Apple Music Ads: How to Get More Listeners as an Upcoming Artist

Music is a battlefield.

Only the strongest, the smartest, and the most strategic rise above the noise. If you're an upcoming artist, your music alone isn't enough—you need exposure.

That’s where advertising comes in.

Apple Music doesn’t offer direct advertising like some platforms, but don’t let that stop you. With the right moves, you can place your music in front of thousands of potential fans using Apple’s ad ecosystem. The key? Apple Search Ads and third-party promotions.

Step 1: Use Apple Search Ads

Apple Search Ads allow you to promote your music inside the App Store, which can help drive downloads of your song or album.

How to Set It Up:

Go to Apple Search Ads – This is where you create and manage your ads.
Choose Your Ad Type:
- Basic: Apple automates most of the work. You set a budget, and they do the rest.
- Advanced: More control over targeting, keywords, and budget.
Set Your Budget – Start small (even $5/day) and scale up as you see results.
Target the Right Audience – You can filter by:
- Location
- Age
- Interests (like music lovers)
- Device type (iPhone, iPad, etc.)
Track Performance – Apple provides analytics to see which ads perform best. Adjust as needed.

Step 2: Promote with Social Media Ads

Apple Music links can be advertised through platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. You want people to click and stream your music.

How to Run a Social Media Ad for Your Music:

Use a Strong Hook – The first 3 seconds of your ad must grab attention. Use your best beat drop or lyric.
Show a Short Clip – A snippet of your music video or an eye-catching animation.
Include a Direct Link – Make it easy for people to listen. Use a smart link that redirects based on their device.
Target Music Lovers – Platforms let you target people who like artists similar to you.

Step 3: Work with Influencers & Playlists

Sometimes, you need someone else to introduce your music to the masses.

Influencer Marketing:

Pay or collaborate with TikTokers, YouTubers, and IG influencers to use your music.
Even small influencers (10k–50k followers) can drive streams if their audience is engaged.

Playlist Submissions:

Submit your song to curated playlists through services like:
- SubmitHub
- Playlist Push
- Daily Playlists
Getting on a big playlist can skyrocket your streams overnight.

Step 4: Retargeting Ads for Maximum Impact

Not everyone clicks on your music the first time. That’s why retargeting ads exist.

How It Works:

When someone visits your website or interacts with your music ad, track them.
Run a second ad specifically targeting those people.
Since they’ve seen you before, they’re more likely to listen this time.

Step 5: Track Your Results & Adjust

Success in music advertising isn’t about luck—it’s about data.

Check Your Analytics:
- Which ads got the most clicks?
- What age group is listening the most?
- Which locations are performing best?
Adjust Your Strategy:
- Double down on what’s working.
- Stop spending on what’s not.

Outro

Every great artist wasn’t just discovered—they made themselves impossible to ignore. Running ads the right way gets your music in front of the right ears. If you need help with this or other career-boosting opportunities, reach out to us. We can help you strategize, market, and grow your fanbase the smart way.

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU

Our recently upgraded Pro Plan is the perfect option for attracting record labels while seeing a return on your investment. Here's how it works...