Spotify has been testing out sponsorship models in its music product for some time. The latest feature under consideration is Sponsored Songs. Although the name is similar to the outside branding features of sponsored playlists, this seems focused within the music industry. Continue Reading
Spotify has inked a deal to further its interests in concerts and ticketing. The streaming company entered a global partnership with AXS and Eventbrite that will see both ticketing companies making personalized concert recommendations to Spotify listeners. Continue Reading
It’s a big news day for Spotify, with 2016 financials and subscriber numbers to sort through from the streaming service. According to its filing, annual revenue for the company totaled €2.93 billion ($3.3 billion), up 52% from the year prior. Spotify’s annual net loss grew 133% to €539.2 million ($597 million). Continue Reading
Last week, Spotify introduced an initiative called Secret Genius designed to shine a spotlight on the importance of songwriters and producers in an artist’s success. This venture will include awards, songwriting camps, curated playlists, and podcasts. Continue Reading
ABC Radio announced that it has entered a collaboration with Spotify to create a podcast called Brilliant Minds. In addition to the joint project, ABC Radio podcasts hosted by the network’s anchors, correspondents, and contributors will now be available on Spotify via a non-exclusive agreement. Continue Reading
Spotify is reportedly pursuing expansion into Vietnam and Thailand. Unnamed sources told TechCrunch about the planned Asian rollouts. Spotify did not comment on those rumors, but it is currently hiring for music editor jobs for both Vietnam and Thailand. Continue Reading
Spotify has settled a class-action lawsuit over mechanical royalties with the creation of a fund for compensating the artists and labels who have not been paid those fees. If approved by the court, Spotify will set up a fund worth $43.4 million for payouts around compositions that it played without paying mechanical royalties. Continue Reading
Spotify has reportedly added four new members to its board of directors in advance of its potential plans for a direct listing on the NYSE. The addition of Tom Staggs, former COO for Disney, has drawn particular notice. Continue Reading
Spotify has announced two changes to its team. First, it has hired M&A specialist Sheila Spence. The other personnel change is the departure of product director Matthew Ogle. Continue Reading
This week, Spotify announced that it is now testing open exchanges for real-time buying for its audio inventory. The streaming company will be working with select SSP and DSP partners for this latest effort in programmatic advertising. Continue Reading
Spotify has embarked on yet another acquisition. The streaming service has bought Niland, a Paris-based machine learning startup offering music analysis technology. Niland’s work has improved how AI can optimize search and recommendation features for music. Continue Reading
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: Warner Music Nashville streaming promotion; Germany moves to make FM-only radio receivers illegal; Spotify valuation still growing. Continue Reading