In 2009, I embarked on an entrepreneurial journey as a co-founder and product designer of Stereomood, a groundbreaking streaming service that curated music based on users’ moods. Over six extraordinary years, our team, originating in the Italian landscape unfamiliar with the digital era, grew to 15 core members, supported by external collaborators.
Founding Stereomood
Stereomood quickly emerged as a unique player in the music streaming arena. By 2011, we achieved the remarkable feat of attracting over 1 million unique users per month. Recognizing our potential, Italian investors fueled our growth with a substantial €700K investment, catapulting Stereomood into the limelight of the competitive music industry.
Innovation and recognition
Our platform has revolutionized the music discovery experience by utilizing a machine-learning algorithm to curate emotional playlists. Forbes captured the essence of Stereomood, noting, “If Pandora stands as the reigning brain of internet radio, new competitor Stereomood may be its heart.” The platform’s innovative approach garnered industry accolades, including being recognized as an Official Honoree in the music category at the Webby Awards 2011 and winning the RCS Digital Publishing Prize 2011 as the most innovative Italian startup in Digital Publishing.
The RCS award opened doors to global opportunities. Following this recognition, the Stereomood team relocated to San Francisco, participating in Mind the Bridge—an organization fostering innovation between startups and corporations. This experience not only expanded Stereomood’s horizons but also cultivated relationships with individuals who would later become integral collaborators.
Music discovery at its core
Stereomood’s strength lies in its extensive music database, aggregating over 60,000 songs into emotion-driven playlists. From ‘Happy’ and ‘Sunday Morning’ to ‘Night Drive,’ users explored a vast array of moods seamlessly. The platform encouraged user participation, allowing “Stereomooders” to submit their music and share personalized lists.
Mobile optimization and visual experience
Recognizing the importance of an optimized mobile experience, we ensured that Stereomood resonated with users on the go. Colors and images, being potent emotional influencers, became our primary touchpoints. Weekly background changes sourced from user contests on Flickr and collaborations with brands added a dynamic visual layer to enhance the emotional journey.
Impact and legacy
Stereomood transcended conventional music platforms, leaving an indelible mark on the intersection of music and emotions. Our success, particularly in a digitally transforming Italian landscape, underscores the platform’s cultural impact. Stereomood’s journey stands as a testament to entrepreneurial resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to shaping the digital music landscape.
