As the year draws to a close, Spotify has once again unleashed its annual Wrapped campaign, offering users a deep dive into their personal audio history. This year, however, a novel feature is prompting particular intrigue and self-reflection: the 'listening age' tool.
What Is Your Spotify Listening Age?
The new algorithm analyses a subscriber's played tracks, artists, and genres throughout the year. It then compares these patterns to the typical listening habits of different age groups across the Spotify platform. The result is a personalised 'listening age' that may surprise you – you could be 25 with the musical soul of a 60-year-old classic rock enthusiast, or vice versa.
The Guardian is now inviting readers to share their experiences with this new metric and their broader music journey. How has your taste changed over time? Does your 'listening age' feel accurate, or is it wildly off the mark?
Share Your Musical Journey With The Guardian
The newspaper is conducting a survey to gather stories from music lovers about their evolving habits. They are keen to hear from individuals who are 18 years of age or over, and contributions can be made completely anonymously if desired.
Responses are secured via an encrypted form accessible only to The Guardian. The publication states it will use the data solely for this feature and will delete any personal information when it is no longer required.
Why Our Music Taste Evolves
Our relationship with music is rarely static. It can be shaped by life events, new friendships, cultural moments, or simply the algorithms that guide our streaming. This year's Spotify Wrapped, with its 'listening age' insight, provides a unique snapshot of that personal evolution, encouraging users to think about not just what they've played, but what it says about them.
Whether your Wrapped revealed a year of nostalgic throwbacks, cutting-edge discoveries, or an eclectic mix that defies categorisation, The Guardian wants to hear about it. Your story contributes to a broader picture of how the nation listens in the digital age.
