Thala is Spotify GSA’s EQUAL Artist of the Month
Spotify has announced Thala as its EQUAL GSA artist for February 2025, highlighting her growing influence in the indie music scene. As part of this initiative, she will represent female artists across Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, gaining increased visibility through curated playlists and dedicated promotional content on the platform.
EQUAL is a global program championing women and non-binary creators in the music industry, and within this framework, Women at Full Volume serves as a key focus of the EQUAL hub, amplifying women’s voices through education, inspiration, and networking opportunities.
A Rising Voice in Indie Rock
Thala’s musical journey began in 2019, when she performed at open mics and on the streets of Berlin. In just a few years, she has taken her deeply introspective indie rock sound from small local venues to international stages, including SXSW. Her music—often compared to artists like boygenius, Snail Mail, and Slowdive—blends nostalgic 90s aesthetics with modern indie sensibilities.
Her last EP twotwentytwo had received critical acclaim, with The Line of Best Fit praising her songwriting: “Her lyrics are melancholy but beautifully drawn, recalling the emotional intensity of Mazzy Star or Slowdive.”
Her sophomore album, Avalanche, due February 14th via Fire Records, marks an evolution in her artistry. With influences ranging from The Cure to Sharon Van Etten, the album navigates self-discovery, heartache, and resilience through lush instrumentals and poignant lyrics. Tracks like ‘1st of the year’ and ‘spit it out’ showcase her ability to craft emotionally charged, expansive soundscapes that resonate deeply with listeners.
Thala’s Message: Women at Full Volume
On her Instagram, Thala expressed gratitude for being named the EQUAL GSA Ambassador, while also emphasizing the need for greater representation of women in music:
"I cannot say this enough: we need to see more women thrive. We need to push each other. We need to let go of internalized misogyny. We need to stand up for each other in a world where others rarely do! We need to celebrate each other's wins!!! So honored to be this month’s Spotify EQUAL GSA Ambassador!"
To amplify women’s voices, Spotify EQUAL asked Thala to write a letter to herself, to encourage herself and send a message to the younger generation of female artists.
Spotify’s EQUAL program recognizes the existing barriers for women in the industry and aims to offer more visibility and recognition to female and non-binary artists. By featuring Thala in its curated EQUAL GSA playlist, Spotify helps introduce her music to a wider audience, fostering a more inclusive and equitable industry.
As Thala carves out her place in the indie music landscape with her second album Avalanche, her recognition as Spotify’s EQUAL Artist of the Month not only celebrates her artistry but also reinforces the importance of championing underrepresented voices in the industry.