In 2017, Imani Ellis launched CultureCon, a conference that’s become a must-attend event for more than 10,000 diverse creatives and Black professionals to connect, learn, and build community. CultureCon 2025 was packed with curated conversations designed to spark inspiration while celebrating the expansiveness of Black creativity.
Luckily, the conversation doesn’t end when the conference wraps. It continues on CultureCon Uncut, Imani’s video podcast that brings the unfiltered energy of the live event to fans everywhere. Now, Spotify is celebrating the return of the series for its second season.
Produced by The Ringer, the new season features Imani alongside special guest co-host Ike Slimster, a comedian and visual artist, in conversations with culture shifters blazing their own trails.
“We’re so proud to continue our partnership with CultureCon Studios to center and amplify the stories and creatives that shape our culture and community while celebrating creativity in all its forms,” said Kristin Jarrett, Lead, Equity, Diversity & Impact at Spotify.
The podcast’s return follows a powerhouse panel hosted by Spotify at this year’s CultureCon creative conference. On October 4, industry experts and creators—including Melyssa Ford, host of Hot & Bothered; Scott Evans, part of the new RADAR Creators class of 2025, co-host of Access Hollywood,and creator of the digital series House Guest; and Gil Arias, Spotify Creator Partner Manager—shared their insights on how to launch, grow, and thrive as audio and video creators. The conversation was moderated by none other than Xavier “X” Jernigan, the voice model for Spotify’s DJ in English.
Ready to dive in? Stream Season 2 of the CultureCon Uncut video podcast now.
Rock legend Bruce Springsteen and luminary actor Jeremy Allen White came together last night at Spotify’s London HQ for their first joint appearance in the UK. The exclusive event gave top Spotify fans an early look at Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere, the forthcoming film that explores the creation of Springsteen’s influential 1982 album Nebraska. Nebraska itself is getting a rerelease, Nebraska ’82: Expanded Edition, timed to the movie premiere.
In an intimate conversation, Bruce and Jeremy opened up about the emotional depth of the record, the creative choices behind the film, and the connection between vulnerability and artistry. Fans in the room heard firsthand accounts of a pivotal period in The Boss’ career and how the actor approached portraying one of music’s most enduring icons.
“As you get older, you take more risks in your work and in life in general,” said Bruce on the decision to bring this chapter of his life to the big screen.“[Director] Scott [Cooper] had a really good grasp of the kind of film I’d be interested in—not a standard musical biopic, but a character-driven drama with music.”
RADAR, Spotify’s program for emerging talent, recently hit a major milestone: supporting more than 1,000 artists since its launch in 2020. Around the world, RADAR artists benefit from editorial support, exclusive content, and personalized marketing plans, all tailored to local music culture and audience needs.
To mark the occasion and celebrate RADAR’s global impact, Spotify brought together artists and industry professionals in Berlin on Tuesday for a night of conversation, connection, and live music.
Last week, Spotify and Netflix transformed Guastavino’s in New York City into a delightfully dark Graveyard Gala to celebrate Wednesday Season 2, Part 2. Fans, influencers, and cast members Jenna Ortega, Emma Myers, and Joy Sunday gathered for an immersive Tim Burton-inspired evening filled with Wednesday-themed treats, custom haiku, and spooky surprises.
The highlight of the night was a special appearance by Lady Gaga, who joined the cast to announce her brand-new song, “The Dead Dance,” featured in Part 2 of this season. Guests were invited to step inside bespoke coffins for an exclusive preview of the electrifying new single.
Earlier this month, we promised our Verano Forever party would bring the heat, and our big celebration didn’t disappoint. Last Friday, Verano Forever welcomed more than 700 guests to experience a fusion of music, culture, and the vibrant energy of Latin summer, with memorable performances from chart-toppers, innovators, and genre-shaping artists spanning the Latin music landscape.
Hosted at Regatta Grove, a waterfront venue with panoramic views, Verano Forever saw rising stars Elena Rose, Hamilton, and Luis Vazquez bring their own flavor to the stage, while Rawayana energized fans with a DJ-infused set that included a new song with Elena Rose from their upcoming project.
Latin Afrobeats powerhouse Beéle also performed hits like “si te pillara” and “mi refe,” setting the stage for headliner Myke Towers, who closed out the night with a show-stopping set that included the live debut of “TENGO CELOS” from his latest album, ISLAND BOYZ.
With their new album, hickey, out now, Aussie indie darlings Royel Otis decided to start the celebrations early by bringing their emotionally charged, hook-filled sound to the UK. On Thursday night, the duo played an intimate show at London’s Village Underground, exclusively for their top Spotify fans.
Formed in 2020 in Sydney, Royel and Otis have always moved with an unshakable sense of self, and hickey represents their most fearless leap yet.
This special celebration gave fans the opportunity to hear brand new material from the album, performed live for the very first time. The setlist included recent singles “Moody” and “Say Something,” along with much-loved hits like “Oysters In My Pocket” and their viral covers “Linger” and “Murder On the Dancefloor.”
The wait is over: Stray Kids return with their fourth full-length album, KARMA. And with Spotify STAYdium, fans aren’t just listening, they’re living every moment of it.
Now open in Seoul and Jakarta through August 25, and then heading to Tokyo August 23 through August 27, Spotify STAYdium is a journey into Stray Kids’ latest era. It’s also a tribute to STAY, whose dedication has fueled Stray Kids’ story of grit, growth, and global impact.
“Our fans are the reason for our destiny. We’re also so thankful for Spotify, who has supported us since our rookie year,” said the group. “Partnering with Spotify to bring Spotify STAYdium to life feels like we’ve come full circle. This space celebrates all that we’ve built together with STAY, and we hope they feel our love in every moment.”
As the mercury rises and the days stretch long, Spotify has been turning up the vibrant sounds of South America, Central America, and the Caribbean with our Verano Forever campaign. And the playlist with the same name holding it all together is Verano Forever.
But the party isn’t over yet—in fact, it’s about to begin. That’s because Verano Forever is also a full-blown celebration going down in the heart of Miami on August 22. With its rich blend of cultures and deep ties to Latin music, Miami was a natural choice for this immersive event. It’s more than just a party; it’s a space where artists and fans can connect through shared rhythms, stories, and the unmistakable energy of Latin summer.
For Gen Z Latinos, music transcends mere sound; it’s a vital conduit for cultural connection, a catalyst for unforgettable experiences, and a cherished escape in a fast-paced world. Spotify understands this intrinsic link, recognizing that summer itself is a mood—a time for disconnection and reconnection, for dancing away worries, and for savoring every sun-drenched moment.
For the love of Latin
To that end, Verano Forever also underscores the excitement of the genre’s global ascent, a movement kicked off by artists like Bad Bunny and now brought to life through a new wave of trailblazers.
But it isn’t just the latest hits fueling the 2025 beat. These fan-favorite tracks (all more than five years old) see a spike in global streams each summer:
Also at its heart are the dynamic subgenres shaping the contemporary Latin soundscape. Spotify is creating a dedicated space for listeners to discover and immerse themselves in these rising movements. From Afrobeats Latino, where Latin elements fuse with African rhythms, to Latin House making waves in the electronic dance scene, and Caribbean fusions blending funk, reggae, and soul, the diversity is exhilarating. Even salsa is experiencing a vibrant resurgence, with a new generation of Latin artists breathing life into the iconic genre.
A backstage pass to the heat
Verano Forever will feature in-depth artist storytelling, highlighting the journeys of artists who contribute to this rich tapestry. Names including Rawayana, Beéle, and Myke Towers among others will receive the spotlight with narratives that often trace back to humble beginnings, offering inspiring and relevant insights for fans.
Verano Forever is a testament to Latin music’s undeniable global influence and its power to define a season. Spotify is showing up where Latin culture lives, creating exclusive, fan-first moments that solidify its role as the ultimate curator of a vibrant summertime soundtrack.
Next month, Spotify teams up with Live Nation Urban for an exciting new live music experience: RNB X Live: The UK Sound. This limited concert series will spotlight rising R&B voices from the U.K., with can’t-miss performances from kwn, Odeal, Elmiene, Sasha Keable, and Venna.
Following the success of Spotify’s RNB X After Hours showcase in Washington, D.C., earlier this year, which featured major acts including Normani, Bryson Tiller, and Leon Thomas, this new two-city series will bring the soulful, genre-blending sounds of the U.K. to both coasts of the U.S.
The series kicks off at August Hall in San Francisco on Thursday, August 21, with performances by kwn and Odeal, before heading to Irving Plaza in New York City on Wednesday, August 27, where Elmiene, Sasha Keable, and Venna will take the stage.
Backed by Spotify’s flagship R&B playlist,RNB X, the debut of RNB X Live: The UK Sound marks the latest chapter in the platform’s celebration of R&B’s global evolution. In partnership with Live Nation Urban, this dual concert event kicks off Spotify’s spotlight on U.K. R&B, part of an ongoing effort to amplify regional scenes shaping the genre’s future.
Presales for RNB X Live: The UK Sound begin today via Live Nation at 2 PM ET and Spotify Fans First at 5 PM ET. General ticket sales go live for New York City and San Francisco on August 1 at 10 AM local time.
“The U.S. has long been the mecca for what we recognize as R&B today, but the U.K. has always held its own, with a rich legacy and a wave of fresh, genre-pushing talent,” said Alaysia Sierra, Head of R&B Editorial. “In the age of streaming, the globalization of R&B means we’re more connected than ever to artists who are redefining the sound from across the pond. From legends like Sade, Craig David, and Corinne Bailey Rae to innovators like Cleo Sol, Elmiene, Sasha Keable, and kwn, the U.K. scene continues to evolve with intention.”
With RNB X Live: The UK Sound, we’re giving fans an immersive way to tap into that energy—celebrating what U.K. artists are bringing to the table while spotlighting R&B’s global reach through our flagship RNB X playlist with more to come.
To celebrate the release of KAROL G’s acclaimed new album, Tropicoqueta, Spotify teamed up with the Latin icon to host an exclusive, immersive experience at Paradise Club in New York City. Channeling the bold energy of Karol’s new era, more than 200 fans took part in a night of music and culture.
Blending sounds from across Latin America, Tropicoqueta is a tribute to Karol’s roots. Our celebration brought the new album to life in a one-of-a-kind setting that captured its rhythms and colorful aesthetic. Guests explored the tropical-inspired space before gathering around the stage, where a choreographer taught the crowd some of the fresh dance moves featured in Karol’s latest music video.
The music industry depends on fresh ideas, bold voices, and emerging talent. Yet across the U.K., too many young musicians lack the space to develop their craft, leaving a critical gap in the evolution of new sounds and future careers.
The need for creative spaces has never been more urgent. Between 2010 and 2023, more than 1,200 youth centers closed across the U.K.—an average of one every week. These losses hit underserved communities the hardest, stripping young artists of the safe, supportive environments they need to grow.
To help change this trajectory, Spotify is strengthening our commitment to youth well-being and creativity through the Open Doors Fund, part of our ongoing partnership with Youth Music. Backed by Spotify’s Creator Equity Fund, the initiative provides essential funding and opportunities to empower the next generation of creators—and ensure the spaces that shape them not only survive, but thrive.
Championing youth spaces across the U.K.
To amplify this effort and spark national conversation, Spotify and Youth Music have launched a multichannel campaign that brings the realities facing youth spaces into sharp focus through powerful storytelling and public engagement.
Our hero video captures a week inside a youth center, showcasing the creativity and community these spaces make possible. Acclaimed artist and advocate Kojey Radical dropped in to spend time with Girl Grind UK, a youth music space where young women are building confidence, community, and creative careers, to witness the impact of these spaces firsthand.
Across London, out-of-home placements amplify youth voices in public spaces, while a coordinated social media campaign encourages audiences to engage, share, and take action.
The campaign also lives on-platform through Open Doors, a bespoke playlist curated with Kojey. Featuring both established and emerging U.K. artists who began their journeys in grassroots spaces, the playlist celebrates the vital role these centers play in nurturing talent and calls for their continued protection.
Spotify London welcomes the next generation of creators
As part of our commitment to the Open Doors campaign, Spotify brought the mission to life within our own walls, hosting an inspiring Open Doors Day at our London office. The event welcomed young people from 15 youth centers supported by the Open Doors Fund, offering a space for connection and creativity.
The urgency behind this work is clear. Youth Music warns that within the next decade, young people across eight U.K. regions could lose access to vital music projects. Chronic underfunding—made worse by the cost-of-living crisis—has pushed many community spaces to the brink. Today, two in five (41%) grassroots youth music projects are at risk of closure, a sharp 17% rise since 2024.
“These spaces are the heart of local communities, giving young people a place to feel connected, inspired, and empowered,” said Matt Griffiths, CEO, Youth Music. “With Spotify’s support, we can give these vital spaces a lifeline, ensuring they continue to serve young people for years to come.”
Open Doors Day was designed to equip the next generation with real tools for success. Through hands-on workshops, behind-the-scenes industry insights, and conversations with the Spotify and Youth Music teams, attendees gained invaluable guidance on building creative careers. The day also featured special appearances by award-winning artist Guvna B and Grammy-nominated songwriter Carla Marie Williams MBE, who shared their journeys and inspired young creators to keep pushing forward.
Empowering generations to come
The Open Doors Fund is about more than just keeping the lights on. It’s about lifting up young people, fostering creativity, and providing pathways into the music industry. A staggering 54% of Youth Music’s funded partners have a waiting list of young people eager to participate, but a lack of funds prevents them from doing so.
Spotify and Youth Music are committed to extending the Open Doors Fund into 2026, ensuring that even more youth spaces receive the funding they need to continue supporting young people.
“The Open Doors Fund isn’t just about preserving spaces—it’s about powering what’s possible,” said Kristin Jarett, Social Impact Lead, Spotify. “When young people have the tools, the space, and the support, they create the future of music. We’re committed to making sure those doors stay open.”
The Spotify and Youth Music partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of investing in the next generation of artists. By providing essential resources and opportunities, the Open Doors Fund is helping to keep the beat alive by ensuring that young people from all backgrounds have the chance to pursue their musical dreams. Because the artists of tomorrow need a space to begin.
To learn more about the Open Doors Fund, or to get involved with Youth Music, visit here.
In June, Spotify and Miley Cyrus tangoed in Paris during an unforgettable evening: the latest installment of Billions Club Live. The global superstar took the stage for an exclusive performance for her top Spotify Premium listeners in the area, delivering a set packed with some of her most iconic tracks—many of which have surpassed a billion streams on our platform.
Paris was a fitting choice for this one-of-a-kind event: France consistently ranks among Miley’s top 10 countries for streaming—alongside Brazil, the U.K., and Indonesia. The performance marked Miley’s first concert in the French capital in 11 years, following her Bangerz tour in 2014. Just over 100 fans filled the iconic Maxim’s venue in the heart of the city.
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