Link: Deerhoof did not want its music ‘funding AI battle tech’ — so it ditched Spotify

Indie rock band Deerhoof announced their decision to remove their music from Spotify, reacting to the platform's founder Daniel Ek investing in a defense group. The band has been discontent with Spotify’s payment practices and disapproved of Ek using his Spotify profits to fund AI technology for military use.

Greg Saunier, the drummer for Deerhoof, highlighted that the band’s income from Spotify was minimal, reinforcing their decision. The ethical stance against contributing to AI warfare technology was pivotal in their swift decision to leave the platform.

The band hopes their action spurs a broader movement against music streaming platforms that underpay artists and engage ethically questionable investments. Deerhoof has been critical of Ek for exploiting artist revenues for controversial ventures.

Despite their stand against Spotify, the band remains active on Instagram, another platform developing AI for military use, illustrating the complex decisions artists face in the digital age.

Deerhoof savors the idea of platforms like Spotify and Instagram becoming unfashionable, driven by artists and users pushing back against their practices. They view this potential shift as a way to realign the digital music landscape more ethically and sustainably.

The band's latest album is available off Spotify, ensuring listeners have alternative ways to access their music without supporting the contentious business model they oppose. #

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Yoooo, this is a quick note on a link that made me go, WTF? Find all past links here.