Spotify Canvas: Small Loop, Big Vibe

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Spotify Canvas is that looping visual you see on the Now Playing screen in the Spotify mobile app. It replaces your static album art with a 3–8 second vertical video that plays silently while your song streams. It’s a simple upgrade with a big impact. Kind of like a moving mood board for your music.

Why Use a Canvas?

• Visual identity: It’s another touchpoint for your aesthetic. A chance to expand on your album or single artwork with motion.

• Increased engagement: Spotify’s own data shows that Canvas can boost streams, saves, shares, and profile visits.

• More story, less time: Even 3 seconds can say a lot—emotion, energy, era, vibe.

• Algorithm love: More interactions (likes, saves, shares) mean more signals to the algorithm that your song is worth showing off.

Technical Specs (No Stress)

Here’s what you need to know to get it right:

• Length: 3–8 seconds

• Size: 9:16 aspect ratio (vertical)

• Resolution: At least 720px tall, but aim for 1080x1920

• File format: MP4 (no audio) or JPG loop

• No text or logos: Keep it clean—Spotify overlays your song title and artist name automatically

Tips for Creating a Great Canvas

• Design with the loop in mind. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it should feel intentional. Smooth motion, visual rhythm, or a clever jump cut can go a long way.

• Match the vibe of the track. Gritty punk banger? Go chaotic. Slow, dreamy ballad? Go slow-mo or ambient. Let the energy of the song drive the visuals.

• Keep it clear. Viewers are on their phones. high contrast and simple motion reads best on small screens.

• Test it out. Always preview it in context. Does it feel weirdly cropped? Does the loop glitch? Check it on the mobile Spotify for Artists app before publishing.

• Reuse with purpose. Pull clips from your music video, behind-the-scenes footage, or old tour footage. Just crop vertically and rethink the pacing.

• Minimal is powerful. Sometimes a single candle flicker, swaying curtain, or head turn can be more striking than a fast-cut montage.

Timing & Updates

• Upload before release: You can (and should) add your Canvas before your track goes live on Spotify. It’s best to have it in place so listeners see it on day one.

• Last-minute friendly: If you’re running close to release day, don’t stress. You can upload your Canvas right up until the moment your song drops.

• Change it anytime: Canvases aren’t permanent. You can update them anytime, as often as you want. Feel like swapping in new visuals a month after release? Go for it.

Use It Strategically

Canvas isn’t just for the vibes—it can support your bigger picture too:

• Tease something. Show a moment from the upcoming music video or live performance.

• Build recognition. Match your Canvas to visuals from your press shots, merch, or cover art.

• Show personality. Use humour, charm, weirdness. It’s your moment to connect visually while someone’s already listening.

How to Upload Your Canvas(es)

The easiest way to upload your Canvases is through the Spotify for Artists mobile app. This also lets you preview them on your phone to make sure everything looks great in the UI.

Steps:

1. Open the Spotify for Artists app (mobile only)

2. Tap the Video & Visuals icon (far right on the bottom menu – rectangle with a play button)

3. Select the Canvas tab

4. To edit a Canvas: tap the song thumbnail, then hit Edit in the top-right corner

5. To add a new Canvas: tap + Add Canvas, then choose the song you want to attach it to

You can upload, remove, or update Canvases any time—even after your track is released.

Final Thought: It’s Not That Deep (But It Is That Useful)

You don’t need a whole production budget to make a great Canvas. Some of the best ones are shot on phones or made with found footage. It’s about intention and feel, not polish.

Need help making one? Ask your videographer or editor for a vertical crop from an existing shoot, or experiment in CapCut or Premiere yourself. You’ve already got the tools. Canvas is just one more way to tell your story.