It’s official, users can likely expect an “I’m feeling lucky” category on Songza, further proving that there isn’t a secret that can be completely kept within the internet age. Google confirmed rumors yesterday that it had acquired the playlist music streaming service Songza for more than $39 million, continuing a recent trend of industry juggernauts acquiring music enterprises.
For those bottom of the rock dwellers out there who’ve never heard of the app, the popular curation service has generated a following for expertly setting up playlists for users, designed around specific moods, days, weather, events and geographical locations. Example playlists have included “Laid-Back Pool Party” for those moments of mellow relaxation, or “Sparkle & Shine” which somehow turns the art of cleaning into a song and dance affair. It has all been made possible by the 50 experts that Songza employs who regularly prepare these playlists using different variables.
Google’s main motivation for acquiring the app will be to pair it up with its Google Play Music All Access service to give subscribers far more options, further enhancing the radio function. It’s all about expansion for Google. After all, it’s important to note the closeness of the deal to Apple’s own acquisition of Beats Electronics, another popular music service in both the hardware and software sectors. The purchase also doesn’t seem to have been a hard decision for Google as the streaming service has been the fastest growing of its kind despite not being near Spotify’s 10-million subscribers mark.
“Over the coming months, we’ll explore ways to bring what you love about Songza to Google Play Music,” a Google official said in a statement announcing the deal. “We’ll also look for opportunities to bring their great work to the music experience on YouTube and other Google products.”
As a response to the purchase, Songza has said that there are no plans for immediate changes to the app except for making it faster, smarter and more fun to use.
Songza launched in 2010 with the name Songza Sets, which was built into the Amie Street MP3 store. Amazon later bought Amie Street and focused its attention on Songza.
Words By. Matthew Anness
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