Spotify users may notice a change in the “New Music Friday” lineup on the app. The popular audio streaming service has introduced a new “Verified by Spotify” badge to distinguish human artists from AI-generated music creators. With AI-generated music gaining popularity on the platform, Spotify aims to provide transparency and authenticity to its users.
The green badge, featuring a check mark, is designed to highlight artists who have demonstrated consistent listener engagement over time. Spotify’s criteria for verification also includes looking for a visible presence both on and off the platform, such as active social media accounts, live performances, and merchandise sales.
According to Spotify, artists need to maintain at least 10,000 active listeners for three consecutive months to meet the verification threshold. The company also considers artists who have made significant contributions to music culture and history, as well as those gaining momentum in the industry.
Andrew Cash, the President and CEO of the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA), expressed support for the verification system, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between human-created music and AI-generated content. However, he raised concerns about the potential challenges the verification criteria may pose for emerging independent artists seeking broader exposure.
Spotify clarified that the verification process will continue in phases over the coming weeks and will be ongoing. Notable artists like Madonna, BTS, and Bad Bunny have already received the green badge, along with Canadian talents such as The Beaches, Cameron Whitcomb, and Jeremy Dutcher. However, artists like Joni Mitchell, Roy Orbison, and Celia Cruz are yet to be verified.
While Spotify has implemented the verification system for music artists, the company confirmed that podcasts, including popular shows like The Joe Rogan Experience and Smartless, will not receive the “Verified by Spotify” status for now.
Unlike some social media platforms that offer verification for a fee, Spotify stated that it has no plans to monetize its verification badges. However, concerns have been raised about the potential impact of the verification process on smaller independent artists.
Spotify’s verification standards, including the 10,000 active monthly listener requirement, have sparked discussions about how the criteria may affect artists trying to establish themselves in the music industry. The evolving nature of the verification process leaves room for changes in the future.
