Godspeed You! Black Emperor Withdraws Music from Streaming Services
Overview of the Decision
In a bold move that has caught the attention of the music industry, Canadian post-rock band Godspeed You! Black Emperor has announced the withdrawal of their music from Spotify and nearly all other major streaming platforms. This decision aligns them with a growing trend among artists who are re-evaluating their presence on streaming services.
Streaming Availability
As of now, Godspeed You! Black Emperor’s entire catalog is absent from Spotify and Tidal. While their two albums released through Kranky—1998’s F# A# ∞ and 2000’s Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas to Heaven—remain accessible on Apple Music, a representative from Constellation Records has confirmed that these will also be removed soon. The label emphasized their commitment to artist control in a statement, saying, “Kranky has always granted artists control over how their music is presented and disseminated.”
Alternative Access to Music
Despite the withdrawal from major streaming services, fans can still purchase and stream Godspeed You! Black Emperor’s music via Bandcamp, ensuring that the group’s work remains available to their audience.
Context of the Withdrawal
This decision follows a recent trend among indie artists. In the past two months, notable bands such as Deerhoof, Xiu Xiu, and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard have also pulled their music from Spotify. The common thread among these groups is their objection to the military investments made by Spotify CEO Daniel Ek through his investment fund, Prima Materia. Since 2021, Prima Materia has been linked to investments in Helsing, a defense company that develops AI-based software for military applications.
Recent Releases and Activism
In line with their artistic and political stance, Godspeed You! Black Emperor released the album No Title As of 13 February 2024 28,340 Dead last year. This title reflects the reported Palestinian death toll during the ongoing conflict in Gaza, highlighting the band’s commitment to addressing pressing social issues through their music.
Conclusion
The withdrawal of Godspeed You! Black Emperor from streaming platforms is not just a business decision; it is a statement about artistic autonomy and social responsibility. As more artists reassess their relationships with streaming services, it raises important questions about the impact of corporate investments on the music they create and share with the world.
FAQs
Why did Godspeed You! Black Emperor remove their music from streaming services?
The band is protesting against the military investments made by Spotify CEO Daniel Ek and advocating for artist control over how their music is disseminated.
Where can I find Godspeed You! Black Emperor’s music now?
Their music is still available for purchase and streaming on Bandcamp.
Are other bands also pulling their music from Spotify?
Yes, bands like Deerhoof, Xiu Xiu, and King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard have recently withdrawn their music from Spotify for similar reasons.
What is Prima Materia?
Prima Materia is an investment fund established by Spotify CEO Daniel Ek, which has been linked to funding military technology companies.
What is the significance of the album No Title As of 13 February 2024 28,340 Dead?
The album’s title references the Palestinian death toll reported during the conflict in Gaza, showcasing the band’s engagement with current events and social issues.
