5 signs a playlist offer is a scam

2026-10-07 · Remy Vance

Put out a song and the messages start within days. "Guaranteed 10,000 streams." "Get on our playlist for $50." It's tempting when you're desperate to be heard. Here's how to tell when to walk away.

• They guarantee numbers. Nobody honest can promise a set number of streams, followers or plays.
• You pay for a playlist spot. Paying for a guaranteed spot on a playlist goes against Spotify's rules.
• They found you first. A surprise message asking you to pay up front is a red flag.
• The playlist looks too big to be real. Huge follower counts with very few saves or real listeners often mean bots.
• They won't say who's listening. If they can't tell you who runs the playlist or where the listeners come from, don't send money.

Why it matters

Spotify says it may remove songs that get fake streams, and in some cases it can hold back royalties too. A paid shortcut can cost you the song.

What to do instead

Pitch real curators and blogs yourself, with a short, friendly email and a link to the song. My Playlist Pitch Email Templates give you the exact words, plus how to find curators who actually suit your music.