Spotify is embracing virtual events. The company today announced the addition of virtual event listings in the Spotify app, which will allow music fans to see when their favorite artists will play live, even if only via a live stream. These listings will be available through the "On Tour" section of the artists' profiles and in Spotify's concert hub, the company said.
ProWellTech previously detailed Spotify's plans in this area, but the company made the news official today.
The streaming service claims that artists will be able to list their streaming events on any platform, including Twitch, Instagram Live, YouTube Live, a hosted website, or whatever.
Other virtual events will be automatically imported to the platform thanks to Spotify's existing partnerships with Songkick and Ticketmaster.
Virtual events uploaded via Songkick will now automatically start showing on both artist profiles and the concert hub. Artists can also choose to set their own events as "Artist Choice".
A select number of Ticketmaster events will also be listed on Spotify, the company says.
These new integrations are not surprising, as most major ticketing services have shifted their focus to online and virtual events in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic that has limited real-world dating, such as concerts. At the same time, artists have tried to connect with fans online, often doing live streams or even paid streaming concerts. However, today's virtual gig business is only helping to make up for lost tour revenue for the most part, not completely replacing it.
"With most tours postponed to 2021 and online concerts set to continue, Spotify wants it to be easy for fans to learn about virtual events, whether it's for the artists you already love or for those you're discovering for the first time." company said, in an announcement.
The feature is now available in the Concerts hub under Browse on desktop and Search on mobile, as well as in the profiles of participating artists.
