Come the end of November, one can expect their favorite social media platforms to explode with screenshots of friends, family, and celebrities’ Spotify Wrapped. Although the Wrapped’s release is eagerly anticipated every year, over the past few years there have been frequent debates as to whether or not Spotify Wrapped is an accurate representation of an individual’s music taste. The results are compiled according to in-app statistics; however, many feel that they often are full of surprises that seem hard to believe or are skewed by the random nursery rhyme played for a younger sibling.

The popular tradition of displaying a users’ personalized listening statistics began in 2015 with a “Year in Music.” The original format simply included one’s most played songs and how many hours of music they listened to throughout the course of the year. After an unsuccessful launch, the tradition was upgraded into an eye-catching graphic that included a variety of new features that took off in 2017. 

Those who listened to at least five different artists and 30 different tracks woke up on Nov. 30 to a colorful carousel reflecting their year of listening. In addition to users’ favorite insights, Spotify debuted Your Listening Personality and Audio Day, as well as offered thank you messages from a wider selection of artists to their top listeners. The event was further celebrated with personalized Snapchat features, Bitmoji apparel, and GIFs.

Sophomore and veteran Spotify user Ria Siddappa exemplified this concern and was surprised by her Spotify Wrapped results this year. Siddappa shared, “I mainly just listen to Taylor Swift so

I was very surprised when none of her songs were in my top songs.” Although somewhat confused, she claimed, “I think Spotify Wrapped is just a cool conclusion to what you listen to,” and does not believe that the frustration of some should lead Spotify to bring the tradition to an end.

Julie Chesley also got a surprise when she took her first look at her Spotify Wrapped. Chesley’s granddaughter, Margot, enjoys listening to the children’s song “Sneaky Snake” on repeat, and as a result this was ranked as Chesley’s most listened to song, obviously not an accurate depiction of the kind of music she enjoys.

Music enthusiast junior Braden Bassett firmly believed that Spotify Wrapped is a simple compilation of statistics and is an accurate indicator of music taste. He passionately claimed, “You listen to the music; you can’t be mad. You chose what you listen to.” Essentially, in Bassett’s eyes those who are upset with their year-long analysis have no one to blame but themselves.

The drama caused by Spotify Wrapped’s release every year does nothing but generate further publicity for the tradition. Each year, it becomes more elaborate and reaches a wider audience meaning that Spotify Wrapped will not be going anywhere anytime soon.