What’s next? Limited song plays per month?
Spotify has introduced a monthly limit on viewing song lyrics for free users. As a result, users now need a premium subscription to access full lyrics of more than five songs per month.
This strategy seems to be part of Spotify’s effort to encourage free users to upgrade to paid subscriptions by limiting access to popular features.
Lyrics Now a Premium Feature
In September 2023, Spotify began testing a restriction on lyric viewing for free users in select markets.
Back then, CJ Stanley, Spotify’s co-head of global communications, explained that this change aimed to refine the user experience.
While he said the test may not be permanent, this has now seemingly been officially implemented.
Many users have reported receiving notifications prompting them to upgrade their plans to access lyrics.
The new limit lets users view lyrics for up to five songs per month.
After reaching this cap, notifications will appear under the song that is currently playing. These inform users they’ve hit their monthly cap while encouraging them to “Enjoy lyrics on Spotify Premium.”
Community Reaction
The change has been met with significant pushback from the Spotify community, particularly on online forums.
The decision also raised accessibility concerns.
A Redditor explained that lyrics are not a luxury but a necessity for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Alternatives and Potential Shift to Other Services
Some users suggest this move is part of Spotify’s strategy to increase earnings by converting free users to its paid subscription plan.
In response, the community is exploring alternatives for accessing song lyrics, the simplest being to search for the lyrics on Google.
Other users have recommended using apps like Genius and Musixmatch as substitutes.
A few have also suggested switching to other services like YouTube Music and Apple Music, which still offer lyrics for free.