Spotify rolls out “About the Song” feature, exploring the stories behind music
Spotify has begun rolling out a new feature that lets listeners learn about the real meaning behind their favourite tracks as they listen.
Spotify has officially launched About the Song, a new feature currently in beta that adds storytelling and context directly into the listening experience.
Whether it’s the meaning behind the lyrics or the inspiration for the track, Spotify believes that “understanding the craft and context behind a song can deepen your connection to the music you love.”
That idea is at the core of About the Song. First announced back in November last year, the new feature appears in Spotify’s Now Playing View and uses short, swipeable story cards to give listeners more insight into the music they are hearing. Spotify explains that these cards explore the meaning behind the music you’re hearing and are summarised from third-party sources to surface interesting details and behind-the-scenes moments.
By placing this information directly in the player, Spotify is adding storytelling at the moment it believes listeners are most engaged. This feature means that fans no longer need to leave the app to learn more about a track, making the listening experience more immersive in one simple space.
Here’s how you can explore the stories and meaning behind the tracks you love:
- While listening in the Spotify mobile app, open the Now Playing View.
- Scroll down to find the About the Song card on supported tracks.
- Swipe through to explore the stories behind the track.
As Spotify puts it, “About the Song is another step in our mission to bring you closer to the artists you love.”
From an artist perspective, this new feature provides an additional opportunity for listeners to connect more deeply with songs and artists. The context and history that is provided helps fans understand the real meaning behind a song, which can encourage stronger emotional connections and repeat listens.
About the Song is now rolling out in beta on mobile (iOS and Android) in English for Premium users in the US, UK, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia.