Spotify Music Videos Launch in US and Canada, Shaking Up Streaming

Spotify confirmed it will add music videos to its platform in the United States and Canada. The rollout begins in the coming weeks. This marks a major expansion for the audio-streaming giant.

The announcement was paired with a new licensing portal for publishers. This move directly challenges YouTube’s dominance in music video streaming.

How the New Video Feature Will Work for Users

Music videos will be available to both free and Premium subscribers. They will appear within song pages on mobile and desktop apps. Users can switch between audio and video seamlessly.

According to Reuters, the initial catalog includes videos from major and independent labels. The feature builds on a beta test launched in select markets last year. Spotify aims to make music discovery more immersive.

Licensing Push with Music Publishers

A key part of the launch involves a new opt-in portal. It was created with the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA). This allows publishers to directly license audiovisual rights to Spotify.

The system aims to streamline the process for rightsholders. It opens a new potential revenue stream from video plays. This collaboration was critical for the U.S. rollout.

Why Spotify is Betting on Video Now

Spotify’s push into video is a strategic shift. The company seeks to capture more user engagement and advertising revenue. Competing with YouTube’s visual ecosystem is a clear goal.

Industry analysis from the Associated Press suggests this diversifies Spotify’s offerings. It is not just an audio app anymore. The platform wants to be the definitive home for all music content.

For artists, it provides a new tool for promotion. It could also influence how playlists are curated and consumed. Video-first singles may become a more common release strategy.

The Competitive Landscape for Music Streaming

YouTube has long been the default for free music videos. Spotify’s entry changes this dynamic. It brings videos to its massive existing user base.

Spotify reported 281 million paid subscribers in its latest earnings. This gives it significant scale to test new features like video. User retention is another key factor.

By integrating videos, Spotify keeps users within its app. They no longer need to switch to another service to watch a video. This creates a more unified and sticky experience.

Spotify’s move into music videos fundamentally reshapes the streaming wars, making it a true one-stop shop for audio and visual music content.

Info at your fingertips

When exactly will Spotify music videos be available?

The rollout begins in the coming weeks. An exact date for all users has not been specified. It will be a gradual process across the U.S. and Canada.

Do you need a Premium subscription to watch?

No, both free and Premium subscribers will have access. The experience may include ads for users on the free tier. This mirrors YouTube’s model.

How does this affect artists and royalties?

Artists and labels can earn from video streams. The new NMPA portal facilitates direct licensing for publishers. This creates a new potential revenue stream.

Will all songs have a music video?

No, the availability will depend on what rights Spotify secures. The initial catalog will be extensive but not exhaustive. It will grow over time.

Is this feature available in other countries?

It launched in beta in 11 markets like the UK and Germany. The U.S. and Canada expansion is the largest rollout to date. More countries will likely follow.