Sylvan Esso Announces Departure from Spotify with New Single Release

Indie-pop duo Sylvan Esso has just unveiled their latest single, “WDID,” alongside a significant announcement regarding their music distribution. Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn, the duo behind the project, are officially withdrawing their music from Spotify, launching it through their newly established label, Psychic Hotline.

A Stand Against Controversial Funding

In their public statement, Meath and Sanborn expressed concerns over Spotify’s ties to entities that they believe fund military operations. They stated their intention to sever ties with “a store that, in addition to all its other glaring flaws, directly funds war machines.” This marks a conscious move for the artists as they navigate the complexities of their music’s distribution. They emphasized the need to align their artistic output with their ethical beliefs.

"As we prepare to release new music, we have to decide what we want to be a part of and what we don’t," they explained, highlighting the importance of making choices that reflect their values. Their new single will be part of a forthcoming release on 12" vinyl, available on January 9, and will be backed by a B-side titled “Keep On.”

The Ripple Effect in the Music Industry

Sylvan Esso’s departure comes as part of a growing trend among artists reconsidering their relationship with Spotify. This wave of exits started in June with Deerhoof, supported by their label Joyful Noise, and has since included artists like Hotline TNT, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, and Xiu Xiu. The common thread among these artists is discontent with Spotify, particularly due to the platform’s founder, Daniel Ek, who has faced scrutiny for his investment in the weapons contractor Helsing through his venture capital firm, Prima Materia.

In a notable development coinciding with these withdrawals, Spotify announced that Ek would transition from his role as chief executive officer to that of executive chair, raising questions about the future direction of the company.

Past and Future Projects

Sylvan Esso’s last studio album, No Rules Sandy, was released in 2022 through Loma Vista. The duo’s decision to launch their label, Psychic Hotline, signifies a shift towards greater autonomy in how they manage and distribute their music, aiming for a model that aligns more closely with their artistic and ethical standards.

Conclusion

Sylvan Esso’s move away from Spotify underscores a growing awareness among artists regarding the implications of their distribution choices. By prioritizing their values over conventional business practices, they are setting a precedent for others in the industry. As more artists begin to evaluate the platforms they work with, this could signal a potential change in how music is released and consumed, fostering a more ethically conscious music ecosystem. The significance of these artists’ actions cannot be understated, as they may inspire others to reassess their partnerships and the impact of their choices on the larger world.

To listen to Sylvan Esso’s new single "WDID," follow the link provided.