Rock and Metal Bands Leave Spotify: A Growing Movement in 2025
In 2025, the music streaming landscape experienced a significant shake-up as at least nine rock and metal bands opted to remove their music from Spotify. This trend, particularly noticeable in the past six months, raises questions about the implications of artist compensation and ethical concerns surrounding the platform.
Reasons Behind the Exodus
The departure of these artists is fueled by multiple factors. Chief among them are concerns regarding Spotify’s compensation model for artists. Additionally, the spotlight has turned to Spotify’s co-founder and CEO Daniel Ek, whose other venture, Prima Materia, has garnered attention for securing substantial investments to develop AI drone technology for military applications. The platform has also faced backlash for its recruitment advertisements for I.C.E., a controversial U.S. agency embroiled in lawsuits for unlawful actions.
Overview of Bands That Left Spotify
Here’s a closer look at the rock and metal bands that have chosen to part ways with Spotify and where fans can continue to stream their music.
Deerhoof
Streaming Alternatives: Amazon Music, Apple Music, Bandcamp, Tidal
Statement: Deerhoof announced their exit in June, describing it as “a pretty easy decision.” The band cited concerns over Ek’s investment in defense technology through Prima Materia as a driving factor.
Godspeed You! Black Emperor
Streaming Alternatives: Bandcamp
Statement: The Canadian band remains silent on their departure, which occurred in August. Currently, Bandcamp is the only platform where fans can find their music.
Hotline TNT
Streaming Alternatives: Amazon Music, Apple Music, Bandcamp, Tidal
Statement: Vocalist Will Anderson expressed the band’s discontent with Spotify’s values in August, although they did not elaborate on specifics.
King Gizzard and The Lizard Wizard
Streaming Alternatives: Amazon Music, Apple Music, Bandcamp, Tidal
Statement: Following their exit in July, member Stu Mackenzie emphasized the difficult decision to remove their music, linking it to Ek’s connections with AI weaponry.
My Bloody Valentine
Streaming Alternatives: Amazon Music, Apple Music, Tidal
Statement: The band selectively removed their iconic albums, leaving their 2013 release available on Spotify. They have not publicly commented on the removals.
Saetia
Streaming Alternatives: Amazon Music, Apple Music, Bandcamp, Tidal
Statement: The band provided an extensive rationale for their October exit, criticizing Spotify for its support of I.C.E. and low artist compensation.
Swing Kids
Streaming Alternatives: Amazon Music, Apple Music, Bandcamp, Tidal
Statement: The post-hardcore band, having reunited in 2025, stated that staying on Spotify contradicted their values, expressing concern over the platform’s affiliations.
Xiu Xiu
Streaming Alternatives: Amazon Music, Apple Music, Bandcamp, Tidal
Statement: In July, Xiu Xiu described Spotify as a “garbage hole violent armageddon portal,” specifically criticizing its ties to AI weaponry.
Young Widows
Streaming Alternatives: Amazon Music, Apple Music, Bandcamp, Tidal
Statement: The band cited Ek’s investments in military technology as a critical reason for their September departure, urging fans to support artists directly instead of through streaming platforms.
Conclusion
The exodus of these bands from Spotify reflects a growing concern among artists regarding ethical practices in the music streaming industry. With many musicians prioritizing their values over platform convenience, the conversation surrounding artist compensation and corporate ethics is likely to continue. As fans, it’s essential to consider how our streaming choices impact the artists we love.
FAQs
Why are so many bands leaving Spotify in 2025?
Many bands are leaving due to concerns over artist compensation, ethical considerations regarding corporate affiliations, and the personal values of the artists.
Where can I find the music of these bands now?
Most of the bands have shifted their music to platforms like Amazon Music, Apple Music, Bandcamp, and Tidal, ensuring that fans can still access their work.
What specific issues have been raised about Spotify?
Concerns include low compensation rates for artists, Spotify’s support of controversial agencies like I.C.E., and CEO Daniel Ek’s investments in military technology.
Are there any bands that have not commented on their departure?
Yes, Godspeed You! Black Emperor has not made any formal statement regarding their removal from Spotify.
