Spotify and Netflix in talks over music award shows, live concerts, and more: What could it mean for artists?
The two streaming giants are eyeing a crossover which could bring more music content, and more opportunities for artists.
What’s on the table?
Netflix and Spotify might be cooking up something new. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, the two streaming platforms are in talks about teaming up on a range of music-driven projects. What will they partner on? Think award shows, a live concert series, and artist interviews. Beyond these longer projects, Netflix is also eyeing up projects with a quicker turnaround to keep the conversation going, such as artist documentaries.
The goal? Create new offerings which expand reach, beat competition, and boost their respective subscriber base. While neither side has confirmed anything yet, a partnership could make sense. Music ally notes that Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos sits on Spotify’s board, and the companies have previously partnered on playlists and podcasts back in 2019.
Why Netflix is interested
Netflix has reignited its interest in producing music-focused shows. It plans to reboot US talent show ‘Star Search’, and a new music contest show called ‘Building the Band’ will be debuting soon.
By adding more unscripted TV shows within music, such as concerts and award shows, Netflix can tap into fandom culture and offer real-time content that will drive conversation. In doing so, it helps Netflix compete with other streaming platforms and traditional TV programming that provide similar shows.
What about Spotify?
As for Spotify, this news comes following the platform’s attempts to diversify into video. Across both music and podcasts, Spotify has been expanding its video offering in recent years.
Just last year, Spotify introduced and expanded its music video beta availability on the platform- a feature that competitors like YouTube Music and Apple Music already offer. More recently, began offering financial incentives to podcast creators to put their shows on Spotify, and launched a new video series titled ‘The Come Up: Center Stage’ which puts a spotlight on emerging artists.
A partnership with Netflix could give Spotify greater access to video production capabilities and a captive audience used to watching video content.
What could this mean for artists?
If it goes ahead, this partnership could be a big win for artists- especially those looking to expand their reach. More Netflix shows could open up more opportunities for artists to shine in front of millions of viewers, checking out your music and becoming a fan as a result.
Other opportunities lie within live shows, interviews, and documentary content as they can help build and strengthen the connection between fan and artist. Getting to know artists on a more personal level could lead to greater fandom, and even help artists develop their own set of superfans that will support them throughout every stage of their career.
Final thoughts
While nothing’s been officially confirmed yet, this collaboration could blur the lines between music and visual storytelling – and open the door to new creative opportunities and fan connections.
If Netflix and Spotify do move forward, the potential benefits for both companies and the music industry is worth keeping an eye on.