Weighted rotation lets you control how often certain playlists play without setting up a schedule. Assign a rotation level to each playlist, and CloudRadio picks from them proportionally during unscheduled time.
How it works
When no scheduled event is active, CloudRadio checks for playlists with a rotation level set. If any exist, all playback comes from those playlists, selected proportionally by weight. This replaces library shuffle entirely once at least one weighted playlist is configured.
Rotation levels
Set the rotation level in the playlist editor under Settings > Fallback level:
| Level | Weight value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Off | 0 | This playlist doesn’t participate in rotation. |
| Light | 1 | Lower share of airtime. |
| Medium | 3 | Moderate share of airtime. |
| Heavy | 5 | Largest share of airtime. |
The actual percentage each playlist gets depends on how many weighted playlists you have and their relative levels.
Examples
Single weighted playlist
You have one playlist called “Hot Tracks” set to Heavy. During unscheduled time, all tracks come from Hot Tracks.
Multiple weighted playlists
You have three playlists:
| Playlist | Level | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Tracks | Heavy | 5 |
| Chill Vibes | Medium | 3 |
| Throwbacks | Light | 1 |
Total weight: 9. CloudRadio picks proportionally:
- Hot Tracks: ~56% of selections (5/9)
- Chill Vibes: ~33% (3/9)
- Throwbacks: ~11% (1/9)
When rotation is active
Weighted rotation plays during unscheduled time. If a scheduled event or live broadcast is active, those take priority. When they end, weighted rotation resumes.
See Automation for the complete priority chain.
Tips
- Start with one or two weighted playlists and adjust levels based on what you hear.
- Use Heavy for playlists you want to dominate unscheduled time (new releases, station identity tracks).
- Use Light for variety playlists that should appear occasionally (deep cuts, themed selections).
- Weighted rotation works well alongside a partial schedule. Schedule your peak hours and let rotation handle the rest.
Related
- Automation for how the three automation layers work together
- Playlists to create and manage playlists
- Schedule to assign playlists to specific time slots