Discovery Mode is a marketing tool within Spotify for Artists that allows artists and labels to prioritize specific tracks in algorithmic mixes (Radio and Autoplay).
The Deal
Instead of paying an upfront fee (like an ad), you agree to a 30% commission on the recording royalties generated by those specific streams.
- You Give: 30% of the revenue from streams generated within Discovery Mode contexts.
- You Get: Increased probability of being played when users are in "lean-back" listening modes (Radio/Autoplay).
Cost vs Benefit
| Scenario | Without Discovery Mode | With Discovery Mode |
|---|---|---|
| 1,000 streams from Radio/Autoplay | $3.00 royalty (100%) | $2.10 royalty (70%) |
| Reach multiplier | Baseline | Increased probability in lean-back contexts |
| Best for | Tracks already in heavy rotation | Catalog revival, momentum building |
Is it worth it?
Discovery Mode is powerful for reviving catalog tracks or pushing a song that has good retention but low traffic. However, it is not a magic fix. If listeners skip the track when Discovery Mode serves it, the system stops prioritizing it, regardless of your willingness to pay the commission.
When to use it: Turn Discovery Mode on to find a new audience, then turn it off once the track has momentum. Or keep it running if the volume justifies the lower rate.