Tag: Event

Introducing the Best New Artist 2026 Nominees

January 23, 2026

Spotify’s annual Best New Artist celebration honors the rising stars whose talent, creativity, and dedication have propelled them to the music industry’s biggest stage. More than a party, the evening spotlights the artistry and hard work of the nominees who are shaping music today and underscores our commitment to amplifying artists at a defining moment in their careers.

After a cancellation due to the Los Angeles wildfires last year, the event is back in a big way. On Thursday, January 29, The Lot at Formosa will play host to the celebration, sponsored by Hilton. All 8 of the 2026 nominees—Addison Rae, Alex Warren, KATSEYE, Leon Thomas, Lola Young, Olivia Dean, sombr, and The Marías—will be in attendance and perform live on our rotating stage throughout the night.

Before the winner is announced, get to know the nominees for this year’s Best New Artist, and see how Spotify has helped amplify their music and find new fans around the world.

Addison Rae

We had a feeling Addison Rae was one to watch from the moment her debut single “Obsessed” landed on New Music Friday in 2021. Since then, she’s dropped a string of singles, EPs, and an album, and was featured in the behind-the-scenes performance short, Spotify Presents: Addison – The Debut. Last year, her song “Headphones On” was named one of Spotify Editors’ Picks: Best Songs of 2025.

Alex Warren

Alex Warren made waves in 2025 with his song “Ordinary,” which racked up more than 2.9 million streams on its first day and went on to join Spotify’s Billions Club. The hit was the third most‑streamed song in the U.S. last year, while his album You’ll Be Alright, Kid secured the No. 7 spot among the most‑streamed albums globally.

KATSEYE

KATSEYE stands out not just for their high-energy beats, but for the journey that brought them together. More than 120,000 artists applied to be a part of the girl group in a global talent search. Only 20 finalists made the cut and competed in an intensive audition program that streamed worldwide. 

Their first track, aptly named “Debut,” dropped in 2024 and was an instant hit. A year later, “Gnarly” was featured on Spotify’s 2025 Songs of Summer list.

Leon Thomas

Leon Thomas is on our radar, literally. Earlier this year, he was featured in our RADAR podcast series where he talked about his EP PHOLKS, his creative evolution, and more. Previously included on the Rising R&B: Artists to Watch Playlist in 2024, he continued to impress with his song “My Muse,” landing on Spotify Editors’ Picks: Best Songs of 2025.

Lola Young

Making history as the first cover artist for R&B UK in 2020 was just the beginning for Lola Young. This year, she was named EQUAL Ambassador for the U.K. and Ireland, while her single “Messy” was featured on Today’s Top Hits and ALT NOW and also became a certified member of Spotify’s Billions Club.

Olivia Dean

This year marked several big Spotify moments for Olivia Dean. “It Isn’t Perfect But It Might Be,” featured in Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, was her first song included on Hot Hits UK. Over the summer, she appeared on the covers of the Chill Pop and New Music Friday UK playlists after dropping “Man I Need,” a song that was also a part of her Spotify Live Room performance. Closing out the year, her track “So Easy (To Fall In Love)” made Spotify Editors’ Picks: Best Songs of 2025.

sombr

sombr’s 2025 hit “back to friends” defined a landmark year for the rising artist. The track entered Spotify’s Billions Club and was among the most‑streamed songs both globally (No. 6) and in the U.S. (No. 7). Meanwhile, his song “canal street” was included in Spotify Editors’ Picks: Best Songs of 2025.

The Marías

Since releasing their debut album CINEMA, The Marías have built impressive momentum, earning two Grammy nominations and a Billboard chart‑topper, along with collaborations with Latin music heavyweights like Bad Bunny and Tainy. They were among the top RADAR artists last year, while their song “No One Noticed” was the No. 10 most-streamed song on Spotify in the U.S. in 2025.

Casa Spotify Celebrates Latin Music’s Biggest Week in Las Vegas

November 14, 2025

This week, Casa Spotify lit up Las Vegas with an unforgettable celebration of Latin music and culture ahead of the 26th Annual Latin Grammy Awards. Hosted at the iconic XS at Wynn, the event united artists, creators, and industry leaders for a night that pulsed with creativity, connection, and joy. More than just a gathering, Casa Spotify reflected Spotify’s unwavering mission to champion Latin artists and create spaces where their voices, culture, and achievements shine on a global stage.

Two-time Latin Grammy winner Dav Julca hosted El Palomazo, an afternoon jam session featuring Jean Rodriguez, Luck Ra, Silvana Estrada, Julia Mestre, Karen Lizarazo, and Luisa. Together, they delivered high-energy performances and captured the collective spirit at the heart of Latin music.

At The Co-Sign Experience, the spotlight turned towards Latin music’s rising stars. Attendees cast their votes for their favorite emerging artist and song, creating a hub of musical discovery that amplified new voices within the community.

‘CultureCon Uncut’ Video Podcast Returns for Season 2 With Host Imani Ellis

October 16, 2025

In 2017, Imani Ellis launched CultureCon, a conference that’s become a must-attend event for more than 10,000 diverse creatives and Black professionals to connect, learn, and build community. CultureCon 2025 was packed with curated conversations designed to spark inspiration while celebrating the expansiveness of Black creativity.

Luckily, the conversation doesn’t end when the conference wraps. It continues on CultureCon Uncut, Imani’s video podcast that brings the unfiltered energy of the live event to fans everywhere. Now, Spotify is celebrating the return of the series for its second season.

Produced by The Ringer, the new season features Imani alongside special guest co-host Ike Slimster, a comedian and visual artist, in conversations with culture shifters blazing their own trails.

“We’re so proud to continue our partnership with CultureCon Studios to center and amplify the stories and creatives that shape our culture and community while celebrating creativity in all its forms,” said Kristin Jarrett, Lead, Equity, Diversity & Impact at Spotify.

The podcast’s return follows a powerhouse panel hosted by Spotify at this year’s CultureCon creative conference. On October 4, industry experts and creators—including Melyssa Ford, host of Hot & Bothered; Scott Evans, part of the new RADAR Creators class of 2025, co-host of Access Hollywood, and creator of the digital series House Guest; and Gil Arias, Spotify Creator Partner Manager—shared their insights on how to launch, grow, and thrive as audio and video creators. The conversation was moderated by none other than Xavier “X” Jernigan, the voice model for Spotify’s DJ in English.

Ready to dive in? Stream Season 2 of the CultureCon Uncut video podcast now.

Bruce Springsteen and Jeremy Allen White Unite in London for an Exclusive Spotify Conversation and Film Preview

October 15, 2025

Rock legend Bruce Springsteen and luminary actor Jeremy Allen White came together last night at Spotify’s London HQ for their first joint appearance in the UK. The exclusive event gave top Spotify fans an early look at Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere, the forthcoming film that explores the creation of Springsteen’s influential 1982 album Nebraska. Nebraska itself is getting a rerelease, Nebraska ’82: Expanded Edition, timed to the movie premiere.

In an intimate conversation, Bruce and Jeremy opened up about the emotional depth of the record, the creative choices behind the film, and the connection between vulnerability and artistry. Fans in the room heard firsthand accounts of a pivotal period in The Boss’ career and how the actor approached portraying one of music’s most enduring icons.

“As you get older, you take more risks in your work and in life in general,” said Bruce on the decision to bring this chapter of his life to the big screen.“[Director] Scott [Cooper] had a really good grasp of the kind of film I’d be interested in—not a standard musical biopic, but a character-driven drama with music.”

RADAR’s 1,000-Artist Milestone: Rachel Chinouriri, Zimmer90, and More Celebrate With Spotify in Berlin

September 10, 2025

RADAR, Spotify’s program for emerging talent, recently hit a major milestone: supporting more than 1,000 artists since its launch in 2020. Around the world, RADAR artists benefit from editorial support, exclusive content, and personalized marketing plans, all tailored to local music culture and audience needs.

To mark the occasion and celebrate RADAR’s global impact, Spotify brought together artists and industry professionals in Berlin on Tuesday for a night of conversation, connection, and live music.

A vibrant mix of RADAR artists from around the world were in attendance, including Rachel Chinouriri, Zimmer90, Nasser, Najm, Hasan Raheem, Jann, Jea Mira, Selin, Yoa, The Vices, Zartmann, Eileen Alister, Sofie Royer, Souly, LUKAS OSCAR, Giant Rooks, Ski Aggu, Zoe Wees, and 01099.

Latest ‘Wednesday’ Tracklist Lands on Spotify, Boasting Lady Gaga’s Brand-New Single

September 3, 2025

Last week, Spotify and Netflix transformed Guastavino’s in New York City into a delightfully dark Graveyard Gala to celebrate Wednesday Season 2, Part 2. Fans, influencers, and cast members Jenna Ortega, Emma Myers, and Joy Sunday gathered for an immersive Tim Burton-inspired evening filled with Wednesday-themed treats, custom haiku, and spooky surprises.

The highlight of the night was a special appearance by Lady Gaga, who joined the cast to announce her brand-new song, “The Dead Dance,” featured in Part 2 of this season. Guests were invited to step inside bespoke coffins for an exclusive preview of the electrifying new single.

Verano Forever Brings Myke Towers, Beéle, Elena Rose, and More to Miami for an Unforgettable Latin Summer Celebration

August 28, 2025

Earlier this month, we promised our Verano Forever party would bring the heat, and our big celebration didn’t disappoint. Last Friday, Verano Forever welcomed more than 700 guests to experience a fusion of music, culture, and the vibrant energy of Latin summer, with memorable performances from chart-toppers, innovators, and genre-shaping artists spanning the Latin music landscape.

 

Hosted at Regatta Grove, a waterfront venue with panoramic views, Verano Forever saw rising stars Elena Rose, Hamilton, and Luis Vazquez bring their own flavor to the stage, while Rawayana energized fans with a DJ-infused set that included a new song with Elena Rose from their upcoming project. 

Latin Afrobeats powerhouse Beéle also performed hits like “si te pillara” and “mi refe,” setting the stage for headliner Myke Towers, who closed out the night with a show-stopping set that included the live debut of “TENGO CELOS” from his latest album, ISLAND BOYZ.

Spotify and Royel Otis Team Up on a Special ‘hickey’ Album Release Show for Top Fans

August 22, 2025

With their new album, hickey, out now, Aussie indie darlings Royel Otis decided to start the celebrations early by bringing their emotionally charged, hook-filled sound to the UK. On Thursday night, the duo played an intimate show at London’s Village Underground, exclusively for their top Spotify fans.

 

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Formed in 2020 in Sydney, Royel and Otis have always moved with an unshakable sense of self, and hickey represents their most fearless leap yet. 

This special celebration gave fans the opportunity to hear brand new material from the album, performed live for the very first time. The setlist included recent singles “Moody” and “Say Something,” along with much-loved hits like “Oysters In My Pocket” and their viral covers “Linger” and “Murder On the Dancefloor.”

Spotify and Stray Kids Celebrate KARMA With an Immersive Spotify STAYdium Experience

August 22, 2025

The wait is over: Stray Kids return with their fourth full-length album, KARMA. And with Spotify STAYdium, fans aren’t just listening, they’re living every moment of it.

Now open in Seoul and Jakarta through August 25, and then heading to Tokyo August 23 through August 27, Spotify STAYdium is a journey into Stray Kids’ latest era. It’s also a tribute to STAY, whose dedication has fueled Stray Kids’ story of grit, growth, and global impact.

“Our fans are the reason for our destiny. We’re also so thankful for Spotify, who has supported us since our rookie year,” said the group. “Partnering with Spotify to bring Spotify STAYdium to life feels like we’ve come full circle. This space celebrates all that we’ve built together with STAY, and we hope they feel our love in every moment.”

Verano Forever: Latin Hits Bringing the Heat on Spotify

August 14, 2025

As the mercury rises and the days stretch long, Spotify has been turning up the vibrant sounds of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean with our Verano Forever campaign. And the playlist with the same name holding it all together is Verano Forever. 

But the party isn’t over yet—in fact, it’s about to begin. That’s because Verano Forever is also a full-blown celebration going down in the heart of Miami on August 22. With its rich blend of cultures and deep ties to Latin music, Miami was a natural choice for this immersive event. It’s more than just a party; it’s a space where artists and fans can connect through shared rhythms, stories, and the unmistakable energy of Latin summer.

For Gen Z Latinos, music transcends mere sound; it’s a vital conduit for cultural connection, a catalyst for unforgettable experiences, and a cherished escape in a fast-paced world. Spotify understands this intrinsic link, recognizing that summer itself is a mood—a time for disconnection and reconnection, for dancing away worries, and for savoring every sun-drenched moment. 

For the love of Latin 

To that end, Verano Forever also underscores the excitement of the genre’s global ascent, a movement kicked off by artists like Bad Bunny and now brought to life through a new wave of trailblazers.

But it isn’t just the latest hits fueling the 2025 beat. These fan-favorite tracks (all more than five years old) see a spike in global streams each summer:

    1. LA CANCIÓN by Bad Bunny and J Balvin
    2. Callaita by Bad Bunny and Tainy
    3. No Me Conoce – Remix by Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and JHAYCO
    4. Danza Kuduro by Don Omar and Lucenzo
    5. Con Calma by Daddy Yankee and Snow

In the U.S., over 12,500 user-generated playlists include the words “verano AND Latin” or “Summer AND Latin” in the title.

The most-streamed tracks in the U.S. on the Verano Forever playlist within the last five years are: 

    1. Si Antes Te Hubiera Conocido by KAROL G
    2. Tattoo – Remix by Rauw Alejandro, Camilo
    3. La Bachata by Manuel Turizo
    4. Todo De Ti by Rauw Alejandro
    5. PROVENZA by KAROL G
    6. Santa by Ayra Starr, Rauw Alejandro, Rvssian
    7. Indeciso by J Balvin, Lalo Ebratt, Reik
    8. Tan Bonita by Piso 21
    9. DESPECHÁ by ROSALÍA
    10. Brickell by Feid, Yandel

The most-streamed artists on the Verano Forever playlist over the past five years in the U.S. are:

    1. KAROL G
    2. Rauw Alejandro
    3. Bad Bunny
    4. Feid
    5. J Balvin
    6. Camilo
    7. Manuel Turizo
    8. Myke Towers
    9. Ozuna
    10. Maluma

Also at its heart are the dynamic subgenres shaping the contemporary Latin soundscape. Spotify is creating a dedicated space for listeners to discover and immerse themselves in these rising movements. From Afrobeats Latino, where Latin elements fuse with African rhythms, to Latin House making waves in the electronic dance scene, and Caribbean fusions blending funk, reggae, and soul, the diversity is exhilarating. Even salsa is experiencing a vibrant resurgence, with a new generation of Latin artists breathing life into the iconic genre.

A backstage pass to the heat

Verano Forever will feature in-depth artist storytelling, highlighting the journeys of artists who contribute to this rich tapestry. Names including Rawayana, Beéle, and Myke Towers among others will receive the spotlight with narratives that often trace back to humble beginnings, offering inspiring and relevant insights for fans.

Verano Forever is a testament to Latin music’s undeniable global influence and its power to define a season. Spotify is showing up where Latin culture lives, creating exclusive, fan-first moments that solidify its role as the ultimate curator of a vibrant summertime soundtrack.

Live Nation Urban and Spotify Bring Emerging UK R&B Talent to the US with RNB X Live: The UK Sound

July 31, 2025

Next month, Spotify teams up with Live Nation Urban for an exciting new live music experience: RNB X Live: The UK Sound. This limited concert series will spotlight rising R&B voices from the U.K., with can’t-miss performances from kwn, Odeal, Elmiene, Sasha Keable, and Venna.

Following the success of Spotify’s RNB X After Hours showcase in Washington, D.C., earlier this year, which featured major acts including Normani, Bryson Tiller, and Leon Thomas, this new two-city series will bring the soulful, genre-blending sounds of the U.K. to both coasts of the U.S.

The series kicks off at August Hall in San Francisco on Thursday, August 21, with performances by kwn and Odeal, before heading to Irving Plaza in New York City on Wednesday, August 27, where Elmiene, Sasha Keable, and Venna will take the stage.

Backed by Spotify’s flagship R&B playlist, RNB X, the debut of RNB X Live: The UK Sound marks the latest chapter in the platform’s celebration of R&B’s global evolution. In partnership with Live Nation Urban, this dual concert event kicks off Spotify’s spotlight on U.K. R&B, part of an ongoing effort to amplify regional scenes shaping the genre’s future.

Presales for RNB X Live: The UK Sound begin today via Live Nation at 2 PM ET and Spotify Fans First at 5 PM ET. General ticket sales go live for New York City and San Francisco on August 1 at 10 AM local time.

“The U.S. has long been the mecca for what we recognize as R&B today, but the U.K. has always held its own, with a rich legacy and a wave of fresh, genre-pushing talent,” said Alaysia Sierra, Head of R&B Editorial. “In the age of streaming, the globalization of R&B means we’re more connected than ever to artists who are redefining the sound from across the pond. From legends like Sade, Craig David, and Corinne Bailey Rae to innovators like Cleo Sol, Elmiene, Sasha Keable, and kwn, the U.K. scene continues to evolve with intention.”

With RNB X Live: The UK Sound, we’re giving fans an immersive way to tap into that energy—celebrating what U.K. artists are bringing to the table while spotlighting R&B’s global reach through our flagship RNB X playlist with more to come.

KAROL G and Spotify Bring ‘Tropicoqueta’ to Life With an Unforgettable NYC Celebration

July 23, 2025

To celebrate the release of KAROL G’s acclaimed new album, Tropicoqueta, Spotify teamed up with the Latin icon to host an exclusive, immersive experience at Paradise Club in New York City. Channeling the bold energy of Karol’s new era, more than 200 fans took part in a night of music and culture.

Blending sounds from across Latin America, Tropicoqueta is a tribute to Karol’s roots. Our celebration brought the new album to life in a one-of-a-kind setting that captured its rhythms and colorful aesthetic. Guests explored the tropical-inspired space before gathering around the stage, where a choreographer taught the crowd some of the fresh dance moves featured in Karol’s latest music video.