Spotify has partnered with Procter & Gamble (P&G) to launch a new branded podcast series called Harmonize, focused on the impact of racial bias in the US and how music has served as a catalyst for change.
The four episodes, featuring Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award-winner (EGOT) John Legend and rapper, songwriter, and record executive Pusha T, are available today (November 14) exclusively on Spotify.
The podcast is hosted by communications consultant and writer Jamilah Lemieux and features music expert Cory Townes.
The Harmonize series focuses specifically on how Black music is celebrated around the world and will explore conversations with musicians, cultural commentators, and artists who share their stories about how bias has impacted their personal and professional lives, with a particular focus on the Black male experience in America.
According to the blog post announcing the new podcast, Harmonize also has plans to expand beyond the first season and will address bias related to gender, LGBTQ, identity, and more.
“I have huge respect for companies like Spotify and P&G that are creating spaces for artists like myself to have these conversations, which are long overdue.”
John Legend
“It is so important to have an open, honest dialogue around difficult topics like race, gender and bias,” said John Legend.
“I have huge respect for companies like Spotify and P&G that are creating spaces for artists like myself to have these conversations, which are long overdue.”
“Together with Spotify, we’re deepening this conversation, illustrating how race intersects music and culture and bringing together a variety of perspectives and experiences we believe will inspire people to take action to address these all too common instances of individual and institutional bias.”
Damon Jones, Procter & Gamble
Damon Jones, Vice President, Global Communications & Advocacy at Procter & Gamble said: “Our latest film, ‘The Look’ is designed to spark reflection and dialogue on the frank realities of racial bias, and the sometimes subtle ways it manifests itself in everyday situations for people of color.
“Together with Spotify, we’re deepening this conversation, illustrating how race intersects music and culture and bringing together a variety of perspectives and experiences we believe will inspire people to take action to address these all too common instances of individual and institutional bias.”
“We are proud to amplify the conversation that P&G has so thoughtfully sparked with the launch of Harmonize.”
Danielle Lee, Spotify
Danielle Lee, Global Vice President, Partner Solutions at Spotify, added: “We are proud to amplify the conversation that P&G has so thoughtfully sparked with the launch of Harmonize.
“Consumers expect brands to take a stand on issues they care about and contribute to society in a meaningful way. Our hope is that Harmonize will expand the conversation around bias in America in an effort to build empathy.”Music Business Worldwide
