Massive Attack Boycotts Israeli Streams, Challenges Spotify Over Military Tech Investment
bristol, UK – British trip-hop pioneers Massive Attack have requested the removal of their music from all streaming services in Israel, citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The band simultaneously announced intentions to withdraw their catalog from Spotify globally, alleging the platform’s founder, Daniel Ek, invests heavily in companies developing military artificial intelligence and combat drones.
The group detailed their decision Thursday on Instagram, stating the action is part of the ”No Music for Genocide” movement, a coalition of over 400 artists and publishing houses advocating for a cultural boycott of Israel.
“We have sent an official request to download our music from all streaming services in israel to our publishing house,” the band wrote.
Massive Attack, formed in 1988, also expressed concern over Spotify’s financial impact on artists, adding that an “ethical and moral burden” now accompanies the existing economic strain. their debut album, Blue Lines, remains a landmark recording of the 1990s British music scene.
Spotify declined to comment when contacted by AFP.
The controversy centers on Daniel Ek’s chairmanship of Helsing, a company that develops military autonomous systems enhanced by artificial intelligence. Helsing recently denied reports that its drones have been deployed in conflict zones outside of Ukraine, according to information on its website.
The streaming giant has previously faced criticism and online boycott campaigns regarding artist compensation.