A growing chorus of critics argues that Spotify is not just underpaying artists, but is actively “flattening culture.” A new movement, crystallized by the “Death to Spotify” events in California, is fighting back against the platform’s algorithmic curation, which they claim turns music into bland, homogenized background noise. This uprising is a battle for the heart and soul of music discovery itself.
The critique, eloquently laid out in Liz Pelly’s book Mood Machine, is that Spotify has transformed listeners from active fans into “passive, uninspired consumers.” The platform’s reliance on playlists and features like “Discovery mode” allegedly rewards “bland, coffee-shop muzak” that fades into the background, rather than art that challenges, excites, or inspires. Artists and organizers argue this system stifles creativity and diversity.
In response, musicians and fans are seeking to “decentralize music discovery.” The goal is to break free from what they call an “algorithmically built comfort zone.” This involves a conscious effort to find and support music through other channels, such as independent radio stations like KEXP, local record labels, and platforms like Bandcamp, which prioritize artist-centric curation over opaque algorithms.
Artists are leading by example, demonstrating that it’s possible to thrive outside the algorithmic ecosystem. Songwriter Caroline Rose, for instance, chose to release her latest album only on vinyl and Bandcamp. She expressed a frustration shared by many: “I find it pretty lame that we put our heart and soul into something and then just put it online for free.” This sentiment reflects a desire to restore a sense of value and occasion to the act of listening.
This movement is a passionate plea for a more engaged and intentional relationship with art. As organizer Manasa Karthikeyan puts it, the aim is for people to “think a little bit harder” about their listening habits. It’s a rebellion against a future where our tastes are quietly shaped by corporate code, and a fight to keep music discovery human, surprising, and truly alive.