Playlists come and go. Algorithms change every quarter. But a DJ who believes in your record will play it, talk about it, and put it next to the music that shaped them. That’s still how artists get heard for real. Hoodz Radio has been doing this since 2006, so here’s the straight version of how it works and how to give your record its best shot.

1. Understand what radio is actually looking for

Curators aren’t hunting for the loudest song. They’re looking for records that fit the sound of the station and can sit next to the classics without falling off. At Hoodz Radio that means Hip-Hop, R&B, Neo-Soul and Trap that respects the craft: real pen game, real production, real intent.

Before you submit anywhere, listen to the station for a few days. If your record wouldn’t make sense in that rotation, find a station where it would.

2. Get your record radio-ready

  • Mastered audio. A rough mix next to a mastered record sounds weak on air, every time.
  • A clean version. Many slots need one. Having it ready removes a reason to pass.
  • Correct metadata. Artist name, song title and featured artists spelled exactly how you want them said on air.
  • Short intros. DJs need to get into the record. A 45-second intro is a tough sell.

3. Own your music

This is the part most artists skip. To be played, you need to control the rights to what you’re sending, including the beat and any samples. At Hoodz Radio, you must own 100% of the rights to the track you submit. Leased beats with unclear terms and uncleared samples are the fastest way to a “no.”

4. Tell your story in two sentences

Who are you, where are you from, and why does this record matter? Curators read a lot of submissions. A sharp, honest two-line bio beats a page of hype.

5. Don’t pay for spins

If someone is charging you just to “guarantee” radio play, be careful. Real curation is about the music. Submitting to Hoodz Radio is free. We review submissions every week.

6. Think exclusive

A record nobody else has played yet gives a station a reason to move first. At Hoodz Radio, exclusives get priority for Next Gen Spotlight, our segment built to put emerging artists in front of a real audience.

7. Follow up the right way

Once you’re played, share it. Clip it, post it, tag the station, and send your people to listen. A station that sees an artist bringing an audience will remember that artist.

Ready to submit?

If your record is mastered, you own it, and it belongs next to the music that built this culture, send it in.

Submit your music to Hoodz Radio (free) →

Want to hear what we play first? Start here.

Respect the Legacy. Amplify the Movement.