Tag: horoscopes

Spotify Creates a Custom Podcast Experience Aligned With the Stars

September 12, 2022

a graphic image that shows all the zodiac signs on a yellow background

Whether you set your day according to your chart or just indulge in the occasional horoscope, it’s fun to learn how what’s written in the stars aligns to your life. And from hilarious memes and social videos to daily podcast episodes, there’s no shortage of mediums to get the latest on your astrological sign.

Spotify listeners have plenty of ways to consume the cosmos.

They can check out our Cosmic Playlists or pick from a selection from the playlist shelf on Bumble’s profile curated by Aliza Kelly, host of the podcasts Astrology Dating and Stars Like Us. They can also visit Astrology Club, a podcast hub for both the devoted and beginners. Now Spotify is bringing a new astrological listening experience made just for you with the Astrology Club microsite—created by global interactive production studio makemepulse with illustration by Lebassis, represented by Jelly London. 

Visiting the microsite unlocks a variety of astrological goodies, including romance advice and relationship insights from Bumble’s Compatibility Corner and personalized podcast playlists based on your sign that are curated by Spotify and reviewed by astrologist Aliza Kelly.

For the Record sat down with Aliza to talk about love, podcasts, and everything under the stars.

aliza kelly looking at the camera and posingHow did you first get into astrology? 

I have always been into astrology. I have an amazing Sagittarius mom who collected books and was generally very curious and open minded about the world. In my apartment growing up, we had books on Christianity and Catholicism next to a book on astrology, next to a book on the Quran, next to a book on Kabbalah. There were no sorts of boundaries as to what I could explore. And from a young age, I was always really interested in astrology, mysticism, and alternative practices that had more magical roots. So while I’ve always been interested in it, I guess my learning began to crystallize when I was in my early 20s and I was living in Los Angeles. I was living out what I thought I was going to be very happy pursuing and decided it wasn’t fulfilling. At that time, as so many people do, when I was in the process of looking for answers and trying to figure out how to really get to know myself better, I took my astrology interests further. And I actually started an astrology dating app with a friend of mine from college—this was 10 years ago.

How should people use astrology readings and how shouldn’t they?

I think that astrology is an incredible tool for self-awareness and self-actualization. What makes astrology so successful is that it is an incredibly complex and rich vocabulary for understanding who we are, how we move through the world, our likes, our dislikes, our passions or proclivities. Astrology provides us with a ton of beautiful, informative insights that help us get to know ourselves and how we relate to our environments better. We can really help guide our person by having this outside perspective on different dimensions of who we are. But where I think people use astrology in less than ideal ways is when we stereotype, judge, typecast, or set boundaries on our relationships based on it. And we become sort of like dogmatic in jest, regurgitating information that we receive about it without actually exploring it and taking the time to see if that aligns with someone, if that checks out, or if that resonates. 

I love to be surprised by the way that somebody manifests and metabolizes an energy that I have already an interpretation of. And if their experience with it differs from my interpretation, that’s beautiful and exciting and really thought provoking because that allows me to refine my understanding of these different archetypes.

Do you approach writing horoscopes differently than how you approach astrology in an auditory format like podcasts?

So with my written work, there’s definitely a lot of pressure on wanting to make sure that you are inspiring people. You know, being very clear and specific in the directives, in making sure that people know that there’s a lot of interpretation and to approach it with an open mind. That type of language needs to punctuate a lot of the writing. Whereas with a podcast or an auditory form, I can sort of deliver messages a little faster because I don’t need to have to constantly be like, Who is this for? Am I being too intense? Is somebody going to misinterpret it if they read this wrong? [For a podcast] just being able to communicate something with my voice and being able to, you know, intimate differently based on my inflection is really helpful. And people can know if I’m joking or being sarcastic. I don’t want people to think that, you know, if I’m saying something is doomed, that I actually mean that it is like, truly, definitively doomed. I usually would use something like that more playfully or in jest. So it’s easier to have sort of different tones through the podcast than when you’re just working with writing.

How do you see podcast genres and podcasts overlapping? Are there particular types of podcasts that might interest a particular sign?

Well, I think that it would be hard to say that one sign would be more inclined to listen to a certain podcast genre than the other. But like with this project, with the Astrology Club, we created different podcast playlists based on the zodiac signs, and we curated them to touch on some of the qualities of the signs. For instance, with the Aries podcast playlist, we made sure that we emphasize things around like ambition, winning, passion, and excitement. And with Capricorn, which is very much associated with working hard and entrepreneurship, we incorporated podcasts that had those sorts of themes along with how to manage burnout and take a step back to create a healthier dynamic with whatever is on your plate. I think that it’s really fun and exciting to be able to pair different podcasts with the zodiac and to create playlists to inspire different conversations through that.

How about music tastes? Are there any signs and genres thatAliza Kelly sitting on the floor posing in front of the camera stick out as being paired for you?

I’m a Pisces moon, so I’m obsessed with music. And it’s a huge part of my life. So having music that sort of picks up the tone and flavor of that astrological season is really important to me.

And you know, generally the fire signs—Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius—are really passionate. So maybe we’re going to see some more power ballads with them. The Earth signs—Taurus, Virgo, and Capricorn are more practical, realistic. They are more tangible. So they’ll probably focus more on the production of the music, right? Like on the quality of something. The air signs—Gemini, Libra, and Aquarius—are like wordsmiths. They’re very intellectual. So I have found that some of the most amazing rappers and poets are often those signs—specifically Gemini. Scorpio and Pisces are also very much associated with music and the creative arts in general. I will often create playlists for each astrological season because each one has its own sort of tone.

How should people use their signs to approach relationships?

I see when people come together and they talk about, you know, their sun, moon, and rising, or they share and compare their birth charts or just like the tidbits of astrology, these conversations among strangers become so much richer, so much more empathetic, so much kinder, so much more open, so much more profound. 

As it relates to compatibility, my favorite way of incorporating astrology into relationships is to lead with curiosity and to ask questions. So instead of making assumptions as to how somebody experiences their astrological archetypes . . . actually listen to them and then work together to create a really interesting profile for how the two of you connect.

So what podcast or playlist should you listen to next? Let the stars dictate your journey and visit the Astrology Club microsite to see what your sun sign has in store for you.

The Global, Gen Z–Influenced Rise of Horoscope and Astrology Podcasts on Spotify

October 26, 2021

Is Mercury in retrograde? What does your star chart say? Throughout history and across cultures, people have looked to the heavens for insights and inspiration to bring back to their daily lives. More recently, horoscopes and astrology found their way into pop culture, and over the past few years, onto the soundscape that is podcasts. 

Back in September 2019, Spotify and Parcast launched Horoscope Today, a daily podcast that gives listeners a personal forecast—one for each of the 12 signs per day, 365 days a year. Since then, the show has been adapted into local languages for listeners in Brazil, Mexico, India, Indonesia, and Germany. (There’s even a feed available in Australia and New Zealand that publishes the U.S.’s episodes a day early to account for the time change.)

In September, Parcast and Spotify brought Horoscope Today, or Tu Horóscopo de Hoy, to listeners in Spain. The first localization of Parcast’s show—meaning it’s not only translated, but also has unique horoscopes and messages for its Spanish audience—was prompted by the success of the original in the U.S. and in Mexico, especially among Gen Z, who are proving to be rabid connoisseurs of horoscopes.

Beyond Horoscope Today is a global landscape of future-focused shows featuring witches or tarot readings or—more simply—groups of friends discussing their star charts, many of which have a Gen Z host, audience, or theme. And while each differs in its approach and style, they offer something similar: a message from the universe. 

Turn up the magic with Witch, Please in Mexico and Colombia

Witch, Please debuted in August as a weekly exclusive Spanish-language Spotify production hosted by the witch, tarot reader, and astrologer Mika Vidente alongside apprentice and friend Fer Aldre. Each Monday, these magical hosts warmly and humorously guide listeners through the astrological climate of the week and the keys to face it with harmony according to tarot, horoscope, or astrological chart. 

For Mika and Fer, being a witch is not just a hobby; it’s a way of life. It centers on being rebellious while accepting there are things we cannot control. They also believe that being a witch requires them to connect with the energy of the universe to better know themselves, discover the magic within them, develop it, and grow to be better people. “The younger generations have innate curiosity and turn to astrology because they have many questions to which they cannot find an answer in a broken physical world,” the duo explained. 

During the podcast, the two also read stories from the audience and give advice using tarot cards. The show mixes humor and practical astrology with basic concepts to help listeners in their daily lives.

Dial in to Central de Astrologia in Brazil

Now ringing up those in Brazil who love advice, horoscopes, and a nostalgic aesthetic: The stars have aligned to bring you the Original Spotify podcast Central de Astrologia, which launched in September. This podcast’s aesthetic is that of a classic telephone shopline from the ’90s: “bringing everything that heaven can offer you each week for the modest price of your attention.” It’s a lighter, almost satirical take on the horoscope. 

With visual and sonic aesthetics reminiscent of the ’90s, Central de Astrologia features internet astrologer Bruna Paludo, otherwise known as Madama Br000na, in discussions about astrology, self-care, and daily life issues. Tune in weekly for informative and funny episodes filled with special guests, audience interaction, current events, and memes. The show evokes the memories of the golden age of teleshopping and icons such as Walter Mercado, who founded the first call center based on astrology, and Susan Miller, who is famous for her accurate and constant advice in magazines and on the internet.

Find horoscopes in France on La Fabuleuse

Horoscopes are becoming so ubiquitous that Gen Z podcasts on other topics will even, at times, dive into the world of astrology. One such example is a recent episode of the first French vodcast, La Fabuleuse. The podcast is hosted by Gen Z influencer and singer Bilal Hassani and his former roommates, who refer to themselves as “the fabulous.” Together, the five young guys break down notions of gender, sexuality, and what it means to be a 20-something in today’s world. 

The episode “L’astrologie, des spoilers sur ta vie?” (or “Astrology: Spoilers for your life?”) is a seamless example of the ubiquity of the subject among Gen Z. The hosts explain the different forms of divination arts and debate whether it is a good idea to want to know your future. Like any good group of friends, they debate the merits behind reading horoscopes and how much stock to put into what they say. 

Mediums, magic, and mysteries in the U.S.

Parcast Studios is known for its riveting true crime, history, and supernatural podcasts. Its new Spotify Original series Mediums fits the bill, combining the history of clairvoyance in the U.S. with its foray into pop culture. And what’s more: Shelby Scott, the host of Scare You to Sleep, is using her soothing voice to terrify once again.  

Though a slight break from horoscopes, fans of the occult are bound to be spooked and shocked by this podcast. If you’ve ever tried to summon a spirit with a Ouija board or found Theresa Caputo on Long Island Medium fascinating, this Spotify Original is for you. Mediums details the history of clairvoyant figures, mostly women, in the United States. In the 19th century, the spiritualism movement grew in popularity and people began to turn to mediums to get answers about what happens after death—but not without consequence. 

Ask the Tarot and you shall receive 

Finally, fans can get live horoscope advice every Thursday at 9 PM ET on Spotify Greenroom’s Ask the Tarot. Each week, Michelle Tea, award-winning writer and host of the Your Magic podcast, will solicit listeners’ life problems and read tarot for them to help navigate their life choices and divine meaning from the magic of life’s mysteries. Whether or not your card is drawn, listeners are in for a thrilling time.

 

There’s music to match your horoscope, too—check out our curated Cosmic Playlists on the Pop Culture Hub on Spotify.

Astrologer Chani Nicholas Is Back with Horoscopes that Celebrate Pride

June 21, 2019

In January, we interviewed astrologer and activist Chani Nicholas when she debuted her Cosmic Playlists on our U.S. Pop Culture Hub. Now, she’s back for Pride Month with new, specially curated playlists that speak directly to pride, identity, representation, and love.

We circled back with Chani to get her take on why horoscopes resonate with the LGBTQ community. Much like her insightful horoscopes, the answers speak for themselves.

For those unfamiliar with horoscopes, why do you think they resonate so much these days? Particularly with millennials and Gen Zers?

Astrology holds up a mirror to who we are as people. It affirms us and calls us out. We need both. Life today is so unpredictable, and we all crave some system that contextualizes the difficulties we face, both personally and collectively—which is what astrology naturally does.

Why do you think horoscopes have become so prominent in LGBTQ culture? Even within different subsections?

Astrology appeals to the queer community for many reasons. I wrote a blog post on this a while back on why I think this is the case—for me, it always comes down to feeling witnessed. For so many of us in the LGBTQ+ community, we have to wrestle with who we are in a society that, even in most liberal enclaves, priorities heteronormative policies, standards, and ideals. So a school of thought/vernacular that doesn’t judge you, radically accepts how you were born and who you are, and offers infinite options for articulating your unique self, versus the typical gender binary can be a source of validation for many of us.

Horoscopes can offer an insight into identity and purpose. Why is that such a relevant topic for Pride Month?

Astrology’s power and magic come from its ability to validate and tell our story. When we radically accept who we are, we are freed to pursue our purpose with pride.

How have you shaped your readings differently for Pride Month? What’s there to look forward to beyond the rainbow cover?

The artists on the playlists for June come in large part from the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout history, queer people have been oftentimes unrecognized vanguards in culture while setting trends that mainstream culture eventually co-opts, erasing the original gender nonconforming and queer talent. By spotlighting queer artists this month, we keep the focus on the creators themselves.

Are there any unique astrological happenings this June that correspond well with Pride?

Over the last weekend of June, the astrology is very innovative, experimental, and queer. The sun in Cancer (the sign of family and the group we feel we belong to) makes a helpful connection to Uranus, planet of great creativity and breaking with tradition. It should be fun!

Do you have a song or artist that you associate with coming out or coming to terms with your identity?

In terms of how I identify, I think I identify most with ’80s pop music. A lot of it was gender fluid without explaining itself; it was just normalized in a way which I really value and made a big impression on me.

Who are some LGBTQ artists (current or classic) that you’d put on your personal Pride Month playlist?

I’m still in love with Lizzo’s new album, and I’m really enjoying Syd, Reyna, Mykki Blanco, Le1f, and Andrea Di Giovanni.

Is there anything you’d like to say to followers and fans who are figuring out their identity?

Coming out is a continual process. Please do it in the ways that are right for you. When, and if, it is safe (enough) for you to do so. And you don’t have to. It changes nothing about your identity if the only one you ever come out to is you. If you are thinking about coming out, please set yourself up with resources specific to your needs, not only in regard to your ability, location, gender expression, or sexuality, but also culturally when and where possible. There are a million very specific communities online and with a little digging you may find the perfect fit for many, if not all of your identities. There is no right way to be queer, or any gender, or any kind of human being. You get to be you and define yourself for yourself. Every. Single. Day.

Check out all of Chani’s Pride Month-inspired horoscopes in the US Pop Culture Hub, and take a listen to the Cancer playlist below.

Spotify Celebrates New Cosmic Playlists with Readings from Guest Astrologer

February 1, 2019

The super blood wolf moon, also known as the January lunar eclipse, wasn’t the only celestial event in the universe recently. To mark the rare alignment, we worked with our guest astrologer, Chani Nicholas, to bring horoscopes to users through our brand new Cosmic Playlists. Whether you’re an Aquarius celebrating your birthday or a Libra seeking balance in the new year, U.S. users can now join the half-million listeners following their horoscope’s playlist on our Pop Culture hub. New readings and songs will be added to the playlists each month.

We recently celebrated the occasion with Chani and hip-hop artist Lizzo at an event in Los Angeles. Chani gave Lizzo—a Taurus with Leo rising—her own electrifying astrological reading for the year. Then, Lizzo took to the stage to perform her hit songs, including “Juice” and fan favorite “Good As Hell.”

Astrologer Chani Nicholas Shares How Music Matches Your Horoscope

January 17, 2019

“What’s your sign?” Whether you love or hate the question, the cultural obsession has made its mark. But astrology is no longer simply synonymous with bold predictions about love, fame, and fortune. Instead, it’s attracting more and more people who use horoscope readings as a way to reflect and find direction in their lives. Music can provide that same effect, and that’s why we’re working with astrologer Chani Nicholas to create our new Cosmic Playlists.