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iHeartRadio

iHeartRadio combines streaming with broadcast radio, reaching 188+ million registered users. As part of iHeartMedia, the largest radio broadcaster in the US, iHeartRadio offers unique opportunities to reach both digital and traditional radio audiences.

How your music gets on iHeartRadio

Your music is automatically delivered to iHeartRadio through LabelGrid. No separate claiming process is required for basic distribution.

Key features

FeatureDescription
StreamingOn-demand music streaming
Custom StationsAlgorithm-based radio stations
Live RadioAccess to broadcast radio streams
PodcastsIntegrated podcast platform
VideoVideo distribution (2026)

Why iHeartRadio matters

Radio connection

iHeartRadio is owned by iHeartMedia, which operates:

  • 850+ radio stations across the US
  • Top stations in every major market
  • Multiple formats (pop, rock, country, hip-hop, etc.)

Streaming + radio hybrid

  • Users can stream on-demand
  • Also access live radio stations
  • Cross-promotion between digital and broadcast

US market focus

If the US is important to your strategy, iHeartRadio provides:

  • Mainstream radio listener access
  • Coast-to-coast coverage
  • Format-specific audiences

Getting on iHeartRadio playlists

Algorithmic playlists

Your music can appear in:

  • Genre-based stations
  • Mood-based playlists
  • Discovery features
  • Artist radio stations

Editorial playlists

For editorial consideration:

  • Work with a radio promoter or PR team
  • Submit through industry channels
  • Build momentum on other platforms

Radio airplay

Getting on iHeartRadio’s broadcast stations requires traditional radio promotion:

What you need

  • Radio promoter or PR team
  • Radio-ready track (format appropriate)
  • Press materials and story
  • Often: label or significant indie support

How radio promotion works

  1. Radio promoter pitches to program directors
  2. Track gets added to station rotation
  3. Airplay builds momentum
  4. Can lead to broader playlist additions

Analytics

iHeartRadio provides:

  • Stream counts
  • Listener data
  • Geographic information
  • Performance trends

Access analytics through your LabelGrid dashboard.

Video distribution (2026)

iHeartRadio is expanding into video:

  • Music video hosting
  • Video content discovery
  • Integration with audio streaming

Tips for success

  1. Focus on US market - iHeartRadio is primarily US-focused
  2. Consider radio promotion - For broadcast airplay
  3. Optimize metadata - Genre tagging affects station placement
  4. Build on other platforms - Momentum elsewhere helps

Need help?