Apple’s Shazam, the music identification app used over 100 billion times since its 2002 launch, is looking ahead to predict the artists and genres that will dominate 2025. With the newly launched “Shazam Fast Forward 2025” campaign, the platform aims to showcase rising stars and emerging trends based on its extensive music data.
Data-Driven Predictions for New Artists
Shazam’s predictions stem from its vast database of music fingerprints and user searches. By analyzing how often users identify specific tracks and artists, the app provides insights into emerging talent. The “Shazam Fast Forward 2025” initiative focuses on five genres: dance, Latin, country/rock, pop, and Hip-Hop/R&B. Each day this week, Shazam unveils 10 new artists, culminating in a list of 50 rising stars.
For instance, artists like Also Astir, Joe Hunt, and TRNACRIA are among the early recommendations. While Shazam doesn’t claim these will be the most popular artists globally, its track record is strong. In 2023, 80% of its predicted artists reached Apple Music’s Top 100.
Leveraging Music Discovery
Shazam’s ability to predict trends relies on its “digital fingerprinting” technology, which matches song attributes like tempo and melody to a vast music database. This technology, paired with billions of user queries, enables Shazam to identify potential breakout stars.
Since Apple acquired Shazam in 2017, the app has become more than a song identification tool. Its integration with Apple Music enhances music discovery, connecting users with new artists and curating personalized playlists.
What’s Next for Shazam
Shazam’s predictions highlight its growing role in shaping the music industry. By spotlighting emerging artists, the app not only identifies talent but also helps propel these musicians into mainstream success. The “Shazam Fast Forward 2025” list doubles the selection of Apple Music’s typical weekly “New Music Mix,” offering more opportunities for discovery.
As 2025 unfolds, Shazam’s data-driven insights could redefine how listeners discover and connect with new music, keeping it at the forefront of innovation in the music streaming world.