Spotify signs elite podcast contract with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle

In case you’re wanting more Royal Family content after season 4 of The Crown, Spotify will help. Today, the streaming service reported an exclusive podcast deal with The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The royal couple will host and create various podcasts beginning in 2021. While you’ll need to sit tight for a complete series, the main thing on the plan will make a big appearance this month: a holiday special co-produced by Archewell Audio, the Duke and Duchess’ new audio production organization, and Spotify-owned podcast production studio Gimlet.

“What we love about podcasting is that it reminds all of us to take a moment and to really listen, to connect to one another without distraction,” The Duke and Duchess of Sussex said in a joint statement. “With the challenges of 2020, there has never been a more important time to do so, because when we hear each other, and hear each other’s stories, we are reminded of how interconnected we all are.” The royal couple signed a multiyear deal with Netflix in September with the aim of “creating content that informs but also gives hope.”

While Spotify didn’t uncover any financial details, it indicated that the agreement is with Archewell Audio. Nonetheless, Spotify portrayed the upcoming content as “programming that uplifts and entertains audiences around the world.” And anybody will have the option to tune in since all podcasts on the platform, including Spotify’s special features, are accessible to free clients.

The present declaration is the most recent in a constant barrage of podcast deals for Spotify. The streaming service is apparently including new partners on a weekly basis. Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan join a record of special features that incorporates the Obamas (and their Higher Ground production organization), Joe Rogan and others. Additionally, Spotify has gained full production organizations and news sources, including The Ringer, Gimlet and Parcast.