Tag: sports

Getting Ready for the Big Game? Tune In to These Sports Podcasts and Spotify Greenroom Live Rooms

February 10, 2022

It’s no secret that football fans have an insatiable appetite for the game and everything that surrounds it. And they’re often looking to go deeper—whether by digging into the stats of a player or team, entering a fantasy league, or connecting with other fans. The week leading up to the biggest game of the year (and the week coming out of it) is no exception.  

Podcasts provide the perfect medium for rabid fans to get their football fill, hear from the experts, and reflect on the way sports influence society—and vice versa. Spotify has the home-field advantage on all sports and gaming talk with podcasts from The Ringer, live Spotify Greenroom discussions, and custom curations on our latest podcast editorial hub, The Roster. 

Whether you’re creating or consuming content, Spotify has plenty for you to warm up with as you prepare for the Big Game.  

Rounding out The Roster

The Roster is our new community for sports, betting, and gaming, and it has made its rookie debut on Spotify just in time for the Big Game. Like our other podcast editorial hubs, The Roster is a one-stop-shop destination for fans across many different communities, backgrounds, and sports to find the game-day discussions they’re looking for. Fans can find a five-episode weekly curation of the biggest sports conversations under Podcast Browse every Thursday. (This week, it includes Let’s Go! with Tom Brady, Larry Fitzgerald and Jim Gray, “Tom Brady Speaks Post-Retirement for the First Time.”) 

Plus, leading into the Big Game, The Roster’s four distinct shelves have been broken down into themes celebrating many different aspects of football: 

Most Valuable Playlists: This shelf is dedicated to guest curations featuring talent from The Ringer, sports journalists, iconic athletes, and other voices within the sports and gaming communities. Make sure to check out The Ringer’s Bill Simmons’s ultimate guide to this weekend’s game. 

Sports on Demand: This space updates weekly to provide the best podcast episodes that recap, forecast, and bring awareness to the moments, events, and athletes of the month. Of course, this week it’s football themed with curated episodes recapping previous games, including selections like The Man to Man with DB & AB (that’s Antoine Bethea and Darius Butler for the uninitiated), who speak to Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs. 

Beyond the Game: Fans of experiences that speak to the human side of sports can come here for stories of injustices, scandals, inequalities, testimonies, triumphs, breakthrough moments, and beyond. For example, this week you’ll find the Black Girls Talk Sports podcast episode “Celebrating National Girls and Women in Sports Day.” 

The Moneyline: There’s a world beyond the game, whether that’s fantasy or betting, and this shelf digs into that. So this week, check out The Ringer Gambling Show, “Initial Super Bowl Leans and Putting Together Prop Bet Narratives.” 

Not a fan of football? No sweat. Tune back in ahead of upcoming basketball, baseball, and soccer championships and playoffs—as well as many more moments—for custom curations to help avid fans of all types wade through the stands to find sports and gaming content they’re craving.

The Ringer Shows Live From Los Angeles at Radio Row

Back in 2020, Spotify acquired The Ringer and with it, the very best podcasts from across the world of sports. So this week, The Ringer hosts will be recording special episodes from Radio Row across your favorite podcasts like The Ringer NFL Show; New York, New York; The Full Go with Jason Goff; The Ringer Fantasy Football Show; and The Ringer Gambling Show. Here are the shows to check out:

The Ringer NFL Show: Known for featuring a rotating panel of football experts, The Ringer NFL Show hits LA to bring fans the lastest news and insights ahead of the Big Game. Join hosts Kevin Clark, Nora Princiotti, Ben Solak, Steven Ruiz, Jason Goff, James Jones, Ryan Shazier, Mallory Rubin, and Kaelen Jones as they break down everything you need to know. 

Throughout the past week, The Ringer’s hosts have been breaking down the action. On Tuesday, Kevin, Danny, and Ben discussed and shared their picks for Super Bowl LVI. On Wednesday, Jason James and Ryan shared their early thoughts, including James’s and Ryan’s personal playoff stories. Still to come this week, the hosts of The Ringer NFL Show will sit down with Maxx Crosby, Mike Evans, Matt Ryan, Zach Ertz, and more! Fans can also find episodes of The Ringer Fantasy Football Show in the same feed. 

New York, New York: Veteran New York sports talk host John Jastremski gives his unique take on all the big stories in the Big Apple and beyond, including interesting guest conversations, gambling picks, and reactions from you, the listener. On Radio Row, JJ will be joined by Victor Cruz, Mike Golic, Mack Hollins, Jerome Baker, Kevin Mawae, and more to bring the New York perspective to the LA standoff. 

The Full Go with Jason Goff: Chicagoland’s own Jason Goff teamed up with The Ringer to put his unique spin on the Windy City sports scene. Featuring insights and analyses, interviews with friends and people who matter in town, and reactions from you, the listener, this is your new home for all things Chi. This week, Jason will speak with Greg Newsome and Anthony Walker for the podcast and will be live on Spotify Greenroom with additional guests.

The Ringer Gambling Show: The Ringer Gambling Show is here to help you place your bets on the biggest sports around the world. Join NFL Analyst Warren Sharp on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays with guests Chris Vernon, Ben Solak, and Joe House to guide you through the NFL betting landscape. Each week, they will cover everything from spreads, game totals, and parlays, to player props, futures, post-game reactions, and more. Tune in for everything you need to know about how to score big on game bets!

Get it all live on Greenroom

All week long, Spotify Greenroom and The Ringer hosts have been on the ground in Los Angeles broadcasting live from Radio Row—something that will continue well into Game Day. 

On Sunday, Spotify Greenroom’s live coverage of one of the biggest days in sports kicks off with John Jastremski’s guide to the best bets, most entertaining props, and absolute locks for the action ahead with The Ringer Gambling Show. When the game ends, tune in live for a one-two punch of post-game reaction, breaking down everything that happened on the field . . . and everything that happened off of it. 

John Jastremski and Jason Goff have the on-field action covered with The Ringer’s Super Bowl Postgame Show, while The Press Box’s Bryan Curtis and David Shoemaker will deliver their takes on everything besides the football—the commercials, the announcers, and, of course, the halftime show.

And for a little lighter take before pregame kicks off, check out the football-themed episode of Spotify Greenroom’s Dating Makeover, featuring The Ringer‘s Danny Heifetz as he joins show host Jared Freid to talk love and football.

Not sure where to begin? Tune into The Ringer NFL Show ahead of—and after—the Big Game. 

US Open Champ Sloane Stephens Shares the Music That Keeps Her Energized

August 27, 2021

As August comes to an end, one of tennis’s biggest events is just beginning: the 141st US Open, marking the fourth and final Grand Slam event of the year. And making an appearance for her ninth year at the Open is American tennis pro and 2017 champion Sloane Stephens. 

After a year of empty fan stands and new challenges, Sloane is excited to be back in the game, following up on her 2017 US Open win and first Grand Slam tournament title. And to get herself and her fans in the competitive spirit, she’s even created an exclusive playlist for Spotify featuring positive, upbeat tracks that keep her energized and motivated both on and off the court. 

As Sloane takes on her fellow tennis pros, fans can stream her personal pump-up playlist Sloane in the City featuring artists like Ariana Grande, Cardi B, and Rayana Jay. The star athlete curated these songs based on current bops and all-time favorites, using them as her soundtrack during practice, workouts, and the quieter, more nerve-wracking moments of competition.

For the Record caught up with Sloane between sets to ask her about her life as a professional tennis player and the music that keeps her on her A game. 

You’re returning to compete in the US Open. How does it feel?

It’s always great to be back in New York! I love playing here, and I really feed off the energy of the city, so it will be great to have the crowd back out here with us.

How do you get in the right mindset before a match?

I like to meet with my coach the night before to discuss the game plan and any specific strategy so that once I wake up on match day, I can lock in. There can be a lot of “hurry up and wait” in tournament schedules depending on the weather or how long the match before mine takes, so it’s important to keep relaxed and be comfortable with changes. Music helps me stay centered and tune out the distractions. 

Where does music fit into your daily routine?

I’m always on the go and music is a staple in my routine. When I’m getting ready, training, recovering, or traveling, there is always music playing from my phone. Since I travel all the time for my job and tennis is such a global sport, I’m constantly being introduced to new songs. I think it’s a great way to connect with people and learn about what’s popular in their culture. Even if you don’t speak the language somewhere, everyone can recognize a good song. 

Any favorite songs or artists when you’re training?

Ariana Grande. She is my favorite artist, so whenever I’m training, she’s right there with me. My team laughs because I even play her slower songs in the middle of tough workouts, but she always keeps me going. I just love her! 

How do you like to wind down from a day of competition? 

Sometimes I’ll finish a match and press after midnight, or time zones are playing with me, and I’ll have to find a way to unwind so I can sleep and have a productive next day. Over the years, I’ve discovered how important self-care rituals are to this process, and I created a routine that I can do anywhere in the world. After a nice meal, I’ll take a long shower and drop my essential oils into the steam to create a spa moment. After that, I’ll light a candle and do my skin care routine, which usually includes a face mask. When I’m winding down the vibe is peaceful, and I play artists like Rayana Jay, Samaria, and VanJess.

Talk us through curating this playlist. Any recommendations on how listeners can get the most out of your song choices?

I worked on this playlist for a few weeks and added whatever came to mind at that time. It’s a mix of current hits and artists and songs I’ve always loved. I’m all about positive energy, so whether it’s a song from 30 years ago or yesterday, if the vibe is right, it stays with me. I usually put my playlist on shuffle and let it flow. 

Are there any songs on the playlist that have a special meaning? 

I have memories with so many of the songs on this playlist, and I’m sure a lot of listeners do, too. Specifically related to the US Open, “Bodak Yellow” by Cardi B takes me back. After I won in 2017, we blasted it on repeat in the car the entire drive back into the city. The song had just come out earlier that summer, and when I hear it now, it brings me back to that specific time and place. 

Ready to press shuffle? Listen to Sloane’s positive energy playlist, Sloane in the City, below. 

Live Audio Is Here: ‘Spotify: For the Record’ Explores the New Spotify Greenroom App

July 15, 2021

On this week’s episode of our podcast Spotify: For the Record, we look at the live audio space to see where it’s headed and how Greenroom is part of the equation.

Earlier this year, we introduced Spotify Greenroom, our new live audio app. Available on iOS and Android in over 135 markets, the app offers creators and users a whole new way to connect. From real-time sports reactions to instant interactions with your favorite artist, live audio is providing a new avenue for listeners to engage with content that interests them. 

On the podcast, Spotify’s Head of Creation Platform, Michael Mignano, brings us up to speed on live audio and the appeal of joining the conversations taking place in these virtual rooms. Next, mixed martial arts journalist and The Ringer’s Ariel Helwani shares how he’s using Greenroom as a way to provide live sporting event coverage and connect with an international audience. Finally, Hot Pod News founder Nick Quah talks about the live audio medium, how it differs from traditional podcasting, and where he expects it to go from here.

Get all the details by listening to “Spotify Greenroom & the Future of Live Audio.”

NFL Star Saquon Barkley Talks Football and His Top Sports Podcasts

January 23, 2020

Saquon Barkley knows football. Thanks to his success on and off the field, he’s become a household name—and personality—in both collegiate and professional football. He’s also expanding his talents to other areas by partnering with Spotify to curate a playlist of his favorite football podcasts. Now you can be as in the know as he is, and just in time for the season to start.

Saquon spent three seasons as an All-American running back for the Penn State Nittany Lions, breaking records and garnering acclaim as one of college football’s most promising athletes. More recently, he was chosen second overall by the New York Giants in the 2018 NFL draft, where he was awarded Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2019.

Now Saquon is hooking up fans with all the best football podcasts. We sat down with him to chat about streaming podcasts on the go, the teammate he thinks should host his own talk show, and more.

During the course of a season you’re constantly on the move. How do you keep up with the latest news around the league?

I used to be able to watch TV and listen to a few radio shows, but we’re on the go so much that plugging in a podcast is the most efficient way. I need a source that allows me the flexibility to choose when I can tune in, and podcasts allow me to do that. I usually don’t have the opportunity to listen live, so being able to go back to recorded episodes that I can catch up on at home, in the car, heading to practice, or traveling for away games is great.

Why should die-hard football fans try podcasts?

I think we’re in the infancy of podcasting, and it’s only going to gain popularity. It’s another form of information, and if you’re a die-hard fan, why wouldn’t you want more? Football shows are great for getting broad stats, updates, and news, but what’s cool about podcasts is that if you’re really into fantasy or a certain topic, there’s usually a niche podcast out there that you can find and really familiarize yourself with.

What are your favorite football or sports podcasts to listen to, and why?

I love Pardon My Take. Any time you get different opinions I like to hear both sides, and I enjoy the arguing. Also, The Pat McAfee Show 2.0 is hilarious. I think he’s great. He’s got an interesting perspective because he played football. He understands the game and also has an amazing personality. It’s a great combination.

Which of your teammates do you think should have his own podcast? Why?

Sterling Shepherd. He’s hilarious. I think it would be nonstop laughs. 

What non-football podcasts do you listen to?

The Brilliantly Dumb Show. Robby Berger is amazing. In his podcast he covers sports but also goes beyond to share funny stories and experiences he has encountered in everyday life. One of my favorite episodes is episode 31, “Bobby Baseline and the Hardwood Boys.” Gives an amazing description of when we first met. It had me dying, he’s so funny.

What’s your go-to jam to get in the right headspace before a big game?

Anything Drake really, he always gets me in my bag. 

Stream Saquon’s playlist for a podcast touchdown.

The 9 Best Moments From the World’s Game (Football) as Told by Streaming Data

July 13, 2018

Since kicking off last month, the world’s game has captivated fans around the globe. From the opening match of the world’s game to its wild semi-final, there’s been no shortage of drama, including joyous triumphs, bitter disappointments, and surprise upsets. In other words: It’s been awesome. But the excitement hasn’t been limited to the pitch—fans also love a little soundtrack to accompany their cheers.

Check out 9 of the most exciting football moments from the past few weeks as told by Spotify streaming data.

1. June 15: ‘La Roja Baila’ Heats Up For Spain vs. Portugal

The heated match between historical rivals Spain and Portugal inspired a huge increase in streams of “La Roja Baila” (“The Red Dance”), a collaboration between Spanish singer Niña Pastori and footballer Sergio Ramos. The track, which was the official anthem of the Spanish National Team for the 2016 Euro Cup, saw a 43 percent increase right after the action went down.

2. June 16: Iceland Brings it ‘Home’ In their First Tournament Appearance

In its first-ever World Cup match, Iceland scored against Argentina, ultimately tying them 1-1 in their debut game. The country’s historic goal—and goalkeeper Hannes Þór Halldórsson’s awe-inspiring save against Argentina’s Lionel Messi—energized an entire nation to turn up the music. One song that spiked ʼround the fjords was “Eg er kominn heim” (“I’ve Come Home”), Iceland’s favorite football song.

Spotify streaming during Iceland’s first appearance

 

3. June 18: Mexico Rejoices in Historic Song For Win Over Germany

When Mexico beat Germany 1-0, fans couldn’t stop streaming “Cielito Lindo,” or “Lovely Sweet One,” a popular folk song. In recent years, the song has become an unofficial football anthem, with fans calling, “Sing and don’t cry!”

4. June 26: Messi and Rojo Score On The Field and at ‘The Club’

After tying Iceland, Argentina bounced back against Nigeria with triumphant goals from Lionel Messi and Marcos Rojo. Fans turned it up with El Pepo’s“Hoy Acá en el Baile” (“Here Today at the Club”), which spiked by about 114 percent.

5. June 28: Mexico Goes ‘Gangnam’ For South Korea’s Victory Over Germany

South Korea’s surprise win over Germany kept Mexico in the tournament, which inspired Mexican fans to honor their good fortune with a Korean electro hit. “Gangnam Style”—as much a pop culture phenomenon as a song—was Mexico’s biggest party jam right after the match.

6. July 3: England Celebrates Penalty Shootout Win Over Colombia in Signature Style

England’s match against Colombia was a close one, but the Three Lions eventually triumphed 4-3. Naturally, English fans celebrated with their signature football anthem, 1996’s “Three Lions,” by The Lightning Seeds, which was streamed over 450,000 times.

7. July 3: Sweden Gets Nostalgic During First Quarterfinal in 24 Years

Sweden made it to a World Cup quarterfinal for the first time since 1994, which offered fans a great reason to get nostalgic. They chose to reminisce with a classic track from that year, “När vi gräver guld i USA,” which translates to “When We Dig For Gold In The USA.”

8. July 6: Belgium Emerge as ‘Champions’ Against Brazil

Belgium had a lot to celebrate when the team beat Brazil 2-1. And what better victory theme is there than “We Are The Champions”? Belgian streams of the classic Queen track increased by almost 289 percent after the match.

9. July 10: France ‘Survives’ Belgium (With a Little Help from Gloria Gaynor)

Gloria Gaynor’s 1978 disco empowerment anthem “I Will Survive” probably wasn’t written for the soccer field, but it worked wonders for France, who increased streams of the song by more than 800 percent after their 1-0 win against Belgium.

Getting pumped for the final match? Get in the spirit of the World’s Game with our football-inspired playlist.