How Indie Artists Are Gaming Spotify Without Getting Banned with Dorian Perron

In this episode, Max Bernstein sits down with Dorian Perron, Co-founder of Groover, to break down how artists actually grow on Spotify today through playlists, algorithms, and data-driven strategies.Dorian explains why playlisting has become the dominant form of music promotion, replacing traditional outlets like blogs and radio, and how artists can use it to generate real audience growth. He also talks about the risks of artificial streaming, how to identify fraudulent playlists, and why engagement matters far more than follower count.The conversation also explores how Spotify’s algorithm works behind the scenes, including the importance of early traction, popularity scores, and listener behavior. Dorian shares actionable strategies for artists to maximize campaigns, build momentum across platforms, and avoid common mistakes that can hurt long-term growth.Key TakeawaysWhy playlisting has become the most important driver of music discoveryHow to spot fake playlists and avoid artificial streaming penaltiesWhy engagement matters more than playlist follower countHow Spotify’s algorithm rewards early traction and listener consistencyThe growing role of AI in music creation and its impact on the industryKey Timestamps00:00 - Introduction to the changing landscape of playlisting04:42 - Identifying fraudulent playlists and avoiding artificial streams09:12 - How to create successful independent playlists14:01 - Using social media and ads to build playlist engagement19:58 - Why territories like Brazil and Mexico are critical for growth23:08 - How Spotify’s algorithm works and the importance of early traction28:00 - What genres have the biggest indie playlists?28:54 - The role of digital ads in Groover’s growth strategy30:00 - What people think about AI generated music37:29 - Where to follow Dorian and Groover for more tips and updatesFollow Our Guest, Dorian PerronDorian Perron LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorian-perron-44102177Groover LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heygroover/ Indeflagration LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indeflagration/ Dorian Perron Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorianflagrant/ Groover Music Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/groover.music/ Groover Obsessions Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grooverobsessions/ Groover Website: https://groover.co/en/ Indeflagration Website: https://indeflagration.fr/ Follow the Host, Max Bernstein:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mberns01/X: https://x.com/relationlcoFollow RELATIONL:Website: https://www.relationl.co/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@relationl LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/relationl/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/relationlco/