Spotify’s New Playlist Transitions & DJ Software Integration: What Artists & Labels Need to Know
Spotify has introduced two major new capabilities for Premium users that open significant opportunities for artists and labels – especially those with extended mixes, club edits, and alternate versions in their catalogue.
Here’s what’s changing, how it affects your music, and how EmuBands can help you make the most of it.
What exactly has Spotify introduced?
1. Customisable transitions in playlists
Spotify Premium users can now add and adjust seamless transitions between tracks using volume, EQ, and effect curves. Additionally, BPM and key information is shown, to help in decisions from the listener to create smoother transitions. This blends tracks more naturally – ideal for long-form or DJ-friendly versions.
2. DJ-software integration for Spotify
Premium users can now access their playlists and Spotify’s catalogue directly through DJ platforms such as Rekordbox, Serato and djay across supported markets. This means your tracks – including extended versions – can be mixed in real time by DJs of all levels.
These two features work hand-in-hand, and both favour catalogues that offer alternate versions beyond the standard single/album mix.
Why does this matter for my catalogue?
These tools shift more weight toward DJ-style listening on Spotify. Catalogues that include extended versions, club mixes, longer intros, live edits and remixes are well placed to benefit, especially when tracks are designed to blend rather than drop abruptly.
If you already have versions doing well on specialist platforms (for example Beatport) but which are not yet available on Spotify, now is an ideal time to upload them so they’re ready when transitions, mixed-playlists and DJ-software sessions gain traction.
Is Spotify asking for extended or alternate versions?
Yes – Spotify has directly asked distributors, including EmuBands, to help ensure extended mixes and remixes already available elsewhere are also available on Spotify. Millions of mixed playlists have already been created, and that extended versions help improve both the listener and DJ experience.
This isn’t a requirement, but it’s a strong opportunity to give your existing catalogue more reach.
Should I upload extended versions if I have them?
If you have extended, club, or alternative versions sitting on other DSPs or in your archives, making them available on Spotify is likely to increase their visibility and usage – especially with DJs now mixing directly from the platform.
You don’t need to create new versions unless you want to. Simply delivering versions you already have can help you tap into these new listener behaviours quickly.
Can this help drive streams?
It can. These features will typically favour tracks with:
– Long intros/outros
– Build-ups and breakdowns
– Extended arrangements
– Versions designed for seamless play
These versions often become the most played in mixed-playlist environments. If your catalogue is suited to continuous-mix listening, having these versions on Spotify gives you more chances to be included in user mixes and DJ sets.
I haven’t uploaded extended versions to Spotify before – what’s the best way to start?
You can upload them through EmuBands exactly as you would any new release. Many artists and labels are now choosing to “mirror” extended versions that previously existed only on DJ-focused platforms so they can benefit from these new features.
If you’d like guidance on metadata, naming, or strategy – for example, whether to group versions under one release or deliver them separately – our Artist Relations team is happy to help. If you’re a Pro or Premium user, you can contact your personal account manager directly via email, or use the live chat function to speak to our team instantly within the Dashboard.
For users on our Basic or Plus plans, contact us via the Artist Relations email.
This can be a good moment to review your catalogue and identify versions that fans may not have heard on Spotify yet.
For general info on how to upload a release, see here: How Do I Add a Release to My Account?
Do I have to deliver everything at once?
Not at all. You can start with a few key extended or club versions, then add more over time. Many labels treat this as a lightweight catalogue-refresh: releasing alternate versions not only supports Spotify’s new features but can also create renewed interest around existing material.
Will uploading extended versions affect my existing release strategy?
No – extended versions work alongside your main releases. Many artists find that offering a “mix-friendly” version can increase discovery without cannibalising streams from the standard version.
Your release strategy remains entirely within your control; these new features simply create additional ways for listeners and DJs to engage with your catalogue.
If you’re delivering a version to Spotify that has previously been released elsewhere, you can enter the original release date during upload. This ensures the track appears in the correct chronological position on your Spotify artist profile (e.g. it will not show as a brand new release!).
How can EmuBands support me through this?
We can help you with:
– Reviewing your catalogue for versions suited to DJ-style mixing
– Uploading extended or alternate mixes
– Metadata and naming guidance
– Understanding how Spotify may use these versions in transitions and DJ-software
– Ensuring your catalogue is positioned to take advantage of new features as they roll out
If you have extended mixes on other platforms or unreleased alternate versions, now is a great time to consider delivering them to Spotify.
Summary – Is now a good moment to upload extended mixes?
In short, yes. With Spotify placing increasing emphasis on transitions and DJ usage, extended versions have more opportunities than ever to be surfaced, mixed, and discovered. Delivering them to Spotify ensures your catalogue is available to take advantage of these developments.
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About EmuBands
Formed in 2005, EmuBands is the trusted partner of thousands of artists, labels and managers across the world. With supercharged release features and expert support, we provide a low-cost solution to distribute your music, allowing you to retain control of your copyright and keep 100% of your royalties. Review our Pricing, Services, and Sign-Up today.