Canadian Artists See Increase in Spotify Streams Following Song Releases
The TV show “Heated Rivalry” has caused a surge in popularity for Canadian artists featured in the series. The Canadian TV series, created by Jacob Tierney and produced by Bell Media’s Crave streamer, has gained international success and acclaim, much like the hit show “Schitt’s Creek.” With its finale scheduled for December 26, “Heated Rivalry” has become one of the standout series of 2025. One notable episode, Episode 5, prominently features the Montreal band Wolf Parade and their song “I’ll Believe In Anything” from 2005. Following its appearance in the show, the song has experienced a massive 2,650% increase in global streams on Spotify.
Aside from Wolf Parade, other Canadian artists have also seen a surge in popularity due to their music appearing in “Heated Rivalry.” Feist’s 2007 track “My Moon My Man” has seen a notable resurgence with a 1,500% increase in streams. The series, partially set in Montreal, has showcased several Francophone artists from Quebec, leading to a substantial increase in streams and playlist adds for acts like Philippe B, Alfa Rococo, and more. Dumas’ “Une journée parfaite” experienced a significant uptick of over 1,500% in streaming numbers after its feature in the first episode of the show.
Moreover, the popularity of the TV series has had a ripple effect on other media as well. The original books that inspired “Heated Rivalry,” penned by author Rachel Reid in her Game Changers series, have seen a surge in demand with physical copies being sold out. This surge in interest has also extended to the audiobook versions of Reid’s catalogue, resulting in a 1,500% increase in global listening since the show’s debut.
The impact of “Heated Rivalry” on Canadian music and literature showcases the power of media to elevate and highlight diverse artists and creators. The global success of the series has not only brought newfound attention to Canadian talents but has also emphasized the importance of representation and exposure in the entertainment industry. As more viewers and listeners discover the works of these Canadian artists through the show, it creates a symbiotic relationship between media and art, driving mutual growth and recognition. The success of “Heated Rivalry” serves as a testament to the impact that well-crafted storytelling and thoughtful curation can have on promoting and celebrating cultural diversity in the creative landscape.