SoundCloud introduces Fan Recognition: Putting a spotlight on artist-fan connections
SoundCloud’s new feature lets artists celebrate their biggest, day-one supporters.
What is fan recognition?
Leaning into the superfan connection, SoundCloud’s new ‘Fan Recognition’ feature highlights an artist’s most dedicated supporters. Fans are the backbone of an artist’s journey, and this tool acknowledges their early and continued support in a visible, interactive way.
The feature takes centre-stage on an artist’s track page via the web and includes two key charts:
- First fans: These are the listeners who played and liked a track the most before anyone else. Names are displayed in order of plays during the first week.
- Top Fans: This list showcases the most devoted listeners- those who have played a track the most over time, and kept it on repeat.
By spotlighting these listeners, artists can foster deeper relationships with their most loyal fans, strengthening long-term engagement.
The importance of artists and fans
Superfans play a crucial role in an artist’s success, with industry insights emphasising the importance of direct-to-fan relationships. For example, Luminate reports that 63% of first-week physical album sales for 2024’s top 200 albums in the US came from direct-to-fan engagement. Additionally, 90% of superfans interact with artists through live performances, demonstrating the power of strong fan connections.
For artists, this feature is a powerful tool for recognising and nurturing their most dedicated listeners early on. Strengthening these connections can lead to increased music sales, merch purchases, and live show attendance- all of which are essential to long-term career sustainability.
For fans, it’s an opportunity to receive recognition for their support. Appearing on an artist’s ‘Fan Recognition’ list solidifies their connection with their favourite musicians, reinforcing their role in the artist’s journey.
Who’s eligible?
To appear on an artist’s ‘Fan Recognition’ list, fans must meet certain criteria:
- Be aged 18 or older
- Have liked the track and followed the artist
- Have a username, profile picture, and a verified email address
Fans also have the option to opt out of the programme if they prefer.
Enhancing fan engagement
SoundCloud’s ‘Fan Recognition’ feature enhances artist-fan interactions by acknowledging the most dedicated supporters. By making fan engagement more meaningful, SoundCloud is helping artists cultivate lasting relationships that can translate into long-term career success.
“This is just the beginning of how SoundCloud is making fan engagement more meaningful.”
SoundCloud