base.

Opportunities for Further Exposure

Tracks that perform well in the Buzzing Playlists have the potential to gain even more visibility by being featured in SoundCloud’s charts or editorial playlists. This additional exposure can significantly boost an artist’s career and help them connect with a broader fan base.

Drawing Comparisons to Spotify’s Discover Weekly

SoundCloud’s Buzzing Playlists bear some resemblance to Spotify’s Discover Weekly playlists, which suggest new music to users based on their listening history. However, while Discover Weekly focuses on introducing users to previously unheard tracks, Buzzing Playlists specifically highlight emerging artists from SoundCloud’s Next Pro program.

With the introduction of Buzzing Playlists, SoundCloud continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting and promoting up-and-coming talent in the music industry. By providing a platform for these artists to showcase their work and connect with new listeners, SoundCloud is helping to shape the future of music discovery and distribution.