Quick Hits: Beats vs. Spotify; a new streaming model
Brief news items and worthy reads from around the web: Beats vs. Spotify; proposed new streaming model Continue Reading
Spotify
Björk questions freemium, but embraces other music technologies
Björk has built the reputation as one of music’s more unique and innovative performers and songwriters, so it’s no surprise that many people listen up to hear her perspective on the industry today. In an interview with Fast Company, Björk addressed some of the challenges that go into releasing an album in today’s music market. She has opted to keep her new album off of Spotify over concerns about its freemium business model. Continue Reading
Spotify announces updates to its desktop platform, including lyrics
Spotify began rolling out a new update to its desktop listening platform this week. The big change is the addition of lyrics. This feature is powered by Musixmatch, and you can access the lyrics by clicking the new button next to the play bar. Continue Reading
In sign of the times, Led Zeppelin opens catalog to more streaming services
In the early days of streaming, it wasn’t uncommon for big-name musicians to withhold their catalogs from online services. Led Zeppelin was a famed holdout, to the point where the band giving exclusive rights to Spotify back in 2013 was groundbreaking. So it’s a sign of the times that the Zep is expanding where you can hear its music. This week, the band opened up its library to listeners on several more platforms, including some that specialize in hi-def listening, such as Tidal and Deezer Elite. Continue Reading
Spotify looking to hire lobbyist
Spotify is looking to hire a vice president of public policy to help give voice to the company’s interests among lawmakers. This new hire will report to Jonathan Prince, Spotify’s global head of communications and public policy. Continue Reading
Sony/ATV licenses music to Spotify for EU despite past critiques
Spotify has inked a new licensing deal with Sony/ATV to offer its catalog in Europe. The deal for Sony’s Anglo-American music covers all 30 territories of the European Economic Area. Sony/ATV Chairman and CEO Martin Bandier has been critical of the payouts that songwriters and publishers receive from streaming, and the latest tie-up seems to have resolved his concerns. Continue Reading
Spotify gets in the Valentine’s Day spirit with data and a new app
In honor of tomorrow’s holiday of hearts and roses, Spotify has given us the most romantic gift of all: data. The company analyzed the songs appearing on the millions of playlists on its platform that center on “Valentine’s,” “love,” and “sex” and shared the top tunes for each. Continue Reading
Spotify and Rhapsody look into their data troves for Grammy predictions
For music’s biggest night, it’s no surprise that many industry members have been trading predictions about who the big winners will be. Streaming services are among those looking into their crystal balls to divine which tunes and artists will take home awards. Continue Reading
Super Bowl 2015: Missy Elliott wins the streaming race
This year’s Super Bowl Halftime Show had everything: elaborate sets, spectacular costumes, and singing sharks. Thanks to Spotify, it also has some fun data about the performers. Continue Reading
Spotify reportedly drops plans for Russian launch
Spotify has reportedly canceled its plans to expand into Russia. The streaming service had hired former Google exec Alexander Kubaneishvili to lead its push into the region, but he told Russian outlet RBC that the company is no longer pursuing that market. Continue Reading
Mark Mulligan: What $500 Million And Jay-Z Say About the State Of Streaming In 2015
by Mark Mulligan
Guest contributor Mark Mulligan examines Spotify’s new financing efforts and Jay-Z’s foray into the streaming business. Continue Reading
Spotify seeks $500M new funding; Jason Calacanis predicts Facebook takeover
The Wall Street Journal reports that Spotify “has expressed a desire” to raise $500-million in private investment, and is working with Goldman Sachs to achieve it. Meanwhile, in an unrelated analysis, past RAIN Summit keynoter Jason Calacanis predicts that Facebook will acquire Spotify. Continue Reading