Why Deerhoof just yanked their music from Spotify

Deerhoof firmly objected to Daniel Ek’s €600–700 million investment in Helsing, a military AI firm. The band refused to let their art support algorithms that contribute to warfare. As a result, they announced plans to remove their entire catalog from Spotify immediately. Since streaming barely pays—each member reportedly earned only around $1,000 annually from the platform—the loss felt negligible, but the moral stand felt urgent.

Greg Saunier, the group’s drummer, described the decision as a swift, emotional reaction. The band prioritized their principles over profit, choosing to disconnect from a company whose leadership openly backed AI weapons development. Their action wasn’t just about Spotify—it was a rejection of the broader tech-military complex.

Backing their stance, Joyful Noise Recordings—Deerhoof’s label—approved the removal and supported the band’s message. Although their music remained live at the time of announcement, both parties pledged to complete the removal as soon as possible. The gesture wasn’t symbolic—it marked a clear break from a platform they now view as incompatible with their values.

Deerhoof encouraged fans to seek their music through platforms like Bandcamp or by purchasing physical releases. In a pointed message, they described Spotify as a “data-mining scam masquerading as a music company,” and hinted that more artists may follow suit. This move places Deerhoof at the heart of a growing conversation about ethics in digital music—and highlights the power artists still hold when they choose integrity over convenience.