Tag: billie eilish

Top EQUAL Artist INNA Reflects On a Standout Year

November 29, 2023

Today we kicked off 2023 Spotify Wrapped, our annual campaign that celebrates fans and creators worldwide. And as the good vibes keep coming, we look back on a successful year of EQUAL, which included speaking events, festivals, and both local and global playlists featuring a large roster of talented EQUAL ambassadors. We’re thrilled to announce that Romanian superstar INNA is the most-streamed artist within the EQUAL Global playlist in 2023.

In 2020, Spotify created EQUAL, a global initiative that aims to eliminate the existing gender gap in the music industry so that women artists, composers, and producers have the representation and visibility they deserve. Since then, week after week, we’ve been raising the volume on women artists locally and internationally.

Along with being named an EQUAL Global ambassador back in April, INNA had quite a landmark 2023. Her Dhurata Dora and Stefflon Don collaborations for the track “Yummy” pleased fans—as did the release of a 10-song EP of remixes for her revival of the 1997 Sash! hit “Rock My Body.” The house music star also released a two-part studio album, Just Dance #DQH1 and Just Dance #DQH2, which showcases an ambitious new direction in the artist’s career, combining elements of other genres and sounds as part of the Dance Queen’s House project.

For the Record caught up with INNA to talk about being the top EQUAL artist, her Wrapped for Artists insights, and her plans for 2024.

What was your reaction to finding out that you’re this year’s top EQUAL artist?

It was a huge surprise! I want to thank everyone who listens to my music and supports me. It’s an absolute honor to have so many people who are there for me. As an artist, this is the love I need to feel! I’m so happy about this!

How has dance music changed since your debut single, “Hot,” topped the charts in 2009?

There are more and more dance artists in the world now, and a lot of DJs doing dance and EDM songs. It’s an expanding genre that has seen and will continue to see a lot of growth.

I’ve also changed quite a lot. In that time I made it a point to experience different collaborations, genres, and sounds in my music.

What were some of your 2023 highlights?

2023 was such a great year. My collaboration with R3HAB for “Rock My Body” conquered the charts and became a hit. I released a new album, Just Dance, featuring the music I worked on for the Dance Queen’s House project. And, of course, so many concerts. I couldn’t be more grateful for all that’s happened in 2023. Bring it on, 2024! I’m ready for you!

Tell us about Just Dance, which you’ve previously described as a refresh from your past and an important step in your evolution as an artist.

When we started, we were brainstorming, thinking how this album should sound. And overall we felt that we needed a different vibe and a whole new approach, so we changed the dynamic. I’m honestly super excited about how it all came together. The album complements my 2023 tour on the stages of the biggest electro dance festivals in the world.

What insights have you been able to take away from previous years of Artist Wrapped?

My team and I always pay attention to everything to improve our work. We work hard to make the most out of the Artist Wrapped insights to create more and more music that resonates with more people.

Which women artists do you currently have in your On Repeat playlist?

I always have P!nk on repeat, she is fabulous, one of my favorite artists ever. Some other women artists are ROSALÍA, FKA Twigs, Billie Eilish, Dhurata Dora, and SZA.

Going into the New Year, what advice do you have for other artists?

Consistency, focus, creativity, inspiration, and a lot of work are important. Surround yourself with people who share the same vibe as you. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun!

What do you have planned for 2024?

There will be a lot of new music coming in 2024. I’ll be releasing a new album written entirely in Spanish. It’s one of the releases I can’t wait for, because it’s an important part of my work and soul and I’ve been working on it for several years. And of course, I’ll be kicking off a tour in the USA in addition to performing concerts in Mexico and Europe.

Listen to the best of the best from the dance queen herself in our This Is INNA playlist.

10 Great Musical Biographies That Tell the Stories Behind Your Favorite Artists

September 29, 2023

Spotify Premium Audiobooks Music Biography

You might know all the songs and albums of your favorite musicians, but do you know the experiences and inspirations behind their work? Luckily, you can find out by listening to some great musical biographies on Spotify.

With picks that include memoirs from legendary stars including Dave Grohl, Billie Eilish, Gucci Mane, and Dolly Parton, you can discover all the wisdom these greats have to share.

The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music

Written and narrated by Dave Grohl

Dave Grohl’s autobiography, The Storyteller, sheds light on what it’s like to be a kid from Springfield, Virginia, who goes on to live out his craziest dreams as a musician. The rock icon reflects on everything from hitting the road with Scream at 18, to his time in Nirvana and the Foo Fighters. He remembers jamming with Iggy Pop and dancing with AC/DC and the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. He tells stories about drumming for Tom Petty and meeting Paul McCartney at Royal Albert Hall. Grohl even recounts unexpected moments like bedtime stories with Joan Jett to a chance meeting with Little Richard.

The Sporty One: My Life as a Spice Girl

Written and narrated by Melanie Chisholm

After five women answered a newspaper ad, the Spice Girls were born. They recorded their first single, “Wannabe,” and nearly overnight, Melanie “Melanie C” Chisholm went from small-town girl to Sporty Spice.

The Sporty One follows the meteoric rise of Melanie C and The Spice Girls, from the incredible highs of playing at Wembley, conquering the BRITs, and closing the 2012 Olympics, to the difficult lows. For the first time ever, Melanie C talks about the pressures of fame, the shaming and bullying she experienced, the struggles she has had with her body image and mental health, and the difficulty of finding herself when the whole world knew her name.

Dolly Parton, Songteller: My Life in Lyrics

Written by Dolly Parton, Robert K. Oermann

Narrated by Dolly Parton

Dolly Parton, Songteller goes beyond the glitz, glamor, and rhinestones to the warmth, heart, and soul of a treasured pop culture icon. In this autobiography, 10-time Grammy Award–winning artist Dolly Parton weaves her words with music and memories to give listeners the stories behind her most cherished songs.

How close did Parton come to singing “I Will Always Love You” as a duet with Elvis Presley? How did she become an actress? And exactly who was “Jolene”? This one-of-a-kind audio experience answers the most burning questions that Parton’s fans have.

The Autobiography of Gucci Mane

Written by Gucci Mane and Neil Martinez-Belkin

Narrated by Guy Lockard

For the first time, hip-hop legend Gucci Mane tells the story of his rise, fall, and redemption in The Autobiography of Gucci Mane. With a string of influential mixtapes and street anthems that pioneered the sound of trap music in the 2000s, the rap icon inspired and mentored a new generation of artists and producers including Migos, Young Thug, Nicki Minaj, Zaytoven, Mike WiLL Made-It, and Metro Boomin.

Taking listeners back to his roots in Alabama, the streets of East Atlanta, and the studio where he found his voice, Gucci Mane reflects on his successes while also confronting his dark past, which included drug addiction, murder charges, and a prison sentence.

But Gucci Mane has changed, and in this music bio, he provides an intimate glimpse into his radical transformation following his 2016 prison release—one that saw the rapper emerge sober, smiling, focused, and positive. This is one of music’s great comeback stories.

Born to Run

Written and narrated by Bruce Springsteen

In 2009, Bruce Springsteen performed at the Super Bowl halftime show. The experience was so exhilarating that he decided to write about it, which then inspired him to tell the story of his entire life.

Vividly recounting his relentless drive to become a musician, his early days as a bar band king in New Jersey, and the rise of The E Street Band, Springsteen fills the pages of Born to Run with humor, originality, and disarming candor. For the first time, the superstar rocker shares the personal struggles that inspired his best work, and shows us why the song “Born to Run” reveals more than we previously realized. This isn’t just a legendary rock star’s memoir. This is a book for anyone who has ever wanted to be baptized in the holy river of rock and roll.

Billie Eilish: In Her Own Words

Written by Billie Eilish

Narrated By Billie Eilish, Maggie Baird, Patrick O’Connell

In this special audiobook companion piece, global pop phenomenon Billie Eilish walks fans through the personal highlights and special moments of her life and career, both on and off the stage.

Billie Eilish: In Her Own Words is full of exclusive and unique content, including memories shared by her parents. Capturing the essence of Billie inside and out, listeners get personal glimpses into her childhood, her life on tour, and more, making this audio edition essential for any fan.

It’s a Long Story: My Life

Written by Willie Nelson and David Ritz

Narrated by Christopher Ryan Grant

It’s a Long Story is the complete, unvarnished story of Willie Nelson‘s life. Told in his distinct voice and leaving no moment or experience unturned, the country legend takes listeners on a ride from Texas and Nashville to Hawaii and his legendary tour bus.

Nelson shines a light on all aspects of his life, including his drive to write music, the women in his life, his biggest collaborations, his lowest lows, and his highest highs—from his bankruptcy to the founding of Farm Aid.

Talking to My Angels

Written and narrated by Melissa Etheridge

Following the success of her first memoir, award-winning rocker and trailblazing LGBTQIA+ icon Melissa Etheridge returns to take stock of her life in the years that have followed.

Talking to My Angels is a profoundly honest look into Etheridge’s inner life as a woman, an artist, a mother, and a survivor. With characteristic wit and courage, Melissa delves into how numerous tragedies served as a catalyst for growth, and what the past two decades have taught her about the value of music, love, family, and life in the face of death. This audiobook also features live, stripped-down performances of many of Melissa’s songs, including “Talking to My Angel” and “Here Comes the Pain.”

Chronicles of the Juice Man: A Memoir

Written by Juicy J and Soren Baker

Narrated by Adam Lazarre-White

The hustle still continues for hip-hop OG Juicy J in Chronicles of the Juice Man, where he shares his invaluable story as an unwavering force in the music industry. Jordan Houston’s rise to stardom was never easy. Beginning with his journey on the streets of Memphis in the ’80s, Juicy J was always inspired by music and had big dreams of becoming a superstar rapper. The Three 6 Mafia member stuck to his plan with determination, rising from a young, poor, ambitious kid to an Academy Award–winning and Grammy-nominated recording artist and entrepreneur. A never-before-seen look into one of the most influential tastemakers in the game, Chronicles of the Juice Man offers Juicy J’s wisdom as a respected industry veteran.

Tell It Like It Is: My Story

Written and narrated by Aaron Neville

Tell It Like It Is shares the trials and tribulations of legendary singer and songwriter Aaron Neville through the lens of his faith, family, and music.

Scoring his first number-one hit in 1966 with “Tell It Like It Is,” the artist went on to form the Neville Brothers with his siblings Art, Charles, and Cyril. Aaron was the breakout star, and over the next six decades, he’s enjoyed four platinum albums, three number-one songs, and entry into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

But few people know the challenging and circuitous road Aaron took to fame. Born in a housing project in New Orleans, he struggled as a teenage father working to raise a family while building his career as a musician, surviving a stint in jail for car theft and battling heroin addiction for many years. Now for the first time, fans can discover the inside story.

Eligible Spotify Premium users in the U.K. and Australia can now look forward to 15 hours of audiobook listening per month on any audiobook marked “Included in Premium.” Learn all about it.

bummer summer Is Spotify’s New Playlist for Gen Z Listeners To Tap Into Their Feels

August 21, 2023

Lana Del Rey’s “Summertime Sadness” stuck in your head? You’re not alone. On Spotify this summer, sad songs are getting us in our feels, thanks to our listeners who are unapologetically expressing their emotions. “Sad” is the most-searched term for Gen Z listeners on Spotify globally, and they’re tuning into our sad playlists—including pop-infused sad hour, R&B-inspired All The Feels, rap-heavy tear drop, sad sierreño, sad girl country, and sad girl starter pack—more than any other age group.

To match the vibe in the U.S. and Canada, we launched bummer summer, the ultimate lineup of moody jams and soul-filling songs. Complete with tracks from d4vd, Frank Ocean, Phoebe Bridgers, Lana Del Rey, Big Thief, and Billie Eilish, the playlist echoes the honesty and transparency that Gen Zs emulate in their lives and listening—and harnesses the ability of emotive, lyrical music to enhance any mood.

“There’s something really unique about this generation,” says Krista Scozzari, Spotify North American Marketing Lead. “They embrace their feelings so much. They’re really flipping the stigma of vulnerability. Gen Z has brought a raw, authentic new reality to expressing their emotions, and we’re seeing that in how they listen. We wanted to celebrate this powerful thing they’re doing.”

Gen Z listeners are seeking tracks that evoke feelings of nostalgia, wistfulness, and wanting—songs that feel like a warm embrace. “It’s important to note that not everything sounds like Billie Eilish’s ‘What Was I made For?’” says Lizzy Szabo, Spotify Senior Editor for Indie Music. “Though that was one of the breakout sad songs of the summer—probably the biggest—and was given a lot of extra context from being in the Barbie movie. It really took this feeling of nostalgia and met it with current issues and feelings.”

Lizzy notes that subgenres like indie pop, sad rap, and sad sierreño have all boomed in the past year, with standout artists including Phoebe Bridgers (bonus points for her work with boygenius), Joji, Alex G, Haley Heynderickx, Ivan Cornejo, and Junior H. She’s also seeing a rise in catalog listening for the broody sounds of Cigarettes After Sex, TV Girl, Lana Del Rey, Mitski, and Radiohead. “Artists have a way of putting things better than we ever could, so it’s a way for people to lean in and just fully embrace their emotions and the experiences they’re going through,” she says.

“Sad music can help us to release, express, channel, or purge our emotions,” says Dr. Michael Bonshor, PhD, music psychology expert. “It often has slower speeds, which slows down our breathing and heart rate when we listen so that we feel more relaxed and tranquil. In addition to hearing slower speeds, hearing music with sad lyrics creates a sense of personal connection with the artists who wrote them—it validates that our human experiences are shared.”

‘Spotify: Mic Check’ Returns With Teen Breakout Star Sara James

October 12, 2022

We’re back! After a brief summer hiatus, Spotify: Mic Check, Spotify: Discover This, and Spotify: For the Record return with new episodes. Whether you’re looking to go behind-the-scenes with your favorite creators, discover music genres or audio trends heating up around the world, or take a deep dive into all things Spotify, our trio of podcasts has got you covered.

Our latest Mic Check episode features Sara James, a Polish 14-year-old who captured the hearts of millions by her stunning performances on the popular TV show America’s Got Talent. In June, she also became Spotify’s youngest-ever ambassador for our EQUAL program. (You can read what she has to say about supporting women in music in our June interview).

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Tune in as the artist shares her story with Mic Check from Spotify’s Studios in LA—and look out for her new Spotify Singles, including a whole new take on Billie Eilish.

The Spooky Spotify Podcasts, Greenroom Live Events, and Songs Sure To Give You Goosebumps This Scary Season

October 21, 2021

On October 1, listeners were ready: There was a nearly 100% jump in Halloween-themed streaming on the first day of the spookiest month, compared to the day before. And with over 2.9 million user-generated Halloween playlists to choose from, it’s fair to say the sounds of spooky season can be found on Spotify. So whether you’re streaming the cult classics, finding new spooky songs, or looking for a podcast to give you goosebumps, there’s something for everyone on Spotify.

Spirited Halloween streaming

This October, we’ve noticed that all-time Halloween classics are back in action, with streams significantly spiking when compared to the previous month. “Monster Mash,” for example, was up by 350%, and “This is Halloween” from The Nightmare Before Christmas was up by 280%. However, there are also some new “tricks” on the block: More recent popular songs added to Halloween playlists include “Stranger Things” by Kyle Dixon & Michael Stein; “bad guy” by Billie Eilish; “Black Magic” by Little Mix; “Season of the Witch” by Lana Del Rey; “Sweet but Psycho” by Ava Max; and “Get Ghost” by A$AP Ferg, Mark Ronson and Passion Pit.

And finally, when it comes to true crime and horror podcast content, the western states of the U.S.—including Wyoming, Montana and Utah—were among the top in the country to stream scary-themed podcasts (relative to their overall podcast listening).

Our howlin’ Halloween hub

Not sure where to start? We’ve brought back our Halloween hub, with a spiderweb of curated content to get you into the spirit. In addition to the essential Halloween music on Headbanger Halloween, Trick or Treat, and Fright Fest, the hub will feature spooktacular podcast playlist curations from the likes of Benito Skinner, Stephanie Soo, Loey Lane and Snitchery, Ashley Flowers, and Last Podcast on the Left. Also head there if you’re looking for editorial podcast playlists like Spooky Stories, Unsolved Crimes & Mysteries, True Crime Scene, or Conspiracy Theories.

The truest True Crime Scene hub

We’ve also refreshed our True Crime Scene hub to feature new podcast content, with new podcast playlists, frighteningly binge-worthy pop culture podcasts, true crime series, and more—including themed episodes from shows like Crime Movie Club. While you’re there, check out our Spooky Stories podcast playlist, where we’re counting down the 31 spookiest ghost stories, one per day, leading up to Halloween.

Don’t ghost on Greenroom

Finally, Spotify Greenroom is also getting in the spooky season spirit with a week full of live, interactive programming celebrating Halloween, including conversations on everything from scary movies to conspiracy theories to real-life ghost encounters. In addition to Spotify Greenroom’s true crime shows Crime Movie Club and True Crime Rewind, check out the pop culture conspiracy-focused Popspiracy and the mystical Ask the Tarot, which are always perfectly poised to celebrate Halloween. Spotify Greenroom is available for download on iOS and Android devices.

Can’t get enough spookiness? In honor of the season, here are some of the shows with special or themed Halloween episodes or Greenroom Live rooms.

October 19:

Crime Show, “A Ghost Story”
- “Ghost Suspected of Causing Fire That Killed Two People” was the headline the day after. A parapsychologist goes to the scene of the crime to investigate.

October 25:

Obsessed – Live Halloween podcast
- Hosts Benito Skinner and Mary Beth Barone have a lot to talk about when it comes to all the things they’re “obsessed” with. This special Halloween episode with guest Kim Petras was taped in front of a live studio audience.

A Gay in the Life – Spotify Greenroom – 8pm ET/5pm PT
- - Hosts Garrett Clayton and Blake Knight discuss the portrayal of the “homosexual villian” in television and film and the significance of Halloween in the LGBTQIA community.

Take A Seat – Spotify Greenroom – 10pm ET/7pm PT

- - Ben Mandelker and Ronnie Karam talk about all of the unforgettable “horrific” moments from the “Real Housewives” and other Bravo fan-favorite franchises.

The Movie Buff – Spotify Greenroom – 11 pm ET/8pm PT

- Comedian Jon Gabrus breaks down the highly anticipated releases of “Dune” and “The French Dispatch” as well as the best—and worst—horror movies of all time.

October 26:

We Said What We Said, “Horror Stories”
- Join Trickey and Deadzel for a spooky episode about all things Halloween. Favorite scary movies! The supernatural! Costumes! Listen if you dare.
The Rewatchables
- Host Bill Simmons returns to Haddonfield, Illinois to revisit Michael Myers in the 1978 classic Halloween.
Campfire Stories – Spotify Greenroom Series Premiere – 11pm ET/8pm PT
- Sabrina and Corinne of the Two Girls, One Ghost podcast make their Spotify Greenroom debut, sharing their own scary ghost stories before inviting the audience to share their own.
Creepyhunters Premiere (Spanish language)
- This new Spotify Original podcast from Mexico is a fiction story created by Julio Rojas, creator of the chart-topping Chilean podcast, Caso 63. Horror fans will be on the edge of their seats as a group of friends encounter a mysterious creature in a cenote (pool or cave) in the Yucatán Peninsula—and discover an even more mysterious organization.

October 27:

Not Past It, “Who Killed Harry Houdini?”
- Harry Houdini escaped from handcuffs, sea monsters and torture cells, but his last great illusion defied even the spirits. On October 31, 1936, the famous escape artist was set to come back from the dead. But, as spooky as that sounds, the backstory to uncover America’s most notorious frauds of the day, is even more devilish.
Let’s Get Medical – Spotify Greenroom Series Premiere – 10pm ET/7pm PT
- Twin doctors Desmond and Darien Sutton share their craziest stories from the year’s spookiest night in the ER.

October 31:

- Teenager Therapy Live – Spotify Greenroom – 9pm ET/6pm PT
  - Our “Teenager Therapy” hosts dive into all things Halloween … on Halloween! Get ready for costumes, parties, embarrassing memories, and maybe feelings surrounding fears and phobias.

Leyenda Urbana MX Premiere (Spanish Language)

- A weekly podcast hosted by Ismael Méndez that tells of the urban legends, stories, and terrors that have given Mexico its cultural identity.

Still figuring out your costume? Try Stephanie Soo’s Spooky Vampires playlist on for size.

Quiz: This Week on ‘For the Record’

July 30, 2021

Celebrate Billie Eilish’s New Album Launch With Spotify’s First-Ever Artist Hub and Enhanced Experiences

July 30, 2021

We have a feeling Billie Eilish fans are about to be very happy. Billie’s highly anticipated—and aptly named—second studio album, Happier Than Ever, debuts today. In honor of the release, Spotify has created our first-ever artist hub and three new enhanced album experiences.

In the last six years, Billie’s listenership has grown exponentially. She rose to become the 12th-most-streamed artist in the world, with fans playing her songs a whopping 15.5 billion+ times. This new hub is the latest milestone in Spotify’s ongoing support of the artist’s meteoric rise. It builds on past memorable moments, including sweeping platform takeovers and our 2019 celebration of the growing artist’s first album, WHEN WE ALL FALL ASLEEP, WHERE DO WE GO?, where we worked with Billie to map out a unique interactive immersive experience.

Now, we’re upping the ante with Happier Than Ever: The Destination, on-platform releases, a global marketing campaign, and an exclusive Billie Eilish experience in Los Angeles.

Happier Than Ever: The Destination

Billie’s new hub, Happier Than Ever: The Destination, gives fans a wide range of exclusive content custom-created by the artist herself. It features four shelves chock full of Billie’s catalogue, her personally curated playlist of favorite tracks, surprise Easter eggs, and much more. The custom destination will also be featured on Browse and can only be accessed on Spotify.

The Enhanced Album Experiences

The Destination also contains three new enhanced album experiences: “Fan Mode,” “Billie Mode,” and “Lyric Mode.” Each features new and exclusive custom Billie Eilish content that will bring Billie fans further into her world, including Canvas, Storylines, and Playlist Clips. Here’s what listeners can expect from each album:

Fan Mode features exclusive interview content with the star and a soundscape of audio from fans. From pressing questions to Easter eggs, this experience celebrates listeners who know the artist best.
Billie Mode is a visual feast. This is an artist who is constantly evolving, and here visitors get to see different versions of Billie in poses that reflect her creative journey and self-discovery. Billie even addresses the camera directly to share her story.
Lyric Mode explores the meaning and creation of the star’s favorite lyrics. The words themselves are styled to the album’s Old Hollywood glamour, while exclusive audioliners bring the meaning behind her songs to life.

The IRL Celebration

In addition to the on-platform experiences, fans in LA will be able to attend an in-person event that captures the spirit of Billie’s highly anticipated album. The immersive Happier Than Ever destination brings the bespoke enhanced album experiences to life inside a glamorous 1950s-inspired Los Angeles estate, with Billie herself in attendance.

Today’s Top Hits Is the World’s Destination for the Very Best in Music

June 24, 2021

Ed Sheeran. Ariana Grande. Kali Uchis. There’s one place fans go to find a mix of music from their favorite groundbreaking artists—and that’s Today’s Top Hits.

Spotify’s Today’s Top Hits (TTH) is the world’s biggest playlist. With over 28 million followers, it’s also the top destination for emerging and established artists across all genres to reach millions of fans and provide them with chart-topping, show-stopping songs each day. And TTH influences more than culture—it has helped kickstart the careers of many emerging artists—like The Kid Laroi, Tate McRae, and Conan Gray—and supported music favorites like Billie Eilish, SZA, and Juice WRLD.

Today’s Top Hits is the leading global destination for popular music, supporting artists across all genres and bringing their music to a wider, global audience. As Spotify’s largest, most international playlist, we identified the opportunity to position Today’s Top Hits as our global music brand, complete with a distinct visual aesthetic and voice. The visual rebrand consists of a fresh, bold, colorful design, including a unique lockup with the TTH acronym, as well as a new brand tagline, “Hits Made Here.” The campaign, which centers around a 60-second video, “The Hit Station,” celebrates the breadth of artists and tracks that are defining culture today, including hitmakers like Billie Eilish, Travis Scott, Dua Lipa, Bad Bunny, and BLACKPINK.

“Today’s Top Hits is a true reflection of music culture today, as defined by the fans,” said Ned Monahan, Spotify’s Head of Global Hits. “So many factors go into the process of making a song a hit, and TTH has become a key catalyst and proving ground for a song reaching its full hit potential. Whether you’re emerging or established, no matter the genre—TTH gives artists the opportunity to connect with millions of fans across the globe, and fans a destination to support their favorite artist.”

Check out some notable TTH moments in this new style:

Today’s Top Hits has become so influential due to its diverse curation process, which supports various genres and artists beyond the traditional confines of how popular music has been defined in the past. It showcases the latest top hits driven by fans, combined with specially curated picks from editors who analyze music culture, data, and trends. Artists, industry professionals, and fans alike look to Today’s Top Hits as representative of what today’s music is—and what fans are listening to.

Get to know the world’s top tracks. Stream Today’s Top Hits for the very best in music today.

3 Ways To Feel Close to Your Favorite Artists While Social Distancing

August 13, 2020

Live shows and touring are paused for the time being, but your favorite creators are likely still doing what they do best: being creative. Even without in-person concerts or fan events, artists are finding plenty of ways to engage fans remotely and digitally. That means there’s also many opportunities for listeners to connect with artists and support them (beyond streaming their music for your private dance party).

Check out three tips on ways to support, share, and stay connected from our Spotify for Artists blog.

Tip 1: Share Their Songs to Your Socials

What better way to support an artist than by recruiting fans? After all, sharing is caring. With just the tap of a button, you can copy a link to send the song you’re streaming via SMS, Messenger, Twitter, WhatsApp, or email. Or, you can go further by sharing the track on your Facebook and Instagram stories, as well as on Snapchat. These integrations allow your friends and followers to preview a 15-second clip of the track in the app and gives them the option to click through to play it from their own Spotify apps. Learn more about how to share songs here.

Tip 2: Share Their Canvas to Your Instagram Story

Since launching our Canvas beta, which turns formerly static song pages into mesmerizing video-art showcases, artists all over Spotify have been giving their work new depth with the help of eight-second visual loops. For example, Poppy used her Canvas to heighten the otherworldliness of tracks on her new album, I Disagree, while Billie Eilish added fan art to her songs as a salute to listeners around the world. Canvas sharing is currently available to all Spotify users—listeners and artists alike—so when anyone shares a track from the app to their Instagram Story, the Canvas will show up for all to see. Take a look at the steps to share a Canvas to your Instagram here, and spread your favorite artist’s creative genius even further.

Tip 3: Check Out Their Virtual Events

During this time, many artists have turned to livestreamed concerts, which they perform from the comfort of their living rooms or backyards. Some have even used these events as a way to make money or raise funds for a charitable cause. These virtual concerts give fans around the world a chance to tune in to an artist’s social channels to hear their favorite songs performed live.

But virtual concerts aren’t the only way to support or engage with musicians. Many are using the power of technology not only to perform, but also to host Q&A sessions, listening parties, talk shows—and in some cases, even offer guitar lessons. Check out what some artists have been doing to stay connected to their fans—and don’t forget to follow your favorites on Spotify for email updates and phone notifications for their upcoming digital events.

Hear from Katy Perry, as well as other creators, on how they are staying connected to fans during the COVID-19 pandemic in Spotify: For the Record’s latest podcast episode.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Cm9mnVLC4mwkD12RG4VIn?si=nwCh6Sn_TNOYXNxurJK7Rw

“Own It,” Says Diane von Furstenberg, Host of Spotify’s New ‘InCharge with DVF’ Podcast

March 12, 2020

Diane von Furstenberg’s life is well-documented. Her work in both the fashion and philanthropic worlds has made her a symbol of female empowerment. And it all started back in 1974 with her revolutionary wrap dress. But there’s one thing that most folks don’t know: since she was a young girl, she wanted to host a radio show.

Now, with her new Spotify podcast InCharge with DVF, von Furstenberg is seizing the opportunity to highlight the journeys of other hardworking women. In each episode, she’ll interview successful forces—from Kris Jenner to Elaine Welteroth to Priyanka Chopra—about overcoming adversity and accomplishing their goals.

We caught up with von Furstenberg in her Connecticut home ahead of today’s podcast release.

Your debut podcast, InCharge with DVF, features intimate conversations that dive into the lives and careers of iconic female figures. What drew you to the podcast medium?

Well first of all, I love intimacy, and I love words. Therefore, I love podcasts. You can talk to people, and they don’t have to worry about how they look or what they’re wearing. Somehow it’s very intimate—both to record and for people to listen to them—whether they’re in their car or working out. I think that podcasts are extremely powerful.

I am now in the part of my life that is my third act. I have had a very, very full life full of experiences and knowledge. I have accumulated wisdom, and I think that it is important to share in an intimate way.

What are some of the universal takeaways of the podcast for people of all genders, ages, and goals?

This summer I thought, “What does ‘in charge’ really mean?” I don’t want people, especially men, to feel like to be “in charge” is to be aggressive. What it is, first and foremost, is a commitment to yourself to be true to yourself, to own it. Because as the woman I know I am now, I can tell you the secret of life is owning it.

Own your imperfections; they become your assets. You own your vulnerability; it becomes your strength. Owning it is very much about that—InCharge is very much about that. It’s about the relationship you have with yourself, which is where you find your own strength, where you find your core.

Own your imperfections; they become your assets. You own your vulnerability; it becomes your strength. Owning it is very much about that—InCharge is very much about that. It’s about the relationship you have with yourself, which is where you find your own strength, where you find your core.

The podcast will be released March 12, in celebration of Women’s History Month. In your career, how have you empowered women to take control and be in charge of their lives, their work, and their passions?

I always mentioned the words “in charge” when I was growing up. I didn’t know what I wanted to do, but I knew the kind of woman that I wanted to be, and what I wanted to be was a woman in charge. And now, the reason I give for being in fashion is basically to dress the woman in charge or to help her to feel in charge, to give her confidence.

I think it’s important that when you have a voice, you use that voice, plus your knowledge, experience, and connections, in order to help others to have a voice and to be in charge.

What specific topics are you most excited to discuss on the podcast? Are you expecting to find similarities across your conversations? Differences?

The similarity is that all of those women, whenever they were faced with challenges, they owned it. That’s why I said the secret of life is owning it. Most of them had very different lives and everything, but how they dealt with the challenges and the strength and the courage is very similar, and that’s what InCharge is about.

If we were to look at the music that you’ve been listening to, are there any particular genres or artists that you’re a big fan of these days?

I can’t sing at all, I’m the worst, but to be a rock star would certainly have been my fantasy. I love all these young women, like Billie Eilish and Ariana Grande. I just watched the documentary about Taylor Swift—it’s really hard for these young women. You have these crowds that love you and worship you and then two minutes later they criticize you. But they’re great and push through.

Finally, you’re known for the iconic wrap dress. If you were to associate a particular band, musician, or musical genre with your creation, what comes to mind?

Billy Joel. There’s a certain song that Billy Joel wrote called “You’re Always a Woman to Me.” I remember many people gave me that record (at the time we still had records). I would say that that’s the song that spoke to me when the dress was created.

Stream the first episode of Diane von Furstenberg’s new podcast, InCharge with DVF.

This International Women’s Day, Stream the Top Female Voices on Spotify

March 4, 2020

March is all about women’s empowerment. In honor of International Women’s Day, March 8, we’re celebrating female voices by spotlighting the top female artists and female-led podcasts on Spotify.

Taking the number one artist spot is Billie Eilish—and not only among female artists. She’s also the top artist overall this year, based on data from January 1 to March 1. Eilish has more than 10.3 billion all-time streams and more than 60 million monthly listeners. Eilish, whose song “bad guy” has over 1.2 billion streams, also just released the new James Bond theme song “No Time To Die.” Coming in second on our global list is “Lover” superstar Taylor Swift, followed by Ariana Grande, Halsey, and Camila Cabello.

When it comes to podcasts, these female-led shows are fan favorites on Spotify based on hours streamed, and it’s clear that the obsession with true crime reigns supreme. My Favorite Murder, a comedic true crime series from comedians Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark, is Spotify’s most popular female-hosted podcast. Crime Junkie, hosted by self-described “crime junkies” Ashley Flowers and Brit Prawat, comes in second. Wondering why women are so obsessed with true crime? According to social psychologist Amanda Vicary, “Women are drawn to true crime because of the information they can learn from it, even if they aren’t aware that that may be the reason they are listening!”

And with that, these are the top female artists and female-led podcasts globally on Spotify.

To mark International Women’s Day, we’re creating our first-ever global campaign to highlight the contributions women have made to this industry. Plus, on March 8, a brand-new Women’s History Month hub will be live on Spotify. It will include all-female tracks, playlists, and podcasts, as well as takeovers from some of the most dynamic women in audio, because #MusicNeedsWomen #PodcastsNeedWomen and #AudioNeedsWomen.

In the meantime, be sure to listen to our powerhouse playlist of the top female artists around the world.

Spotify Refreshes Popular Playlist New Music Friday with Global Rebrand

February 21, 2020

Whether you’re a music fan or an artist, Fridays are about to get even better. Today, Spotify’s highly influential New Music Friday playlist—a curated selection of the most anticipated new tracks of the week—is debuting a global rebrand.

The revamped playlist, which has 43 versions worldwide, will continue to serve as the leading destination for listeners who want to discover new music from both established and emerging talent. With over 3.5 million followers in the U.S. and 8 million globally, it’s an achievement and milestone for artists to have their new tracks included on the list.

With today’s visual relaunch, Spotify is continuing to support its ongoing investment in the must-hear playlist brand, with a major social campaign, New York and Los Angeles billboards, and new cover art. Inspired by a trend of artists making their own celebratory New Music Friday social media assets, Spotify For Artists will now test a new feature where all artists added to the U.S. version—to start—of New Music Friday will be able to grab and share a branded and personalized social asset a la Wrapped.

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