Massive Attack have removed their catalogue from Spotify in protest at founder Daniel Ek’s €600m (£520m) investment in the military AI company Helsing. The band cited the “moral and ethical burden” of revenue from their music ultimately funding lethal technologies, including AI-integrated drones and fighter aircraft systems.
The announcement coincides with the band joining the No Music for Genocide initiative, in which over 400 artists and labels are blocking their music from streaming services in Israel. Massive Attack emphasized that their Spotify action is separate, targeting Ek’s investment rather than the wider campaign.
In a statement, the band referenced historic artist action during apartheid in South Africa and said the current economic burden on musicians is now compounded by moral responsibility. “Enough is more than enough. Another way is possible,” they said.
Spotify said the company and Helsing are “totally separate” and that Helsing’s technology is deployed only in Europe for defense against Russian aggression in Ukraine. Helsing denied involvement in any other conflict zones.
Massive Attack joins other acts including King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, Hotline TNT, Deerhoof, and Wu Lyf in withdrawing their music from Spotify over the investment. The band highlighted their wider advocacy for Palestinian artists and participation in a syndicate protecting musicians from censorship and legal threats.
