In a bold move, Studio Herrstroem, a renowned design studio, decided to take a different approach to branding for their client Spotify. Instead of following the latest trends, they delved deep into cultural research to create a unique and authentic identity for the music streaming giant. This approach not only set Spotify apart from its competitors but also resonated with its diverse user base. By immersing themselves in the cultural context of music and its impact on society, Studio Herrstroem was able to craft a brand image that was both meaningful and memorable. The studio’s research-led approach allowed them to tap into the emotional connections people have with music, creating a brand that felt more like a cultural movement than a corporate entity. As a result, Spotify’s branding evolved into a vibrant and dynamic visual language that reflected the diversity and creativity of its users. The new branding strategy also enabled Spotify to better connect with its audience, fostering a sense of community and shared passion for music. By prioritizing cultural research, Studio Herrstroem was able to create a brand that felt authentic, relevant, and inclusive. This approach also allowed the studio to move away from generic design trends, instead opting for a more nuanced and thoughtful design solution. The success of this approach has been evident in the positive response from Spotify’s users, who have praised the new branding for its creativity and originality. Furthermore, the cultural research approach has also inspired other designers and brands to rethink their own branding strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding the cultural context in which they operate. In an industry where trends are constantly changing, Studio Herrstroem’s commitment to cultural research has proven to be a game-changer, allowing Spotify to stay ahead of the curve and maintain its position as a leader in the music streaming market. The studio’s work on Spotify’s branding has also highlighted the value of collaboration between designers, researchers, and stakeholders in creating a brand that truly resonates with its audience. By working closely with Spotify’s team, Studio Herrstroem was able to gain a deep understanding of the company’s values and mission, which informed the development of the new branding strategy. The outcome of this collaboration was a brand that felt truly Spotify, reflecting the company’s passion for music and its commitment to innovation. In addition to its impact on Spotify’s branding, Studio Herrstroem’s cultural research approach has also contributed to a broader conversation about the role of design in shaping cultural narratives. As designers, Studio Herrstroem’s work serves as a reminder of the importance of considering the cultural context in which we operate, and the need to create designs that are thoughtful, nuanced, and respectful of diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the success of Studio Herrstroem’s cultural research approach has demonstrated the value of taking a more thoughtful and considered approach to branding, one that prioritizes depth and meaning over superficial trends and fads. By doing so, the studio has not only created a stunning brand identity for Spotify but has also raised the bar for the design industry as a whole, inspiring a new generation of designers to think more critically and creatively about the role of branding in shaping cultural narratives.