Spotify Launches Cutting-Edge Podcast Studio in Johannesburg, Empowering South African Creators
Spotify is thrilled to announce the opening of a state-of-the-art podcast studio in Johannesburg, marking a significant milestone in its mission to support the growing creator community in South Africa. With the surge in podcast listenership and the rising popularity of video podcasts, this new studio is set to offer local podcasters unparalleled opportunities to refine and elevate their content.
A Boost for South African Creators
Since Spotify entered the podcasting world in 2019, over 500 million people worldwide have tuned into podcasts on the platform. Now, with more than 250,000 video podcast shows, video content has become a central part of the platform’s ecosystem, growing by nearly 70% year-on-year. This trend reflects a global shift in audience preferences, with video podcasts proving to be a powerful medium for engaging and growing fanbases.
For South African creators, the Johannesburg studio opens new doors. Local podcasters will have access to advanced resources, technology, and tools, allowing them to create high-quality video content that resonates with both local and international audiences. Whether focusing on topics like social justice, education, or underrepresented voices, creators will be able to bring their stories to life in a way that captivates viewers.
Video Podcasts: The Future of Engagement
Spotify’s platform is already home to 170 million users who watch video podcasts, with over 70% of them actively engaging with the content. This trend highlights how video podcasts are surpassing audio-only formats in terms of growth and engagement. Audiences not only stay engaged longer but also retain more information from video content, making it a crucial format for creators looking to build lasting connections with their fans.
Globally, video podcasting has become a key strategy for creators to deepen audience relationships, and the new Johannesburg studio will ensure that local talent can tap into this expanding format. By offering a platform where video consumption thrives, Spotify is providing South African podcasters with the chance to stand out and grow on the global stage.
Exclusive Access and Comprehensive Support
The Johannesburg podcast studio will be accessible through an application process, ensuring that selected podcasters are ready to make the most of this unique opportunity. The studio will focus on providing creators with solutions to common challenges such as monetization and audience growth, enabling them to succeed in an increasingly competitive market.
This initiative underscores Spotify’s commitment to empowering creators, particularly in regions where podcasting is still an emerging medium. By giving local voices the tools to create compelling, high-quality video podcasts, Spotify is helping South African stories become more visible to a worldwide audience.
Spotify’s Vision for the Creator Community
Since its inception, Spotify has been dedicated to unlocking the potential of creators and fostering a global community of artists and fans. As video podcasting becomes a vital part of the podcasting experience, Spotify continues to innovate, offering creators not only the tools but the platform to thrive. The Johannesburg studio represents Spotify’s long-term investment in the region’s creative talent, paving the way for a new wave of storytelling from South Africa.
About Spotify
Spotify revolutionized the music industry when it launched in 2008. With a mission to empower a million creative artists and provide billions of fans with a space to enjoy and be inspired, Spotify has become the world’s leading audio streaming service. Today, users can discover over 100 million songs and more than 6 million podcast titles for free, with exclusive features available through Spotify Premium.
With 626 million active users, including 246 million Premium subscribers, Spotify operates in over 180 markets, offering unparalleled access to music, podcasts, and more.
For more information or to join the global community, download the Spotify app via the Android or iOS app stores, or visit Spotify.com.
Stay connected with Spotify Africa on:
- Facebook: @SpotifyAfrica
- Twitter: @SpotifyAfrica
- Instagram: @spotifyafrica
- WhatsApp Channel: Spotify Africa News #SpotifyAfrica
Spotify in Numbers:
- 626 million monthly active users
- 246 million subscription users
- 100+ million songs
- 6 million podcast titles
- Over 4 billion playlists
- Available in over 180 markets
Distributed by Irvine Partners on behalf of Spotify: spotifypr@irvinepartners.co.za
This new venture by Spotify highlights the importance of supporting and amplifying voices from across the world, and the Johannesburg studio is the next step in that mission, ensuring South African creators can shine globally.