Artists Abandon Spotify Over Controversial Military Investment

Musicians are leaving Spotify in protest after the platform’s founder, Daniel Ek, invested €700 million in a military artificial intelligence company. Notable bands like Massive Attack, Deerhoof, and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard have withdrawn their catalogs, stating they cannot support “lethal technologies” used in global conflicts, including in Gaza.

In a significant move, Massive Attack became the first major band to remove its music from Spotify. Their decision was prompted by Ek’s substantial investment in Helsing, a military AI firm that develops technology for use in combat aircraft. This company analyzes data from battlefields, aiding in real-time decision-making, and also manufactures military drones. “We cannot finance lethal technologies,” the band stated, emphasizing their long-standing anti-war stance.

Greg Sonier, the vocalist of Deerhoof, expressed his discontent with Spotify’s low payouts to artists, estimated at around $3 per 1,000 streams. Additionally, he criticized Spotify’s shift towards AI and podcasts, which favor controversial figures like Joe Rogan, who have secured lucrative contracts while musicians struggle.

Sonier elaborated on the ethical implications of their music contributing to warfare. “Each time someone listens to our music on Spotify, does that mean money is spent to make the horrors we see in Gaza more frequent and profitable?” he questioned. Reflecting on their decision, he noted, “It didn’t take long for us as a band to decide that if Daniel Ek invests in this kind of artificial intelligence, we should leave Spotify.”

The response from Spotify has been defensive. The platform insists it will use military technology “only” in Ukraine and for the benefit of democratic nations. This justification has not pacified the growing wave of artists leaving the service. Following Deerhoof’s announcement, Xiu Xiu also declared plans to remove their music, labeling Spotify as a “garbage pit” that fuels violence.

The actions of Ek have drawn criticism from the musicians’ union, which stated that he views Spotify and the wealth it generates from artists merely as a means to increase his own fortune. This ongoing exodus may not significantly impact Spotify’s dominance in the music industry, as the company reported quarterly revenues of $4.8 billion. However, it has certainly alienated a segment of its artist base and younger fans who are increasingly vocal against war and violence.

Ek’s recent decisions have also sparked outrage beyond the music community. He previously faced backlash for Spotify’s reported $150 million cut in royalties, which made it easier for artists to leave due to inadequate compensation. Furthermore, Spotify contributed $150,000 to former President Donald Trump‘s campaign and has run recruitment ads for ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), further angering artists and fans alike.

As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this movement will influence the future of music streaming and the relationships between artists and platforms that prioritize profit over ethical considerations.