Musicians flee Spotify over CEO's AI military drone investments - Is It A Wise Move?

Several musicians are pulling their catalogs from Spotify in response to CEO Daniel Ek’s significant investment—totaling over €600 million—in Helsing, a German company specializing in AI defense technology and military drones.

The decision has ignited discussions throughout the music industry, raising questions not only about business ethics but also about personal freedom and the obligations of high-profile leaders in a global marketplace.

Daniel Ek, source: Daniel Ek's X account

For many artists, the move is based on a principled stance. Groups like King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, Deerhoof, and others have said they do not want the proceeds from their music—already a fraction of a cent per stream—used to help bankroll the advancement of military AI technology. Their departures from the platform are as much a protest against Spotify’s controversial royalty model as they are a response to Ek's personal investment choices.

Yet, Ek’s perspective is notably different. He has underscored that his support for Helsing comes not from a pursuit of profit at any cost, but from a belief that Europe’s democratic nations need robust, ethical defense capabilities in an increasingly complex world. According to Ek, Helsing only supplies allied governments and acts under strict ethical oversight, “empowering Europe’s technological sovereignty” in the face of mounting global tensions. For Ek, the investments represent not an appetite for conflict but an investment in defense and, by his measure, stability.

Is it a wise move for musicians to leave? 

For artists, the move comes at a price: Spotify remains a dominant force in music distribution, and artists forfeit access to its vast, global audience by leaving. For independent acts, it is an even steeper gamble.

Some might say it's the artists' freedom to leave Spotify; however, Ek also has the right to invest his wealth as he sees fit—whether in defense, technology, or the arts.  Moreover, no matter which country one lives in, a strong defense system is ultimately beneficial to the citizens, and the artists' move look more like angry little brats.

The exodus from Spotify is unlikely to shake the platform’s financial foundations, and you can get Spotify Premium Individual: 1-Year Subscription Account for $49 right now instead of $99 regular price, spots are limited!