Xiu Xiu Announces Departure from Spotify, Citing Artist Compensation Concerns
San Francisco, CA – July 24, 2025 – Acclaimed experimental rock band Xiu Xiu has announced their decision to remove their music from the Spotify streaming platform. The band cited growing concerns over artist compensation and the sustainability of streaming models for musicians as the primary drivers behind this significant move.
In a statement released today, Xiu Xiu expressed their regret over the decision but emphasized the necessity of taking a stand for fairer treatment of artists in the digital music landscape. The band, known for their boundary-pushing sound and unflinching lyrical honesty, has been a consistent presence in the independent music scene for over two decades.
The announcement comes amidst a broader conversation within the music industry regarding the economics of streaming. Many artists, particularly those in niche genres or with a less mainstream appeal, have voiced concerns that the per-stream royalty rates offered by major platforms do not adequately reflect the value of their work or the costs associated with creating and promoting music.
While specific details of Xiu Xiu’s agreement with their distributor or the exact timeline for the music’s removal were not immediately available, the band’s action is likely to resonate with other artists grappling with similar financial realities. This decision signals a growing sentiment among some creators to explore alternative avenues for distributing their music and engaging with their fanbase, potentially prioritizing direct sales, Bandcamp, or other platforms that offer more favorable revenue splits.
Xiu Xiu’s decision to withdraw from Spotify highlights the ongoing challenges faced by musicians in navigating the complexities of the modern music industry. As the debate around streaming royalties continues, the actions of influential independent artists like Xiu Xiu are being closely watched by both their peers and the wider music community. Fans who wish to continue supporting the band are encouraged to seek out their music through other available channels, such as direct purchase from the band’s official website or other digital retailers.
Xiu Xiu to Pull Music From Spotify
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pitchfork.com published ‘Xiu Xiu to Pull Music From Spotify’ at 2025-07-24 17:33. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.