Tag: women

Get to Know Some of the Women Featured in Spotify’s New EQUAL Music Program

April 29, 2021

This past March, in celebration of International Women’s Day, Spotify unveiled our new EQUAL hub—our most recent commitment to fostering equity for women in music globally. Today, we’re taking that promise one step further with the launch of our EQUAL Global Music Program.

According to the USC Annenberg study funded by Spotify on representation of women in the music industry, only one in five artists on the charts are women. Yet we know how integral women artists’ influence has been on Spotify and the music industry at large. To begin to upend this disparity, we must amplify the work of women creators by extending our resources and generating more opportunities for these artists, which we’re doing by creating a global, cohesive, branded experience with the EQUAL Global Music Program. We want to do our part: We know that when we give more power to creators, more people listen—and that music shapes the future. So, we’re turning up the volume.

Look out for 35 EQUAL local playlists spanning artists from 50+ countries—from Japan to Argentina, from Malaysia to the UK—as well as our “best-of” flagship EQUAL Global Playlist containing music from EQUAL artists from all around the world. Each month, one artist will be featured on the cover of their respective local playlist, in addition to receiving essential organic and on-platform promotion in their home country and beyond. 

We’re also excited to unveil our Created By Women Playlist to launch within the EQUAL hub, a first-of-its-kind offering featuring 40 songs written, produced, and performed 100% exclusively by women songwriters, producers, and artists from around the world. We’re also relaunching our EQUAL Directory (formerly EQL Directory). This partnership with SoundGirls allows women of all experiences and gender-nonconforming creators to create a profile and claim their space in the community of women changing the game in audio. Finally, we’re creating an EQUAL Board, or a network of organizations joining forces with Spotify to empower women globally. These organizations include She’s the Music (U.S.), Girls Rock Australia Network (Australia), shesaid.so (Italy), MEWEM Europa (Europe), Girl Connected (Canada), Music Women (Germany), and Girls Rock Camp (Brazil).

Can’t wait to hit “play?” We asked some of our EQUAL playlist editors to tell us about some of the inaugural EQUAL artists and why they’re so excited to spotlight them and their work. 

Zoe Wees – Germany 

“We believe many can relate to Zoe and her song ‘Girls Like Us,’ which is about the feeling of insecurity and not fitting in. But above all, it is an empowering anthem and therefore a great fit for our EQUAL launch. At age 18, Zoe Wees has not only proven to be a very honest and emotional songwriter, she also has a powerful voice and is winning fans over, far beyond Germany.”

Saweetie – U.S.

“Saweetie’s own music, as well as her collaborations with Ariana Grande, Bebe Rexha, and Gwen Stefani in recent months, has made it clear that she is a dynamic and versatile force with which to be reckoned. She represents a new class of women artists on the rise who are contributing to building equity in the industry, and her dominance as a woman in her genre speaks to our hypothesis with the EQUAL program that all types of listeners want to listen to women.” 

Griff – UK

“What makes Griff an artist that everyone should hear is her unique and boundless ability to create her own world through her music as a singer, songwriter, producer, art director, and fashion designer, as well as her raw and timeless vocals that capture the emotions of her generation.”

Natalia Lafourcade – Mexico

“Natalia Lafourcade has become one of the greatest exponents of Latin music. During the last five years of her career, Natalia has focused on honoring Latin American folk music, magnifying our roots and taking it to places where it has never been before. Listening to Natalia is a sublime experience: In addition to being an exceptional composer, she’s also a great performer—a voice steeped in romanticism and nostalgia that sings love stories to shake and move our soul.”

DUDA BEAT – Brazil

“DUDA BEAT is a strong female artist who has no fear of creating her own space and original sound. She brings this pop-leaning, sophisticated, and very Brazilian-sounding sonority and aesthetics that excite and challenge her listeners. Her music is a perfect expression of contemporary Brazil: very connected to its roots, culture, and origins while at the same time super in touch with modern trends and constantly pushing itself into new directions.”

Nenny – Portugal

“Portugal is a small market, so EQUAL is a great showcase for its female artists, and Nenny has the potential to go global. She’s a good example of the mark that Portuguese Afrodescendants are leaving in today’s music, and a singer-rapper with street cred in the male-dominated world of Portuguese hip-hop. Nenny appears to be an Afroportuguese Rihanna showing a strong, unique personality through her lyrics (self-affirmative, proud of her heritage, and also socially conscious) and great flair in her singing.”

BOWKYLION – Thailand

“Bowkylion is a born artist; she writes all her own music and produces it as well. Her signature pop tunes and meaningful lyrics prove that music is universal. Bowkylion is one artist everyone should hear because she was the most-streamed female artist in Spotify Thailand 2020, edging out many top international and local acts, and it’s a great opportunity to introduce her to the rest of the world.”

CHAI – Japan

“‘Be the change that you want to see!’ is the message behind this CHAI song, which we thought was a great fit for the EQUAL program. Their neo-kawaii [new cute] songs, along with the overall positive messages they portray throughout their music, are the main reasons why they should be heard by everyone.”

Gyakie – Ghana

“In a country where there isn’t much opportunity for female musicians, Gyakie is braving the odds and changing the status quo, breaking charts both locally and globally that even her male counterparts have not reached. Her unique blend of traditional Ghanaian highlife with Afropop and R&B, coupled with simple yet relatable lyrics, makes Gyakie an exciting artist to fall in love with.”

Tkay Maidza – Australia

“Tkay is one of the most exciting and dynamic artists to come out of Australia in recent years and is a great example of an artist who is pushing musical boundaries and forging their own path. Tkay’s music is full of individualism, confidence, creativity, honesty, and empowerment—all qualities that we want to encourage and celebrate through EQUAL in Australia. Tkay is consistently taking us by surprise with the way she fuses elements of hip-hop, R&B, indie, electronic, pop, and everything in between and beyond in her music. Her powerhouse vocals are a guide through colourful tracks that both move and challenge listeners.” 

Wendy – South Korea

“With her recent solo EP out, Wendy proves to be a strong artist from Korea with her talent that resonates globally. As one of K-Pop’s most influential artists, Wendy’s voice is powerful yet healing, strong yet sophisticated. Listeners and fans will not only hear but also feel her sense of empathy, warmth and gratitude through her voice and artwork. Through EQUAL, we hope more listeners worldwide can discover Wendy and truly feel the warmth she exudes.”

Find all these amazing artists and more on the EQUAL Global Playlist.

What’s New This Week in Spotify Podcasts

March 13, 2020

Welcome to This Week in Podcasts, where we share what’s new in the podcast world. Here you’ll find a roundup of series debuts, can’t-miss episodes, and so much more—all available to stream on Spotify. Whether you fancy yourself a content connoisseur or an audio amateur, you’re sure to discover something worth listening to. Keep scrolling to check out the latest and greatest in podcasts this week—including InCharge with DVF, The Guilty Feminist, and Supernatural with Ashley Flowers.

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 Celebrates Women in the Music Business in Australia

November 27, 2019

Allies: Bring One, Be One, Meet Many. That was the theme of the inclusive Spotify gathering held on Monday, November 25, to celebrate women in the Australian music business.

Hosted ahead of the ARIA Music Awards in Australia (a pivotal industry and cultural moment for the country), the event was an opportunity to bring together and celebrate the achievements of women in music, as well as recognize important support from their allies.

Fashion Icon Cynthia Rowley and Kit Keenan Discuss Mother-Daughter Podcast

July 11, 2019

Cynthia Rowley is more than a fashion designer. She aims to inspire—whether she’s mentoring America’s Next Top Model and Project Runway contestants as a guest judge or sharing lifestyle tips in her best-selling books. It’s only natural that she’s now taking her talents from the design studio to the sound studio. With Ageless, Cynthia explores a host of topics—ranging from fashion to motherhood—with her daughter, Kit Keenan.

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Kit started her own fashion line, KIT, while she was still in college. And like her mother, she’s stitching life and work together into one big journey of discovery that shows no signs of slowing down.

We spoke with mother and daughter about their lives, their work, and their new podcast created in partnership with Spotify and powered by Anchor. 

How does the creative process of podcasting compare to your other endeavors?

Cynthia: Just like any creative project Kit and I do, it’s very collaborative. We both have a strong point of view about most things, so we talk out the topics for days before. But when we go into the recording studio, we just have bullet points and try to let the conversation flow.

What is it about your relationship and your conversations with your mother that resonate with mother and daughter listeners from all walks?

Kit: I’m so lucky to have the type of relationship that I do with my mom. We build each other up, we challenge each other, and we like to make everything an adventure. This being said, we cover so many different parts of our relationship that there’s something for everyone to connect to.

In your Ageless conversations, both your and Kit’s independent spirits come through (especially in your episode-two discussion about college and finding your own path). What are some traits you think Kit got from you? Which are entirely her own? 

Cynthia: She’s always been her own person, and my way of teaching has always been by example (I guess that means she rejected my bad habits!). I know she’s a hard worker, an inventive thinker, and loves to be social. I’m not sure, but I hope I can take credit for that.

You grew up with podcasts, and your mom didn’t. Are you teaching her about the medium? Also, what’s your favorite podcast?

Kit: I don’t need to teach my mom how to talk. She can go on forever—ha! Even though I’ve grown up with podcasts, we’re on this journey together. I think what makes our podcast stand out is how even though my mom and I work in the same industry, we have such different perspectives and experiences.

I have many different interests, so it’s hard to choose just one podcast, but I love Girlboss, Second Life, Goopcast, and The Ultimate Health Podcast, just to name a few. 

Now we’d like to play a game to see how well you two actually know each other. You’re going to answer each question twice—once with your answer, once with the other’s (think “The Newlywed Game” format). Ready?

What do you think are the three keys to being a successful entrepreneur?

Kit: Charisma, organization, and adaptation.

My mom would say curiosity, risk-taking, and never taking no for an answer.

Cynthia: Original and authentic ideas, resourcefulness, and risk-taking.

Kit would say risk-taking, surrounding yourself with smart people, and never taking no for an answer.

We’ll call that round a tie.

What are the three essential things you always pack when you travel?

Kit: A pillow case, resistance bands, and a party dress.

My mom’s answers will be: A bathing suit, heels, and cut-offs.

Cynthia: Swimsuit, cut-offs or jeans, and shades.

Kit will answer: Swimsuit, one of her KIT hoodies, and a tiny bag of beauty products.

Nice—spot-on, Kit!

Final question: Who are your three favorite musicians or bands?

Kit: Travis Scott, Charlotte Lawrence, and Tame impala.

My mom’s favorites are The Kooks, Charlotte Lawrence, and Chance the Rapper.

Cynthia: Chance the Rapper, Eminem, and Iggy Pop.

Kit’s favorites are Charlotte Lawrence, Madison Beer, and The Beach Boys.

Perfectly answered or not, you both have great taste.

See just how well these two know each other by listening to the Ageless podcast. You can also follow them @cynthiarowley and @kitkeenan.

Spotify Celebrates Latinas in Music

March 28, 2019

During International Women’s Month, we celebrate the voices and stories of female creators around the globe. This includes showcasing an ever-growing band of Latina singers in our campaign Mujeres en la Música (Women in Music), in which Spotify brought together more than fifty female artists who are breaking barriers and stereotypes.

In the campaign, each artist relays their experiences of standing out in the music industry, the challenges she faced in getting ahead in her career, and details on how to overcome the various difficulties that women still encounter. The singers also recommend up-and-coming artists who inspire them.

Mujeres en la Música raises the volume on women who champion equality and inspire other women through their art—during International Women’s Month and every day.

Read on for their advice.

“To all the girls who are starting their musical careers, I want to say this: remember that it is not a question of gender, but of talent and defending what you are. Don’t be the same as the rest just because it’s fashionable or because it’s what sells. Be honest to yourself and work hard.” – Ana Torroja, Spanish feminist icon

Ana Torroja

“I’ve always had little hair. ‘Take the bald girl out,’ they said, because nobody was used to seeing that onstage. But it never mattered to us, we were the most rebellious in pop music.” – Federica, of Mexican pop band Kabah

Kabah

“All the women I’ve crossed paths with inspire me in some way. I have composed songs about women in maquiladoras, women in domestic life, migrants and those who challenge society. It is dangerous for women to be powerful, it seems important to me to tell that.” – Lila Downs, Mexican singer-songwriter

Lila Downs

“When I started in music, I was always the only woman in the band. Now I feel that the world is realizing that we have many women in music doing super interesting things, that we can play, compose, and be producers of our art. We have something to say.” – Mon Laferte, Chilean singer and songwriter

Mon Laferte

“When girls are starting their musical careers, I tell them, ‘Now is the best time to be a woman and make music. But this does not mean that we have conquered everything, and it does not mean that people won’t say no. They are going to doubt you. We still have a lot to overcome, but we are doing it with work and with facts, because we are better prepared than ever.’” – Paty Cantú, Mexican pop star

Paty Cantú

“[Today] it is easy to question the necessity of feminism, because girls think that we’re doing very well, without thinking that we only recently started voting and studying. It is important that we achieve equity in all aspects. We need to maintain a critical position and to not give in to the fight.” – Andrea Echeverri, leader of legendary Colombian rock band Aterciopelados

Andrea Echeverri

Listen to the music of these women and the many more who inspire us in our International Women’s Month hub.

Spotify Celebrates the Brazilian Fight for Equality with Escuta as Minas (Listen to Women)

October 16, 2018

Brazilian women are no strangers to the protest song. From Elis Regina’s 1970s cryptic opposition to class inequality in “Arrastão” to Valesca’s 2012 LGBTQ equality and female sexuality anthem “Sou Gay,” the movements of the nation are echoed in its music. Today, the Brazilian Women’s Movement is stronger than ever—and its followers continue to proudly raise their voices against workplace harassment, gender violence, income inequality and, now, their places in the music world.

Spotify creates initiatives to increase diversity and amplify female voices all over the world, from Equalizer in Sweden to Sound Up Bootcamp for women of color in the U.S., UK, and Australia. Now, we’re inspiring our Brazilian audiences to get on board. By joining with several talented Brazilian female artists, we’re turning up their volume and creating an important initiative for lovers of Brazilian music: Escuta as Minas (Listen to Women).

“In every generation in Brazil, women have persevered,” says Gabriela Lancellotti, Spotify Head of Consumer Marketing for Brazil. “Despite hardship and setbacks, we put our best foot forward and sing through the pain. ‘Escuta as Minas’ is an opportunity to recognize that idea while empowering the young people listening to continue to work for full equality in music and in everything we do.”

Statistics show that the music world both in Brazil and globally continues to be male dominated. A study by the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative revealed that 2017 marked a six-year low for female artists in popular content, with women comprising only 16.8 percent of artists. Out of the study’s 651 producers, just 2 percent were female. And of the 899 individuals who were nominated for a Grammy Award between 2013 and 2018, only 9.3 percent were women.

That’s why our campaign, featuring an original song, music video, and documentary, highlights a diverse group of 11 inspirational female Brazilian artists who span the ages—along with their songs, stories, and messages. Our mix includes Cássia Eller, a ’90s Brazilian rock icon, Karol Conká, a contemporary feminist rapper who is breaking barriers and fighting stereotypes, and other established and rising Brazilian stars—Elza Soares,Maiara & Maraisa, MULAMBA, and Mart’nália. Plus, three chosen artists depict female Brazilian music idols from the past: As Bahias e a Cozinha Mineira, Tiê, and Lan Lanh as Chiquinha Gonzaga (1847-1935), Maysa (1936-1977) and Cassia Eller (1962-2001), respectively.

The project was created in a joint effort with the media agency CUBOCC and production company A9 out of existing lyrics from decades of influential female Brazilians who fought for their own space in the world. Inspiring words that symbolize the ongoing fight that has spanned generations include:

“Ó abre alas que eu quero passer.” – “Oh make way, I want to go through.”

“O meu país é meu lugar de fala.” – “My country is my place of speech.”

“Seja o que tiver que ser, seja o que quiser.” – “Be what you need to be, be what you want to be.”

We’ve created a short film about the ongoing quest for women’s equality. At the core of the film is a music video for the original song, which will premiere in theaters, on Smartv, and on the internet in Brazil, as well as live on the Escuta as Minas site (along with English subtitles). The video depicts each artist as a woman from a particular time period to represent the idea that the struggle to be heard is something of many generations.

Want to learn more? Each singer is also featured in a mini documentary on our Escuta as Minas hub in which they share testimonials about their careers, visions, opinions of feminism, and experiences in the industry.

As the film says, “The fight goes on: For more women in music, for more women being heard.”

Jasmine Solano Talks the Highs and Lows of Success On New Podcast Series ‘Ebb & Flow’ (Sponsored By New Amsterdam Vodka)

August 20, 2018

Jasmine Solano knows how to connect with fellow hustlers.

“I’ve been told I’m a mix of Angie Martinez and Oprah when it comes to interviewing artists” she says. “That might be a stretch, but I’ll take it!”

Jasmine is the host of Ebb & Flow, a new podcast from Spotify and New Amsterdam Vodka launching August 20. The five-episode series features candid conversations with rising hip-hop artists and entrepreneurs who have dreamed, worked, and sacrificed their way to the top. As an accomplished DJ, musician, TV host, and influencer herself, Jasmine understands that success doesn’t always come easy, but with talent, dedication, and a little help from the cosmic forces that be, almost anything is possible.

Featuring guests Bryce Vine, GASHI, J.I.D, Saweetie, and Skizzy Mars, Jasmine promises that Ebb & Flow isn’t your “typical” interview series. Raw, personal, and real, it details “the struggles and celebration of the journey.” Below, Jasmine Solano opens up about her own success, how she first launched her career, and how her future with Ebb & Flow was written in the stars.

What was the worst job you ever had?

When I was 17, I worked coat check at a club. There was a good and bad side to that job. Managing 400 coats a night with people losing their tickets and being rude… that was not so fun.

But the DJ, who was generously cool, would let me get on the turntables for a bit at the beginning of the night, before anyone was at the club. I got to practice DJ-ing live there – so my worst job actually became a stepping stone for my future life.

What was the best career advice you’ve ever been given?

Keep going. If you’re on the talent or entrepreneurial side, there are highs and lows… which is why Ebb & Flow is such a great name for this podcast. There are so many risks and heartbreaks involved with being an artist and running your own business and brand. It’s so easy to quit.

You really have to keep going until it pops. Find your groove until it creates momentum. You should have a drive that’s unlike anything else. It has to be fierce, consistent and nonstop… always stay ready for what’s around the corner.

When did you feel like you had really “made it”?

I have a music duo with MeLo-X called Electric Punanny. We’ve toured worldwide several times, and during one of those tours we performed at Glastonbury Festival in the U.K. We played on the Favela Stage, which was an entire wall the length of a New York City avenue decorated like favelas in Brazil. It was wild.

During that experience, I realized, “Wow. We are global. Not everyone knows our name, but we made it.”

You’ve worn a lot of hats throughout your career, including DJ, host, and music influencer. What would you say is your main area of expertise?

DJ-ing is number one. I’ve been DJ-ing now for 15 years.

My second main title is producer, which means many things in my world: producer of music, events, tours, organizing and mobilizing people. I take on roles from booking agent to accountant and everything in between. My expertise varies, but my main passion is understanding the climate of music and culture.

Another passion of mine is bringing people together and creating a space in which they feel comfortable sharing their stories. The reason I was obsessed with Ebb & Flow when I got the call was because I am an artist as well. If anyone can understand the lifestyle, and the trials and tribulations of an artist’s life, it’s me. I love talking to people about why they are how they are. I think those conversations are so fruitful, not just for fans who already love these artists, but people in general who are trying to build from the ground up.

Ebb & Flow is not your typical interview series. In some of the episodes, artists started tearing up. We got into some really emotional talks. It really just felt like I was talking to some of my best friends. I think that just comes from artists talking to artists, entrepreneurs talking to entrepreneurs; there’s a sense of understanding and comradery. It’s going to be really beautiful for fans to hear these conversations throughout the series.

Ebb & Flow isn’t the first time you’ve collaborated with New Amsterdam Vodka. What do you value most about being a New Amsterdam Vodka ambassador?

The people behind New Amsterdam Vodka have their finger on the pulse in terms of what to support. A lot of artists and entrepreneurs need partnerships, especially for creative ideas that need funding and backing. New Amsterdam Vodka has been one of those brands identifying projects and people that are pushing the culture forward.

The ethos of New Amsterdam Vodka is similar to that of a touring artist: The person that is always out pushing the needle and making the most of life. It’s definitely the perfect partnership.

How were you first approached about hosting Ebb & Flow?

It’s a really funny story. Back in January, someone told me, “It’s about the ebb and flow.” People have probably heard that phrase their whole lives, but for some reason, I had not heard it in at least a decade. I loved the meaning behind it, which references the waves of the sea. Like the seasons and the tide, everything has cycles.

A week later, my acupuncturist had a candle that said “ebb and flow.” Then I heard a song on the radio called “Ebb and Flow.” Every two weeks, “ebb and flow” would somehow come up in my life.

Then I got the call for this show and expressed how much I loved the concept. Then they told me the title was Ebb & Flow, and I nearly lost it!

So crazy! Do you think that when it comes to success, there’s something cosmic at force, or do you think it’s more luck, or hard work? Maybe a combination?

It’s everything you mentioned. It’s cosmic energy, destiny … mixed with devotion, timing, hard work, and talent.

I’m no guru; I don’t know the formula. But when people have all of that going at the same time, special things always happen.

Listen to Jasmine Solano host all 5 episodes of Ebb & Flow starting today, August 20.

Announcing the Equal (EQL) Studio Residency Program for Women

August 15, 2018

In partnership with Berklee College of Music and Electric Lady Studios, Spotify’s EQL Studio Residency will help open the door for emerging female producers and engineers while shining a light on the great work already being done by women in the music industry.

Starting in October, the program will offer three residencies in three different cities: New York, Nashville, and London. During these paid six-month residencies, one participant in each city will work hands-on in our studios and gain access to invaluable networking and mentoring opportunities to further her career.

In New York, the resident will split her time between the famed Electric Lady Studios and our own Spotify Studios. In Nashville and London, residents will work out of our Secret Genius Studios, where we’ve shown our commitment to supporting emerging songwriters and producers.

“Women are underrepresented as artists, songwriters, engineers and producers,” says Kerry Steib, Director of Cultural Impact. “We have to use our resources to create opportunities to address this, and do it with great partners across the industry. This is just the beginning.”

“This exciting collaboration recognizes the many contributions women make in the music industry,” says Darla Hanley, Dean of the Professional Education Division at Berklee. “We are happy to support and mentor the recipients of the EQL Studio Residency and look forward to sharing our expertise and many decades of combined experience across all corners of the industry with them.”

“Electric Lady is thrilled to partner with Spotify’s EQL Studio Residency alongside Berklee College of Music in encouragement of more women in audio production, “ says Lee Foster, Partner/ General Manager Electric Lady Studios. We are strong supporters of this movement and look forward to meeting the next generation of women engineers and producers.”

Ready to apply? Here’s what you need to know:

  • Applications are now live and close at 5 p.m. EST on August 24.
  • Residencies will start October 1.
  • Apply here: Nashville / New York / London

Equalizer Project Networking Dinner – Get to Know the Rising Female Stars of Swedish Music

June 15, 2018

On her “Witness” World Tour stop in Stockholm this weekend, pop megastar Katy Perry did more than perform. Before entertaining the thousands of fans in her audience, Spotify invited her to sit down with the next generation of Swedish female music professionals to network, provide advice, and encourage them to follow their dreams.

Katy was invited to be a part of the third Equalizer Project networking event and dinner, during which five up-and-coming female creators (artists, songwriters and producers) met with industry professionals including Katy, Spotify CEO Daniel Ek, and Swedish songwriter and record producer Max Martin—one of the most awarded producers globally—to share their experience and learn from each other.

The Equalizer Project was initiated last year in our Stockholm office. The project, which currently includes a podcast and networking events, comes out of a desire to fuel discussions about equality and breaking norms in the music industry, and music studios in particular. The goal of these discussions is to drive change and increase the prevalence of women in the music industry.

Other guests included Spotify’s Nordic Managing Director Jenny Hermanson, as well as some of the world’s most prominent producers and songwriters – Shellback, Noonie Bao and Tove Styrke. The group welcomed five rising Swedish talents to the dinner on Saturday.

The five rising stars included names such as Janice Kavander, whose debut album “Fallin Up” was released in the beginning of 2018. Another attendee, Caroline Cederlöf aka GRANT made her 2018 debut with three critically acclaimed singles. Triple threat producers, songwriters and artists Thea Gustafsson aka Becky and the Birds, Bishat Araya joined the crew along with Emma Bertilsson aka KIDDO, who has co-written for Icona Pop, Soleima, Alan Walker, and SHY Martin.