Written by Icelandic artist Björk has been a vocal critic of music streaming platforms, particularly Spotify, expressing concerns about their impact on musicians’ livelihoods and the broader music industry. In a recent interview with Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter, she described Spotify as “probably the worst thing that has happened to musicians,” highlighting how streaming culture has transformed society and affected a generation of artists.
Reflecting on her own career, Björk acknowledged her fortunate position of not relying solely on touring for income, a luxury not afforded to many emerging musicians. She noted that younger artists often feel compelled to tour extensively due to the financial constraints imposed by streaming platforms. “The live part is, and always will be, a big part of what I do. But I’m lucky because I no longer have to raise money on touring, which younger musicians are often forced to do,” she said.
Björk’s criticism of Spotify is not new. In 2015, following the release of her album ‘Vulnicura’, she chose not to make the album available on streaming services. She explained her decision by emphasizing the respect she has for her craft and the extensive effort involved in creating an album. “To work on something for two or three years and then just, ‘Oh, here it is for free.’ It’s not about the money; it’s about respect. Respect for the craft and the amount of work you put into it,” she stated.
Björk’s stance underscores a broader debate within the music industry regarding the valuation of artistic work in the streaming era. Her comments invite reflection on how streaming platforms compensate artists and the long-term implications for the creation and sustainability of music.
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