Halsey performed at Spotify for Creators’ event as of late and reminded people in the audience never to collaborate with an ex-boyfriend, and even told Spotify to hang a plaque in her honor.
In a recent conversation, Halsey shared her thoughts on the impact of streaming, her musical journey, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. “I’ve been doing this for about 11 or 12 years now,” Halsey said, reflecting on her long-standing career. “I remember the first time I went to the Spotify office in Sweden. There were only about 30 people working there, and I was told that you could search up any song and get it. I remember thinking, ‘No way, I can’t.'”
She continued, laughing at her initial skepticism. “I thought it was a terrible business model, and I was so wrong. Thank God I was wrong! Spotify has truly been a monumental shift in the music industry—it democratized music discovery. For artists like me, that’s so important. We now have the ability to cross genres, to reach people on a global scale, and for fans to discover our music on their own terms. That kind of organic discovery has allowed me to get here and to thrive.”
In a candid moment, Halsey revealed that she was recently informed that two of her songs had reached significant streaming milestones—one of which is a track she doesn’t often talk about. “I was told today that I was going to receive two plaques for songs that recently crossed the billion mark,” she said with a laugh. “One of them is a song I’m really proud of. The other one, well, it’s a cautionary tale. It was a song I made with my ex. We all know how those go.”
She didn’t mince words, adding, “Spotify should take that plaque and put it in their hallway with a note that says, ‘If you’re thinking about making a song with your boyfriend, don’t!’ It might stream like crazy, but trust me, you won’t want that plaque hanging in your house.”
Halsey’s music, which spans across pop, rock, alternative, and hip-hop influences, has resonated with millions. But she emphasized that her success isn’t just about crossing genres; it’s about giving her fans the space to decide for themselves whether they want to connect with her music. “I grew up in a time when record companies decided what we listened to. Now, it’s up to the people,” she said. “I think that’s really incredible. I didn’t have to be forced into anyone’s idea of who I was supposed to be. I’ve always just wanted to create music that connects with people.”
The 28-year-old artist’s rise to stardom wasn’t overnight. Halsey was only 19 when her debut album Badlands dropped in 2015, a project that not only set the tone for her career but also garnered significant industry support. “There were so many people who championed that record, some who are still here today,” she said. “If it weren’t for that support, I wouldn’t be here talking about my fifth record.”
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In fact, her fifth studio album, If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power, was released on October 25th, 2021, and has continued to solidify her place in the music world. “It’s a really cool feeling to look back at all these moments,” Halsey shared. “I’ve learned so much, and now, my music is streaming like crazy. I never thought I’d see the day when one of my songs hit 3 billion streams.”
Halsey’s self-awareness and humor have always been central to her persona, allowing her to navigate the complexities of fame with a refreshing honesty. She also took a moment to reflect on the way the industry views her. “I’ve put out five albums and a kid before I was 28,” she said. “People sometimes look at me and think I’m 40, and I’m like, ‘No, I’m just not.’ I started working really young, but I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Despite the whirlwind of achievements, Halsey recognizes the importance of staying grounded. “Usually, by the time you’re not getting invited to things anymore, you’re not considered interesting,” she noted. “So I’m grateful to still be considered a part of the conversation. I’ll take that one home and keep it in my little pocket.”
Through all the ups and downs, Halsey remains committed to making music that speaks to her fans and continues to push boundaries. “I’m constantly learning,” she said. “Every day is a new opportunity to grow, and I’m just lucky that I’ve been able to do this for so long.”
