As the latest platforms to launch its own version of Stories, Genius might seem an unlikely contender. But, YouTube has got its back.

Smart song

Genius is a giant database of pop song words that integrates relevant facts and composer comments too.

These trivial sidebars give Genius some cred for establishing Songs Stories: a Snapchat/Instagram inspired mode of engagement.

However, Genius is a text-based venture about an audio medium. How can it make Stories work?

Made by the media

YouTube are providing the backing track to make Song Stories happen.

More than a music video embed, this is an actual collaboration.

Song Stories uses YouTube’s vast catalogue of content to interactively augment Genius’ patented connections between published lyrics, artist intentions and pop-cultural references.

The result is described by YouTube’s Global Head of Music as ‘a more immersive way to explore music.’

Music industry foothold

Google/YouTube seems increasingly willing to work with smaller partners for niche outcomes. Song Stories also exemplifies their continued investment in positioning competitively for online music markets.

Song Stories is available on desktop browsers, and for both Android and iOS apps. Check out one the first official Song Stories about Joy Division's Love Will Tear Us Apart.

Is this niche partnering strategy something that will likely bring you closer to Google, or would they be better off focussed on their own ventures?

Copy Transmission is a Melbourne-based agency :: Better Brands. Loud & Clear.