Spotify take on Deezer and Apple Music with original, exclusive podcasts
Spotify are taking on rival streamers with some new exclusive content on their music service, with 3 new podcasts focussed on the music industry.
As more and more music streaming services arrive, the challenge to offer a unique platform becomes more and more difficult. Whilst some like Apple Music and Tidal go after exclusive music releases, Spotify said they wouldn’t go after music opting instead for unique ways to stand out in the industry.
So instead of music Spotify are joining services like Google Play and Deezer in offering podcasts, except Spotify’s will be originally produced by themselves. All 3 of Spotify’s exclusive podcasts will take a deep look inside the music industry “with each series, listeners will get an intimate look into music’s most notable, interesting and often untold stories.
Here’s what you can expect from each podcast:
SHOWSTOPPER – Premieres February 23
Hosted by Naomi Zeichner, Editor in Chief of The Fader magazine, Showstopper brings together two of the most culturally relevant topics of our time: TV shows and music. Through interviews with music supervisors, this biweekly podcast provides a pop culture analysis of our favourite music moments in TV. Season 1 will feature Girls, OC, Scrubs, Stranger Things, Being Mary Jane and more. Produced in partnership with Slate/Panoply Studios.
UNPACKED – Premieres March 14
Co-hosts Matt FX, music supervisor for Comedy Central’s Broad City, and Michele Santucci of Spotify Studios, travel to festivals around the country for daily interview with musicmakers, filmmakers, app-makers, food-makers and all manner of creative folks gathering together. Can’t roadtrip to all the cultural festivals? Don’t worry they’ve got you covered, starting in Austin, Texas at the annual South by Southwest conference and festival in March.
THE CHRIS LIGHTY STORY (working title) – Premieres April
The Chris Lighty Story chronicles how music industry exec extraordinaire, Chris Lighty shaped the careers of some of hip hop’s most beloved artists like 50 Cent, LL Cool J, Missy Elliott, Foxy Brown, and Puff Daddy. His life followed a twisting path, with an abrupt end that left the music world reeling.
Touching on issues of race, mental illness, the development of a new art form and the price of success, this podcast, hosted by Reggie Ossé unpacks his story in a way that’s relatable to all music fans. The series features direct commentary from Russell Simmons, Fat Joe, Warren G, The Violator Crew, Noriega, DJ Red Alert, Troy Carter and many more. Produced in partnership with Gimlet Media and Loudspeaker Network.
Spotify say that they’re planning even more originals for later this year.