In 2023, SoundCloud reached a significant milestone with 140 million active users, including 40 million music creators. The platform continues to grow as more individuals share their music and embark on their journey as artists. Did you know SoundCloud currently hosts 375 million songs—and counting? It’s no wonder many aspiring musicians choose SoundCloud as their starting point. However, simply creating a profile and uploading your tracks isn’t enough to stand out. To succeed, you need to understand and work with the SoundCloud algorithm, the driving force behind recommendations, compilations, and overall visibility on the platform.
Mastering this algorithm is the key to gaining popularity on SoundCloud. Those who learn its nuances can make the platform’s system work in their favor.
If you’re eager to appear in recommendations, boost your profile’s visibility, and attract a larger audience, this guide is for you. Read on to explore how the SoundCloud algorithm operates and how you can leverage it effectively.
What Is the SoundCloud Algorithm and How Does It Work?
Unlike Spotify or Apple Music, SoundCloud does not openly disclose the specifics of its algorithm. What we do know is that it is powered by the DiscoRank algorithm, developed by Amelie Anglade. While this algorithm’s inner workings are detailed in external resources, here are the most important takeaways:
- Optimize your songs for search by including relevant tags.
- Specify the genre to ensure your music appears in search results.
- Promote your music immediately upon release—the Explore tab prioritizes recently released tracks.
- User interactions like plays, likes, reposts, and comments significantly influence the algorithm.
- Link your profile to high-quality platforms like Instagram and Facebook to enhance both the algorithm and your promotion efforts.
The algorithm rewards proactive behavior. By following these guidelines, you can push your content to the top and increase its chances of going viral.
However, there are factors beyond your control, such as users’ listening histories. SoundCloud tailors recommendations based on past activity, selecting tracks within genres listeners prefer. This makes using the correct genre tags crucial for ensuring your music reaches the right audience. When your track gains traction, it triggers the algorithm, making it appear in user feeds and suggested playlists.
SoundCloud Charts – A Gateway to Recognition
On November 20, 2023, SoundCloud introduced an exciting update with new charts: “New & Hot” and “Next Pro.” These charts provide emerging artists with increased visibility and an opportunity to showcase their talent to a broader audience.
- “New & Hot” highlights fast-rising tracks and is updated every Friday, showcasing music that’s gaining momentum.
- “Next Pro” is tailored for independent and unsigned artists, spotlighting emerging talent.
These charts are fortified with security protocols to prevent fraudulent activity and ensure fair recognition. For artists, appearing on these charts signals credibility and boosts their presence across the platform.
Tips to Get Your Songs on SoundCloud Charts
Build Connections to Boost Your Visibility
Engage with other users by liking, commenting, and sharing their content, and encourage them to do the same for your music. Utilize relevant hashtags to improve discoverability and connect with a larger audience.
By understanding and leveraging the SoundCloud algorithm, you can unlock new opportunities, increase your music’s reach, and rise to the top of the charts. Start implementing these strategies today to grow your audience and establish yourself as an artist.
Use Multiple Promotion Techniques to Boost Your Presence on the SoundCloud Algorithm
To make your music stand out on SoundCloud, relying solely on promo packages isn’t enough. You need to utilize every tool at your disposal to ensure your tracks reach the right audience. When artists ask how to promote their music on SoundCloud, they often seek unique strategies—but the answer lies in creatively leveraging the basics, like your social media platforms.
Maximize Social Media for Promotion
Use your social media accounts to amplify your SoundCloud releases. Share engaging stories and Reels, include relevant hashtags, and build excitement by announcing your upcoming tracks.
For example, when bands like Fozzy announce their tours in the UK, they engage fans, driving ticket sales and attendance. Similarly, announcing your release date ahead of time can prepare your audience for your new music. Avoid surprise releases, as they may not generate as much impact—listeners are more likely to overlook your track if it’s unannounced.
Follow an Effective Posting Schedule
Consistency is critical when building trust with your audience. Posting at optimal times ensures your music gets maximum engagement. Below is an example of a weekly posting schedule:
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 7 AM – 10 AM |
| Tuesday | 9 AM – 11 AM |
| Wednesday | 5 PM – 7 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM – 9 AM |
| Friday | 5 PM – 7 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM – 1 PM |
| Sunday | 5 PM – 7 PM |
While this is just a sample schedule, you can refine yours based on audience behavior. Use SoundCloud Insights to analyze detailed stats, such as plays, likes, reposts, and comments, to determine when your audience is most active. Every interaction—whether a like, comment, or repost—triggers the algorithm and increases your chances of getting noticed.
Collaborate Through Playlists
Networking is a cornerstone of SoundCloud success. As a newcomer, creating connections can open up new audiences for your music. Reposting is an effective tool here. When you repost three songs, SoundCloud may prompt you to create a collaborative playlist with another user.
Collaborative playlists allow you to share your tracks with another artist’s audience, introducing your music to new listeners. Initially, the playlist will feature three tracks from each collaborator, but it can be expanded by adding more songs over time. This mutual promotion strategy benefits both parties and can provide a significant boost to the algorithm.
Final Thoughts
To maximize your impact on the SoundCloud algorithm, combine promo packages with social media promotion, consistent posting schedules, and collaborative networking. These strategies not only improve visibility but also create genuine connections with your audience, paving the way for long-term success!