Tag: artists

From Underground Clubs to Eurovision Fame, GLOW Artist Dana International Inspires and Ignites

June 22, 2023

Dana International defied the odds and the critics when, in 1998, she was selected to represent Israel for Europe’s biggest music event, Eurovision. Her performance of “Diva” captivated the audience in person and at home, and she was crowned contest winner.

Dana’s success on one of the world’s biggest stages is but one example of the Israeli singer’s powerful, dazzling musical presence. Over the past three decades she has released a number of albums and singles and even represented her home country a second time at Eurovision in 2011.

Dana’s perseverance, passion, and talent are just a few of the reasons why she’s one of Spotify’s featured GLOW artists for the month of June. Through GLOW, our global music program celebrating and amplifying LGBTQIA+ artists and creators all year round, we’re supporting Dana International on our platform with a dedicated hub and flagship GLOW playlist, and off our platform via billboards like those in New York City’s Times Square and on the city’s MTA subway system.

From finding her voice to the importance of celebrating Pride, Dana International shares more with For the Record below.

Tell us about your journey into music. How did you find your voice?

I released my first song almost 30 years ago. I was very content to have one hit song—I believed that someone like me couldn’t truly pursue a singing career. As a teenager, I had begun to realize that I was a woman, and that desire was stronger than anything else. Choosing to live as a woman meant giving up on my dreams of living a normative life. That’s when I discovered nightlife. Hiding under the cover of darkness—clubs, music, the exaggerated atmosphere of the 1980s—brought everything to life in Tel Aviv. The night became my refuge.

At the age of 18, I started performing with the drag team at the only gay club that existed in Israel at the time. One day we created a parody of Whitney Houston‘s song “My Name Is Not Susan” and turned it into a humorous Arabic song called “Sa’ida Soltana.” The song became a summer hit in Israel. After that song, I released a second solo song, followed by my first album. The album was quite successful, so, against all odds, I released three more. I became the singer of the year twice and sold gold and platinum albums.

The beginning of my career wasn’t easy. There were performances where people spat on me, cursed me, and threw trash at me. But it only gave me strength and motivated me to continue. After two years, I became one of the most successful singers in an early 1990s Israel that was mostly conservative. Soon, I started receiving offers for a TV series, a movie, and a musical about my life. And in 1998, I was chosen to represent Israel in Eurovision.

What was it like performing at Eurovision for the first time?

As soon as it was announced, there was a big controversy in Israel. It wasn’t easy for me, and I admit that there were moments when it shook me. But I won first place with the song “Diva.” My life changed that night of the victory. I returned to Israel to pack a suitcase, and then I traveled to Europe and lived there for almost a year. The media in England declared that the new pop queen was born, but I suffered greatly.

How did your life change after winning the competition?

I became a media star. All the entertainment shows and news programs in Europe wanted me, but the interviewers felt entitled to pry into my life in a way they wouldn’t dare to do today. They invaded my privacy, and I provided them with everything they wanted to hear, overflowing with smiles and charm. But inside, it deeply offended me. I was publicized as a singer who won Eurovision. Why are you only interested in my sexuality and gender? How dare you talk to me about things you wouldn’t discuss with other female singers? I felt like I was living in a gilded cage.

So I returned to Israel to gather my strength and then released an intimate album that was different from anything I had done before.

What are you up to now?

At the age of 55, I am still onstage. I have become a gay icon, and it feels strange and somewhat overwhelming because I don’t want to be seen solely through that lens.

From all the musical activity and hundreds of performances worldwide, the joyful successes and the painful failures, the achievements, the awards, and the journey, the thing I’m most proud of and what I truly understand to be the most important is when people—of all ages, in all languages, from all over the world—approach me and say: “You changed my life. You gave me the strength to believe in myself. I realized I’m not alone. You were with me in the toughest and loneliest moments.” Very few artists truly manage to change something in the world, to change lives and help those who are struggling. Only in recent years have I truly understood this and realized that it’s much more important than whether my new song succeeds or not.

Why is it important to amplify LGBTQIA+ voices year-round?

I believe that queer culture disperses a lot of color, sensitivity, and interesting and different perspectives in the world. It’s known that even during periods when people didn’t come out of the closet, writers, poets, singers, and gay artists brought the world great and important cultural creations. The world would be much grayer and much more boring if the voices of our community weren’t heard. Our community is the decoration committee of the world, but we’re not only that.

What’s one thing fans might be surprised to learn about you?

This whole character of mine is a big show. I’m not satisfied with my character. I hate flashy designer clothes and makeup. My battle is when I go up onstage. I don’t feel brave, and I’m very shy in my everyday life. In that period at the beginning of my career when I fought for my right to be onstage and sing, I created this shining, radiant, and audacious character of Dana International.

There’ve been so many advances in LGBTQIA+ rights and representation in the last decade. Why is it still important to celebrate Pride?

It’s important for all those children and teenagers who are sitting at home right now, afraid of who they are, afraid to tell their parents and friends at school, and feeling sad and alone. In every Pride parade, we tell them, “You’re not alone, we’re with you,” and we embrace them. Since Eurovision, I have appeared in Pride parades all over the world. And still, I get extremely excited about Pride parade performances. I think it’s important for us and for the children who used to be scared and embarrassed, too. Once a year, we celebrate our Pride holiday, where we spread the message of love, acceptance, equality, and the freedom to be who you are.

What do you hope audiences take away from your music?

In one of my songs, I sang, “My joy is my protest.” I come from a difficult place, and it was very easy to sink into sadness and give up. My songs are happy. Pop music that reminds us of the beautiful and joyful side of the world. Pop songs are generally considered light and shallow, but I believe that happiness also holds a lot of power. It’s hard for me to express pain; I don’t cry. In life and in my music, I don’t cry. My message is that despite everything, we are obligated to find joy. I try to bring happiness to people and also find joy within myself, and it’s not always easy.

How does music empower queer communities?

I believe that music influences everyone. In my eyes, it’s the true prayer of humanity. We, as a community, are much more dramatic and sensitive, and I think music plays a much bigger role in our lives.

Catch Dana International and many other LGBTQIA+ artists this month and all year round on our flagship GLOW playlist.

‘CAN You Hear Me’ Spotlights Northern Cree, a Legendary Canadian Powwow Act Preserving Indigenous Culture Through Music

June 21, 2023

In celebration of Canadian artistry, For the Record recently launched CAN You Hear Me, a series championing the music, unique talent, and diverse cultures found in the Great White North—from the jazz bars in Québec to the dance clubs in Ontario, all the way to the powwows in the west.

Next up in our series is Northern Cree, a powwow and round dance act based in Maskwacis, Alberta. Widely regarded as one of the best acts in powwow music, the group was formed in 1982 by the Wood brothers—Steve, Randy, Charlie, and Earl of the Saddle Lake Cree Nation. Today, most of its 15 members originate from all across the Treaty 6 territory and are members of the Cree Nation.

Forty years in, the legendary act has recorded dozens of albums—and their influence has reached far and wide. The DJ Shub track “Indomitable” featuring the band was selected by Sacha Baron Cohen as the theme song to his Showtime series, Who Is America?, while M.I.A. and Santigold sampled Northern Cree for their 2008 song “Get It Up.”

Since 2002, Northern Cree has been nominated for nine Grammy Awards and three Juno Awards. In 2017, the collective made history when it became the first powwow group to perform at the Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles. Most recently, they played at the 2023 Juno Awards ceremony alongside Aysanabee in Edmonton, Alberta.

For the Record spoke with Steve Wood and his son Joel Wood to discuss powwow traditions, their greatest inspirations, and the importance of preserving Indigenous history and culture through music.

What are some of the traditional elements of powwow music and dance? How do these come through in your music?

The instruments are created from things that are natural and land-based. The music’s vocals and lyrics are connected spiritually to our history and ancestors. The drum is referred to as “the heartbeat of Mother Earth,” and that is what connects all human beings to one another, everything living on the planet, and the earth itself. The outfits—or regalia—reflect our history, spirituality, and cultural teachings. These are also created from objects that are land-based, such as plant and animal life.

This type of music is so different when you’re able to hear it in a live setting, because you can really feel the energy. We often hear from people who are standing around the drum or near the drum or in the area that you can feel the energy that’s being made there—it’s doing something to them. If we’re doing that, if we’re making people feel good, then we’re doing our job.

How has Spotify helped you expand your music to a broader audience or connect with other artists?

Spotify has helped us reach audiences, within the borders of Turtle Island [North America] and all over the world, that have never heard our type of music before. It helps connect our group to various First Nations communities, as well as other communities in Canada and the U.S.

Spotify has also played a part in enabling mainstream artists to sample our music, which has led to collaborations that create a new, unique sound.

Who are some fellow Canadian artists that have inspired you? How about Indigenous artists from areas around the world?

Our biggest influences are our grandfathers and fathers, who used to play or create this type of music in our homes when we were children. Another one of our biggest influences is Ms. Buffy Sainte-Marie. Whenever we cross paths, we affectionately refer to her as “Mom,” and she refers to us as her “boys.”

There’s also the late great Gord Downie of The Tragically Hip, whom we had the pleasure of opening for on Canada Day in Trafalgar Square in London. He was one awesome musician, not to mention an extraordinary human being. Other spectacular musicians that have influenced Northern Cree are Robbie Robertson, as well as Pat Vegas and his First Nations band Redbone.

Can you speak to why it’s so important to preserve Indigenous cultures and traditions and pass those down to future generations?

Passing down our culture helps us in maintaining our language, which is something that we’re really striving to hold on to as First Nations peoples. Everything is rooted in language for us—our identity, culture, histories, ceremonies, and where we come from.

One of the ways that our young people, and even other people, are picking up our language is through music. Having our music out there sends a message to our young people. They can aspire to pick up a guitar or a fiddle, or play the piano. So, if we can spread our language amongst our people—or even further—that’s a good thing for our people in general.

When they see what we’re doing—performing at the Grammys, at the Junos, at powwows in various parts of the country—it sends a message that they can believe in who they are, where they come from, their culture, their identity, and most importantly, their language. They can be who they are, they don’t have to emulate anyone else, and they can still aspire to great things.

That’s one of the biggest messages that we hope to send not only to our young people, but people in general.

Check out Northern Cree’s latest album, Ôskimacîtahowin: A New Beginning, to experience the power of powwow.

Spotify’s Innovative Fuego Playlist Turns Fans Into Music Curators

May 10, 2023

Spotify’s Fuego has been red hot since launching last year, with surprise updates each week redefining how listeners discover Latin music. But continuously alerting fans to hot new music isn’t the only thing that sets Fuego apart. The compilation of songs is a result of open and collaborative curation between music editors and guest curators. Now Spotify is taking Fuego and its archive of weekly mixtapes to the next level by giving users the chance to curate the playlist themselves, for the first time ever.

Listeners can submit their own music lineup by visiting the Fuego Mixtape microsite. From there, select playlists will have the chance to be featured as the Fuego playlist of the week. This adds a new way to engage with favorite tracks and share them with others.

Creating an opportunity for user-generated playlists is just one of the many ways Fuego is taking music curation in a new direction. In the past, Fuego has featured guest artist curators like Feid, Myke Towers, and Eladio Carrion. In the coming months, Fuego will expand the helm to playlist takeovers from influencers like Jess Judith, Santea, and Sofia Bella.

Spotify Hosts Summits in Germany To Bring Creators and Industry Professionals Together

April 24, 2023

a group of participants standing on stage at the all ears summit

Last week, hundreds of artists, publishers, creators, and individuals working in the audio industry met up in Germany for Spotify’s All Ears Podcast Summit and All Music Friday Summit. The events offered a chance for attendees to hear from experts in their fields and gain insights on reaching larger audiences across podcasting and music.

Welcoming the podcast industry to Wilhelm Hallen

The 2023 All Ears Podcast Summit made history as the largest-ever podcast event in Germany. Experts from production, marketing, publishing, and advertising presented, shared advice, and connected. The conference, which spanned five stages at the Wilhelm Hallen conference center, included panels, interviews, workshops, and live podcast recordings.

For the Record had the chance to talk to Saruul Krause-Jentsch, Spotify’s Head of Podcast in Germany, who shared more about the summit.

“Podcasts are an important audio entertainment medium in Germany, about which, in which, and with which there is a lot of discussion,” she noted. “We generally take great pleasure in exchanging ideas with all our partners, creators, and competitors. Spotify is the most important podcast pioneer in Germany, not only because of our great content, but also because of the technology and tools we have available for creators. This event helps guide the conversation of the future of podcasting while also sharing more about our creator-focused mission with Spotify for Podcasters.”

‘Ya Salam,’ the New Track Bringing Together the Best of Moroccan Beats and UK Drill

April 14, 2023

cover art for the song ya salam that depicts all 7 artists' faces etched into a giant stone wall

What do you get when you bring seven artists from countries across North Africa to London to collaborate? In our case, the answer is a new drill-inspired hit, “Ya Salam.” But the track is more than a catchy beat featuring smooth rap flows and a gospel choir: At its core, the song represents the culture of the Maghreb diaspora communities.

This production, created in partnership with Spotify’s Noteable studio, is about empowering the next generation of creators, especially the independent artists who make up the music industry in North Africa. “Music in our region is currently living in one of its most exciting eras; it is getting exported and connecting with new fans beyond borders like never before,” shared Naoufal El Amrani, Senior Artist & Label Partnerships Manager for Maghreb. “With our global reach and commitment to helping artists grow their fan bases, we wanted to invest our resources into ‘Ya Salam’ to bring these diverse and incredible creators together in one space to make magic.”

Collaboration will only nurture the next generation of creators and open new opportunities for them. “There is North African representation in U.K. music, but not as much as there should be,” shared Algerian-born, London-based singer-songwriter Miraa May. “So whenever there are other people who are trying to do the same thing [that I want to do], I immediately flock to them.”

Listeners will hear the voices and influences of Miraa May along with Flomine, Smallx, Ard Adz, YP, BLESSED, and Sybka featured throughout the song, which merges Moroccan sounds with U.K. drill and gospel sounds.

“Collaboration is more than just music,” explained YP, who hails from the U.S. but has parents of Moroccan and Filipino descent. “It’s something that we want to instill in the next generation, and the generation after.”

Hear from the artist themselves in the video below.

Want more hits like “Ya Salam”? Check out our Hot Hit Maghreb playlist.

Spotify Turns Up the Volume in Pakistan With Events and Music Campaigns

April 6, 2023

an artist performs on stage at a concert event

Two years ago, we introduced Spotify to listeners in Pakistan. Since the launch, we’ve worked with the country’s artists to expand their reach and share their music with new fans worldwide—and now we’re taking things to a new level.

March marked the first anniversary of our EQUAL women’s empowerment program in Pakistan, with singer Tina Sani as the Ambassador of the Month. RADAR, which highlights emerging artists from all around the world, also recently made its debut in Pakistan, featuring Taha G up first. He’s at the top of the RADAR Pakistan playlist, and Spotify worked with the singer to create a mini-documentary that spotlights his life and career.

In addition to bringing these programs to the region, we’re finding unique ways—from Masterclasses to cricket campaigns to local playlists—to connect with artists.

Lending artists support with a Masterclass in Lahore

Our music industry experts were ready to share their knowledge during a Spotify for Artists Masterclass event in Lahore, PK. “We hosted at the historical Haveli Barood Khana mansion, and used this opportunity to educate and share information on music streaming trends and new product features with the burgeoning music industry in the region,” shared Khan FM, Artist and Label Partnerships Manager for Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. Renowned Coke Studio music producer, curator and artist Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan shared his perspective on the Pakistani music industry with an audience that included more than 150 artists and their teams.

Creators and Fans Celebrate the Playfulness of Wrapped Around the World

December 8, 2022

a DJ playing music at a wrapped event in pakistan

In case you missed it, last week Spotify unveiled 2022 Wrapped. To toast the highly anticipated year-end toplist reveals, the unparalleled user and creator experiences, and the beloved data stories, we hosted Wrapped-themed parties in cities across the globe. This year’s Wrapped is all about self-expression and play—celebrating the two-way connections that bring millions of creators and fans together through audio each and every day. From Paris to Karachi, our events invited fans, creators, and influencers to celebrate how they listened in 2022, and encouraged them to revel in activities that highlighted their music listening personalities.

France

For its 2022 year-end retrospective, Spotify France opened the doors of its Wrapped Café, a temporary space in Paris’ 10th arrondissement. The pop-up space gave fans a new way to extend their Wrapped experience into real life. Visitors had the chance to control the venue’s playlist, get a personalized Wrapped Café t-shirt, capture the night in a photobooth with custom audio personality filters, and play Wrapped-themed arcade games.

Over the course of the four-day event, French artists and podcast creators performed at the café. Fans had the chance to enjoy performances by rapper Fresh la Peufra, singer and EQUAL ambassador Chilla, and artist Bianca Costa. Attendees also took part in a live recording of the Spotify Original history podcast Oyez, Oh Yeah with cohosts Manon Bril and Alex Ramires.

German Artists Milky Chance, Robin Schulz, and Felix Jaehn Join the Billions Club on Spotify

November 17, 2022

Photo Credit: Viktor Schanz

What does it take to break into Spotify’s “One Billion Streams Club?” A lot of talent and a bevy of passionate fans who just can’t get enough. When an artist has a track that reaches a billion streams on Spotify, their song is featured on the BILLIONS CLUB playlist. Now, a new collection of German artists—the first to do so—can add this milestone to their careers. Get to know them below.

Milky Chance

Photo credit: Anthony Molina

Hailing from the Hessian town of Kassel, Milky Chance is the first German band to have a song reach 1 billion streams on Spotify. Their song “Stolen Dance” was recorded at the childhood home of the band’s lead vocalist, Clemens Rehbein. After publishing the song online in 2013, it soon became an international hit, reaching the top of the charts in more than a dozen countries.

“If someone had told us 10 years ago that this song would reach 1 billion streams, we wouldn’t have believed it. We still have to pinch ourselves from time to time,” said the band. “The magnitude of that number is incredibly hard to comprehend. We’re extremely grateful and want to thank our fans for their huge ongoing support.”

Since “Stolen Dance,” Milky Chance has released three critically acclaimed studio albums and recorded more than 5 billion total streams on Spotify.

Robin Schulz

Photo Credit: Philipp Gladsome

Musician, DJ, and record producer Robin Schulz has seen unparalleled success thanks to his talent for emotional melodies and beats. With more than 450 gold, platinum, and diamond awards—in 30 countries—it’s no surprise he can now add the “One Billion Stream Club” to his list of accolades. His track “Sugar (feat. Francesco Yates)” was released in 2015, and the catchy tune has racked up more than a billion streams. Most recently, Robin has collaborated with Dennis Lloyd (“Young Right Now”), Justin Quiles (“AEIOU”), and David Guetta (“On Repeat”) to release a series of dance-worthy tracks. All together, the artist has seen more than 10.5 billion streams on Spotify.

Felix Jaehn

Dance DJ and producer Felix Jaehn became a household name in 2015 with his house reinterpretation of Chaka Khan’s classic “Ain’t Nobody (Loves Me Better) (feat. Jasmine Thompson).” He reached new heights when, in the same year, he released his remix of Omi’s “Cheerleader.” The track reached number one in 55 countries and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart for five consecutive weeks. The song’s success resulted in Felix’s becoming one of the most in-demand electronic acts in the world. Since then, he has continuously produced pop dance hits that dominate playlists, dancefloors, and airwaves around the world. To date Felix has racked up over 200 gold and platinum certifications and amassed over 10 million streams on Spotify.

These newly welcomed artists prove that there’s a lot of impressive musical talent emerging from Germany.

To listen to more tracks from artists around the globe that boast at least 1 billion streams, check out our BILLIONS CLUB playlist.

Despedimos a Casa Spotify Medallo con una fiesta de reggaetón y presentamos Sonido Perpetuo, un estudio de grabación para artistas emergentes de Medellín

November 14, 2022

a photo of a performance on stage with a crowd cheering

A un mes de que Casa Spotify Medallo abriera sus puertas, celebramos la culminación del proyecto con el mejor talento de Medellín y sus fieles seguidores. El 3 de noviembre, Spotify llevó el perreo a las calles del distrito creativo de Medellín, Perpetuo Socorro, al invitar a más de 1200 fanáticos a bailar los éxitos de Feid, Ryan Castro, Blessd, Farina, Sky Rompiendo, y Nath.

La noche de Perreo Perpetuo comenzó con la presentación de Juan Sinatra, elegido entre varios artistas que visitaron la residencia creativa durante el pasado mes.

La fiesta siguió al ritmo de Blessd, que hizo bailar al público con tracks de su nuevo álbum Siempre Blessd. Esta fiesta fue la primera vez que se escucharon muchos de sus nuevos temas, y también interpretó algunos de sus famosos éxitos como “Medallo” y “Tendencia Global“.

Más tarde los fans disfrutaron de un set de Nath, artista RADAR Andinos, con hits como “Pasajero”. La inigualable Farina, quien visitó Casa Spotify Medallo como embajadora del programa EQUAL, subió la energía del show con éxitos como “Bendecido” y “Trakatá”

Ryan Castro prendió la fiesta con hits como “Jordan” y “Monastery“. Antes de despedirse, sorprendió a los fans invitando a Farina a unirse para el track “Fiesta“. El ritmo no paró cuando el productor Sky Rompiendo se apoderó de las consolas para poner a todos a perrear.

Finalmente, como acto principal para la noche, Feid salió al escenario para cantar hits como “Normal” y “Prohibidox” de más reciente álbum, FELIZ CUMPLEAÑOS FERXXO.

Sonido Perpetuo, un estudio de grabación para artistas emergentes de Medellín

Aunque Casa Medallo ha llegado a su fin, todavía hay mucho más para Medellín. Corporación Perpetuo Socorro, Comfama y Spotify se asocian para proporcionar a la ciudad un estudio de grabación público para fortalecer y elevar el ecosistema musical y de audio de Medellín. A través de esta iniciativa, el talento artístico y creativo local tendrá un mejor acceso a las herramientas que necesitan.

El estudio, que llevará el nombre de Sonido Perpetuo, abrirá sus puertas a mediados de enero del próximo año en el distrito creativo Perpetuo Socorro, un ecosistema dedicado a las economías creativas y culturales de la ciudad.

Sonido Perpetuo será el primer estudio público de la ciudad que brindará una experiencia profesional a los creadores de Medellín. Esto permitirá continuar con el legado de la “ciudad de la eterna primavera” en la industria de la música.

La marca de ropa TRUE, creada por la diseñadora Daniela Valencia, también se une a esta iniciativa, por medio de una colección con Spotify. Las utilidades en la venta de las prendas serán destinadas al montaje del estudio.

“En Spotify nos sentimos orgullosos de colaborar con empresas y organizaciones para apoyar a creadores emergentes de Medellín”, dijo Mia Nygren, directora general para Spotify en Latinoamérica. “Nos emociona construir sobre esta iniciativa para celebrar a esta vibrante comunidad e impulsar a una nueva generación de talento colombiano.”

Mientras cerramos las puertas de la Casa Medallo, estamos abriendo las de Sonido Perpetuo, y dejando una infraestructura pública que ayudará a los creadores de audio de la ciudad.

Presentamos una serie de Spotify Singles con el flow del reggaetón paisa

Medellín es un hub para la producción de música urbana, por lo que resulta natural que lancemos una serie especial de Spotify Singles con algunos de los artistas que visitaron Casa Spotify Medallo. Escúchalos a continuación.

Ovy on the Drums, conocido por sus colaboraciones con Karol G, presentó “Empeliculados” junto a artistas emergentes ZARAMAY y Elniko Arias.

Nath, artista RADAR Andinos, sorprendió a sus fans con “El Mood”, un track de fiesta con flow de reggaetón característico de Medellín.

El legendario Ryan Castro lanzó “Nadie nos Vio” junto a DJ Luian y Mambo Kingz. El track sigue un beat pesado de reggaetón y rimas características del auto proclamado “cantante del ghetto”.

Andy Rivera ofreció un remix de su propia canción “Espina de Rosa” en una versión más acústica y con un piano que le da vida a la balada.

Por último, pero no menos importante, Farina lanzó una canción de perreo suave, “La HP“, que captura todo su flow y personalidad magnética.

Si buscás más, descubre los sonidos de Medellín en nuestra playlist FINO

Casa Spotify Medallo Brings Together the Finest Talent in Medellín

October 13, 2022

image of colombian artists with the text Casa Medallo over it

It’s no surprise that Medellín has become an epicenter of Latin music. The sound of the city, which adopted reggaeton as its own a couple of decades ago, echoes around the world thanks to stars like J Balvin and KAROL G.

At Spotify, we’re taking our support of Colombian talent to the next level with Casa Spotify Medallo. Located in Plaza Botero across from the Museum of Antioquia, a venue that holds historical importance for the city’s rich musical tradition, the four-week program will become a meeting place for both stars and emerging talent in the urban genre. From artists and producers to composers and podcast hosts, creators across the industry are invited.

A bevy of performances and programs for artists

Between October 11 and November 3, the venue will house recording studios and a space for live performances with a lineup that includes Ryan Castro, Farina, and Ovy On The Drums. All the artists will be performing new music for their fans, beginning with “Empeliculados” from Ovy On The Drums, featuring ZARAMAY and Elniko Arias. The soon-to-be hits will be available in a special series of Spotify Singles within the next month.

In addition, a selection of loyal fans will have the opportunity for a meet and greet with some of the artists, like Feid, Blessd, and Farina.

This generation of artists has cemented the country’s reputation as a talent-exporting powerhouse.

Medellín is also the mecca of musical production in the urban genre. Casa Spotify Medallo will bring together composers and producers behind the hits that are conquering the Spotify charts in both Latin America and around the world. Ovy On The Drums, The Rudeboyz, Sky Rompiendo, and SOG will present a series of keynotes where they share their advice with up and coming producers.

A place for songwriters to hone their craft

As part of Spotify’s Noteable program, The Rudeboyz (a producer duo formed by Chan El Genio and Kevin ADG and who are behind hits like Maluma‘s “Hawaii” and Shakira‘s “Me Enamoré”) will conduct a three-day work session where they will work with songwriters like Vibarco, Itzza Primera, and Juan Duque to create new music.

Later in the schedule, these studios will be converted to Noteable rooms and will be open to use for any emerging songwriters, producers, and artists who have registered.

A schedule chock-full of workshops and panels

The heart of Casa Spotify Medallo is a daily program that will offer more than 70 educational and inspirational activities in formats such as workshops and panels. In addition to these courses, we will also launch MUdaL, a learning platform created by Music Ally and Relatable, with the support of Spotify for Artists.

Casa Spotify Medallo is the first initiative of its kind in Latin America focused on providing audio professionals with the tools and educational resources necessary to develop their careers. The program is all-encompassing, covering topics like how to make the best use of Spotify tools and the basics of different aspects of the industry—from publishing rights to tours and marketing.

These sessions also include an EQUAL panel. EQUAL is Spotify’s program that seeks to foster gender equality in the industry, and this panel will feature artists Farina and Mabiland and designer Daniela Valencia, creator of the TRUE brand.

A place for emerging artists and podcast creators to shine

At the launch of Casa Spotify Medallo, we asked emerging artists to submit music for consideration to our editors. Some of these artists will have the opportunity to participate in the Mercadito, a session in alliance with Circulart, the city’s most reputable music industry market. These artists will be able to present their projects and receive feedback from experts.

The venue will also host a showcase with talent from the RADAR Andinos program, the Spotify program that, for more than two years, has put the spotlight on new talent such as Blessd, Nath, and ICON, among others.

Casa Spotify Medallo will offer workshops for up-and-coming podcast creators, and the topics will cover everything from show planning to production to how to use Anchor tools.

“Our goal is to establish Spotify as the home of creators. A place where artists, composers, producers, and creators can develop their careers and live off their art,” says Mia Nygren, General Manager of Spotify in Latin America. “And what better place to make this vision a reality than Medellín, a city that has an enormous influence on the music heard around the world.”

Artists, producers, composers, and podcast creators interested in participating in Casa Spotify Medallo can register and find the complete schedule of activities here.

Spotify’s editorial playlists are perfect for fans looking to discover the emerging sounds of Medellín and the next wave of Paisa talent. Barras 24 features hip-hop, trap, and R&B music; Reggaetoncito highlights the latest pop-reggaeton sounds; and Pa’Perrear spotlights perreo and reggaeton tracks. If you’re not sure where to jump in, we recommend giving Pa’Perrear a listen below:

Casa Spotify Medallo reúne a lo más fino del talento de Medellín

October 13, 2022

image of a colombian artist with the text Casa Medallo over it

No sorprende que Medellín se haya convertido en un epicentro de la música latina. El sonido de la ciudad, que adoptó como propio el reguetón hace un par de décadas, resuena en todo el mundo gracias a estrellas como J Balvin y KAROL G.

En Spotify, estamos llevando nuestro apoyo al talento colombiano al siguiente nivel con Casa Spotify Medallo. Ubicada en la Plaza Botero frente al Museo de Antioquia, un recinto de importancia histórica por la rica tradición musical de la ciudad, el programa de cuatro semanas se convertirá en un lugar de encuentro tanto para estrellas en ascenso como para talentos emergentes del género urbano. Desde artistas y productores hasta compositores y presentadores de podcasts, los creadores que son el alma de la industria están invitados.

Variedad de espectáculos y programas para artistas

Entre el 11 de octubre y el 3 de noviembre, el recinto albergará estudios de grabación y un espacio para presentaciones en vivo con una alineación que incluye a Ryan Castro, Farina y Ovy On The Drums. Todos los artistas interpretarán música nueva para sus fanáticos, comenzando con “Empeliculados” de Ovy On The Drums, con ZARAMAY y Elniko Arias. Los próximos éxitos estarán disponibles en una serie especial de Spotify Singles durante el próximo mes.

Además, los fans más fieles de artistas como Feid, Blessd y Farina en la plataforma tendrán la oportunidad de conocerlos y convivir en un ambiente íntimo.

Esta generación de artistas ha cimentado la reputación del país como una potencia exportadora de talento.

Medellín es también la meca de la producción musical en el género urbano. Casa Spotify Medallo reunirá a los compositores y productores detrás de los éxitos que están conquistando los charts de Spotify, tanto en América Latina como en el mundo. Ovy On The Drums, The Rudeboyz, Sky Rompiendo y SOG estarán presentes una serie de charlas donde compartirán sus consejos con productores emergentes.

Un lugar para que los compositores perfeccionen su oficio

Como parte del programa Noteable de Spotify, The Rudeboyz (dúo de productores formado por Chan El Genio y Kevin ADG que están detrás de éxitos como “Hawaii” de Maluma y “Me Enamoré” de Shakira) realizarán una sesión de trabajo de tres días en la que que trabajarán con compositores como Vibarco, Itzza Primera y Juan Duque para crear nueva música.

Más adelante en el calendario, estos estudios se convertirán en salas Noteable y estarán abiertos para que los usen los compositores, productores y artistas emergentes que se hayan registrado.

Una agenda repleta de talleres y paneles

El corazón de Casa Spotify Medallo es un programa diario que ofrecerá más de 70 actividades educativas e inspiradoras en formatos como talleres y paneles. Además de estos cursos, también lanzaremos MUdaL, una plataforma de aprendizaje creada por Music Ally y Relatable, con el apoyo de Spotify para Artistas.

Casa Spotify Medallo es la primera iniciativa de su tipo en América Latina enfocada en brindar a los profesionales del audio las herramientas y los recursos educativos necesarios para desarrollar sus carreras. El programa cubre temas como cómo hacer el mejor uso de las herramientas de Spotify y los conceptos básicos de diferentes aspectos de la industria, desde los derechos de publicación hasta las giras y el marketing.

Estas sesiones también incluyen un panel EQUAL. EQUAL es el programa de Spotify que busca fomentar la igualdad de género en la industria, y este panel contará con las artistas Farina y Mabiland junto a la diseñadora Daniela Valencia, creadora de la marca TRUE.

Un lugar para que brillen los artistas emergentes y los creadores de podcasts

En el lanzamiento de Casa Spotify Medallo, les pedimos a los artistas emergentes que enviaran música para la consideración de nuestros editores. Algunos de estos artistas tendrán la oportunidad de participar en el Mercadito, una sesión en alianza con Circulart, el mercado de la industria musical más reputado de la ciudad. Estos artistas podrán presentar sus proyectos y recibir retroalimentación de expertos.

El recinto también albergará un showcase con talento del programa RADAR Andinos, el programa de Spotify que, desde hace más de dos años, ha puesto el foco en talentos emergentes como Blessd, Nath y ICON, entre otros.

Casa Spotify Medallo también ofrecerá talleres para creadores de podcasts emergentes, desde la planificación del programa hasta la producción, utilizando las herramientas de Anchor.

“Nuestro objetivo es establecer Spotify como el hogar de los creadores. Un lugar donde artistas, compositores, productores y creadores puedan desarrollar sus carreras y vivir de su arte”, dice Mia Nygren, Gerente General de Spotify en América Latina. “Y qué mejor lugar para hacer realidad esta visión que Medellín, una ciudad que tiene una enorme influencia en la música que se escucha en todo el mundo”.

Los artistas, productores, compositores y creadores de podcasts interesados en participar en Casa Spotify Medallo pueden registrarse y encontrar el cronograma completo de actividades aquí.

Las playlists editoriales de Spotify son perfectas para los fanáticos que buscan descubrir los sonidos emergentes de Medellín y la próxima ola de talento paisa. Barras 24 presenta música hip-hop, trap y R&B; Reggaetoncito destaca los últimos sonidos pop-reggaeton; y Pa’Perrear destaca pistas de perreo y reggaeton. Si no estás seguro de dónde empezar, te recomendamos que escuches a Pa’Perrear a continuación:

One Year and More Than 184 Markets Later, Spotify’s EQUAL Program Continues To Celebrate Women Artists Around the World

April 1, 2022

400 ambassadors. 184 markets. 13 million hours of listening. 35 playlists. These numbers represent the powerful impact of Spotify’s EQUAL program over the past year.

Since its launch, EQUAL has shined a spotlight on women artists through global partnerships, activations, new content experiences, and on- and off-platform support—all created to foster equity for women in audio and celebrate their contributions. On Spotify, listeners can find the EQUAL Hub, which is a dedicated space to highlight women creators. The EQUAL Global Music Program extends resources and opportunities to women artists and amplifies their music through the flagship EQUAL Global playlist and EQUAL local playlists.

On the platform, it’s clear our listeners are big fans of the women who are featured in our EQUAL campaigns. Take a look at some of the things EQUAL artists have achieved over the last year.

Plus, here are just a handful of accomplishments from EQUAL ambassadors and local market initiatives:

Seven of EQUAL’s Polish ambassadors have been nominated for the Fryderyk award this year.
Five of EQUAL’s Dutch ambassadors have been nominated for the Edison Award this year.
EQUAL French ambassadors Juliette Armanet and Barbara Pravi were both nominated for Victoire de la Musique awards, the French GRAMMY equivalent, with Barbara winning her category.
Three EQUAL U.K. ambassadors were nominated for BRIT Awards.
Last year in Spain, we hosted a roundtable called “EQUAL ESPANA” where singer-songwriter Rozalén and Spotify’s Head of Music for Southern Europe, Melanie Parejo, came together to discuss the importance of women in the Spanish music industry.
In Japan, two new playlists are launching in the market to celebrate EQUAL’s first anniversary: Curated by Women and EQUAL Anime.
In Colombia, Spotify is taking EQUAL to the stage for the first time. Throughout the month of April, across seven performances, Spotify will bring together 13 outstanding artists including EQUAL Colombia ambassadors Goyo, Paola Jara, Lido Pimienta, Andrea Echeverri, Elsa y Elmar, Ventino, and more to make a statement for gender equality at full volume.

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We know this is only the beginning of bringing women creators front and center. Spotify will continue to highlight and amplify women’s voices by curating top audio destinations for women artists with global playlists like EQUAL: K-Pop, EQUAL: Indie, Women of Rock, and Galdem – Queens. As we reflect on EQUAL’s first year, we know there’s more work to be done and Spotify is committed to fostering equity in the music industry and beyond.

Now that you know all about EQUAL, it’s time to celebrate the program’s anniversary by listening to the EQUAL Global playlist below.