Why Radio Is Still a Key Driver
Even in the streaming era, radio still accounts for over 19 % of music discovery in Europe¹ and acts as an editorial stamp for DSPs. For an emerging artist, first airplay triggers:
an instant surge in 👉 Shazams;
a correlated rise in streams and playlist adds;
a solid talking point to convince promoters & local media.
With 2,200+ stations across 100 countries, LISTN streamlines the process and guarantees a response within 30 days, or your credits are refunded.
The Sidekick Music 3‑Step Strategy
Recommended budget: €300 – €500 (1 credit = €1)
1. Discovery Phase (30 days)
Target 50–100 indie stations in a single country to keep tracking simple (e.g., France, Germany, Canada).
Let the LISTN algorithm pick the most relevant stations (cost: 2–8 credits per station).
Goal: build an initial bedding of spins to test audience resonance.
2. Credit Reallocation & Analysis
After 30 days:
20–40 % of stations will have accepted or declined ➜ unused credits are auto‑refunded.
Identify:
airplay supporters (prioritize high‑audience stations);
territories showing the strongest mid‑week reaction (Shazam, streams, sales).
3. Targeted Amplification (10–20 stations)
Reinvest credits in:
high‑audience stations within the best‑performing countries;
national outlets via a local radio plugger (interviews, liners, partnerships).
Result: a second promotional wave without extra spend.
Pro Tips (Quick Checklist)
One campaign = one country: easier reporting & A/B testing.
Add confirmed airplay to your press kit (timestamps, programmer quotes).
Cross‑check data Shazam ↔️ LISTN to spot geo‑hotspots.
Advanced Use Cases
🔄 Tour Support
Identify stations near tour stops and propose:
spins of the latest single;
🤝 PR Agencies & Radio Pluggers
Use LISTN to expand their roster beyond their home market.
Response guarantee → detailed reporting for clients.
Budget optimization thanks to credit refunds.
Quick FAQ
Can I filter stations by format (DAB, FM, web radio)?
Yes, use “Broadcast type” at selection.
What if no station replies?
Your credits are fully refunded. Relaunch for free.
Take Action
Create your LISTN account or log in.
Prepare a 44.1 kHz / 16‑bit WAV, and a 500‑char pitch.
Launch your first radio campaign ➜ promo code: “RADIO10” (‑10 % until 31 Dec 2025).
Sources : IFPI Consumer Study 2024 – section « Music Discovery ».
Listn is a cutting-edge music marketing platform designed to empower music creators with effortless, simple, and cost-effective promotion tools. We connect artists with curators, including radio stations, playlist owners, and influencers across more than 100 countries.
With access to over 2,200 radio stations, 2,700+ influencers and 500 Spotify playlists, Listn is changing the game in music marketing by providing unparalleled control and transparency to independent artists and labels alike.
NAVIGATION
CATEGORIES
DISCLAIMER
All Rights Reserved © 2025 Listn.live
All content, including text, graphics, logos, images, and audio clips, on this blog is the property of Listn.live or its content suppliers and is protected by international copyright laws. Reproduction or redistribution of any part of this content without the express written consent of Listn.live is prohibited.