Spotify introduces writer and producer credits

Spotify has introduced songwriter and producer credits, alongside performer rights.

In a move to create stronger relationships with the music industry, a desktop platform user can click on Show Credits from the menu.

At this point the data showed will come from record companies. Down the track Spotify will use other sources as well as some record company data is incomplete, the company said.

Tidal introduced writer and publisher credits last November.

Spotify has tried to mend bridges with writers and publishers after being sued by them for millions of dollars for alleged non-proper payment.

Last year, in another initiative for songwriters, Spotify introduced Secret Genius which incorporated an ambassador program, global workshops, playlists, podcasts and an awards show.

For its latest initiative, Annika Goldman, Spotify’s director of music publishing operations, said, “The more we share information, the more opportunities we can help create for songwriters.

“This is just the beginning of making songwriter and producer credits more easily available to Spotify listeners, and we look forward to continually improving that information, in close collaboration with our music industry partners.”

It’s gone down well with writers and publishers.

Sony/ATV music publishing chairman and CEO Martin Bandier remarked, “When I won a Lifetime Service Award at the NMPA’s Centennial Annual Meeting last summer I called upon the streaming services to display the names of the songwriters who wrote the songs just as they clearly credit the artists who recorded them.

“With this announcement, Spotify has taken a first, important step to properly recognize the vital contribution that songwriters make to its service and should be applauded for it.

“Songwriters are the essential lifeblood of the music industry.

“Without their words and music there would be nothing for artists to record, no hit songs and no music to stream.”