3203: The Creator of Spotify Playlists on the Future of Music and Fan Engagement

How are fan relationships reshaping the music industry and beyond? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Nick Holmstén, the visionary behind Spotify Playlists and former Global Head of Music at Spotify, to explore how fandom is becoming the driving force behind brand and artist success.

Nick shares his journey from building Tunigo—acquired by Spotify to leading TSX Entertainment in Times Square and now focusing on the future of artist-fan connections. With streaming, social media, and emerging technologies shifting the power dynamic, fans are no longer passive listeners or consumers. They’re shaping culture, promoting artists, and setting new industry trends.

We discuss how the rise of independent artists and direct-to-fan platforms is changing music distribution, why brands should rethink their audiences as communities rather than customers, and how blockchain could introduce new transparency and reward systems for engagement.

Nick also shares insights from his new book, Fan-Powered Futures, which explores how companies and creators can thrive in this new landscape.

With more industries embracing engagement-driven models, what lessons can businesses take from the evolution of the music industry? And how will AI, Web3, and digital innovation further transform entertainment? Tune in to hear Nick’s thoughts on what’s next for artists, brands, and fan-powered economies.