Spotify Codes are scannable images that open content inside Spotify.

They can link to a song, album, artist profile or playlist, making them useful on posters, merchandise and physical promotional materials.

They work best when placed in situations where fans already have a reason to engage.

How to create a Spotify Code

Open the relevant content in Spotify and copy its link.

Use Spotify’s code-generation feature to create the scannable image.

Before publishing it:

  • Test it on several phones
  • Keep the image clear
  • Leave sufficient empty space around it
  • Avoid stretching it
  • Make sure printed versions are large enough
  • Include a written instruction

Not everyone will immediately recognise what the code does.

Where should musicians use them?

Gig posters

Link to your latest release or artist profile.

Place a clear message nearby, such as:

Scan to hear the new single.

Merchandise

A code can appear on:

  • T-shirts
  • Stickers
  • Postcards
  • Vinyl inserts
  • CDs
  • Tote bags
  • Tour programmes

Consider whether the linked destination will remain relevant for the life of the product.

Live shows

Display a code:

  • At the merchandise table
  • On screens before the show
  • Near the exit
  • On table cards
  • Inside the venue programme

Ask fans to follow or save rather than simply opening the song once.

Press materials

A code can provide quick access to music from a printed press kit or event programme.

For emailed materials, use a normal clickable link as well.

The major tracking limitation

A direct Spotify Code sends people straight to Spotify.

That is convenient, but you may have limited information about:

  • Which poster generated the scan
  • Where the fan was located
  • Whether different campaigns performed differently
  • Whether the person wanted another platform
  • Whether they joined your mailing list

For more complete campaign tracking, link a normal QR code to a smart link.

Combine codes with smart links

A PUSH.fm smart link can offer several platforms and provide campaign-level click information.

You could use:

  • A Spotify Code for direct Spotify listening
  • A QR code for all-platform options
  • A short written URL as a backup

This gives fans a choice.

Run location-specific campaigns

Create separate campaign links for:

  • Individual venues
  • Different cities
  • Posters
  • Merchandise
  • Press packs
  • Street-team activity

You can then compare performance.

Give people a reason to scan

A code alone is not a campaign.

Add context:

  • Hear the unreleased demo
  • Save the tour playlist
  • Listen to tonight’s set
  • Follow before the next song
  • Unlock the acoustic version

The best physical-to-digital campaigns exchange immediate value for attention.

Spotify Codes reduce friction. Smart links and clear calls to action help turn that first scan into something measurable.