Spotify Launches Listening Party Feature

Spotify is bringing fans and artists closer together with its new "Listening Party" feature. 

Currently in testing since December 2023 in the U.S. and Indonesia, the feature is planned for wider rollout according to a Spotify spokesperson.

Listening Party allows dedicated fans to join special events hosted by artists, like album releases.  

These events are listed under the artist's profile and open to any Spotify Premium user, even without a specific invite.

With this feature, fans can request to "go on stage" and interact directly with the artist using Spotify's live audio tech.  The live chat keeps the party buzzing as fans connect and discuss the music.

The feature lets fans browse and purchase the artist's latest merchandise while enjoying the music together. 

This complements Spotify's recent Merch Hub launch, offering personalized recommendations for fan purchases.

Listening Party combines elements of Spotify's existing "Group Session" feature, where friends listen together with live audio chat. 

While Spotify's live audio app is no longer active, the company is repurposing the technology to create unique fan experiences.