Artists Debate Leaving Spotify as Monetization and Ownership Take Center Stage

A growing number of independent artists are weighing whether to remove their music from platforms like Spotify and Apple Music in favor of direct to fan monetization. In a recent episode of No Labels Necessary, Brandman Kory broke down the pros and cons of artists exiting traditional digital streaming platforms, highlighting examples from creators like LaRussell and Jack Harlow and analyzing commentary from other influencers like Tom Dupree III.

The Arguments for Leaving DSPs

Kory opened the conversation by referencing several artists who have taken steps to remove their catalogs from major streaming services. Chief among them is LaRussell, an independent artist who has been vocal about reclaiming control over his music. By removing his songs from Spotify and Apple Music, LaRussell has redirected his fans to his website, where he sells music directly, collects fan data, and retains full ownership of the content.

This approach centers on two goals: maximizing revenue and deepening fan relationships. Artists like LaRussell argue that streaming revenue pays too little to be sustainable, especially for smaller acts, and that building an email or phone list is far more valuable than earning fractions of a penny per stream.

Kory also brought in a viral video from Tom Dupree III, who compared Spotify and other DSPs to fast food chains. He explained that just as McDonald’s is mass produced and inexpensive, DSPs offer music in a way that is built for scale, not artistry or depth. If an artist wants to be paid more or treated with more respect, they may need to leave the fast food model behind.

Counterpoints: Discovery and Scale Still Matter

Despite the push for independence, Kory cautioned that abandoning DSPs entirely comes with significant tradeoffs. Chief among them is discovery. DSPs are still the primary platform for music discovery, especially for casual listeners who are unlikely to purchase music without first streaming it.

Kory argued that while artists like LaRussell have a strong niche audience, most independent acts benefit from the algorithmic exposure that Spotify provides. He warned against “blowing up too early” and removing music before fully understanding how to monetize an audience at scale. For artists without a solid direct to fan infrastructure, this move can backfire.

He also noted that DSPs act as a "resume builder." For gatekeepers like promoters, labels, and playlist curators, an artist’s streaming numbers often validate their reach and appeal. Pulling music from these platforms can make it harder for artists to appear credible to industry stakeholders.

Hybrid Strategies and Ownership Models

Rather than choosing an all or nothing approach, Kory suggested hybrid models may be more practical for most artists. These models involve keeping music on DSPs for exposure while simultaneously offering exclusive releases, merch bundles, or early access through personal websites or fan platforms.

Jack Harlow was cited as an example of an artist who has balanced both commercial success and ownership. Although he participates fully in DSP ecosystems, Harlow has also built a brand that allows him to move beyond platform dependency. His success points to the value of branding and artist identity, which can be monetized across several channels.

Kory encouraged artists to think in terms of layers: using DSPs for visibility, while building parallel ecosystems for revenue. He emphasized that owning the fan relationship through email lists, text communities, or private platforms is the key to long term sustainability.

Monetization Beyond Streaming

Another theme explored was the need for alternative monetization strategies. Kory highlighted merch, live performances, content creation, and sync licensing as viable income streams that often outperform streaming for independent acts.

He emphasized that the most financially successful indie artists tend to diversify their revenue streams and view streaming as a top of funnel tool rather than the end goal. While some artists hope to make a living from streaming alone, the reality is that only a small percentage can do so consistently without external income.

Platforms like Bandcamp, Patreon, and artist owned marketplaces were referenced as better options for fan funded success. Kory suggested that artists who use these platforms effectively often create more intimate relationships with their fans, which in turn supports long term viability.

Understanding Audience Behavior

Kory also stressed the importance of meeting audiences where they are. While it may be tempting to force fans off Spotify or Apple Music, the average listener is unlikely to change habits unless there is a clear incentive. He pointed out that fans value convenience, and friction in the listening experience can limit growth.

However, for super fans who are invested in an artist's career, offering paid content or exclusives can create deeper engagement. Kory advised artists to segment their audience and tailor strategies accordingly, rather than applying a blanket approach to all listeners.

He concluded that removing music from DSPs can work, but only under the right circumstances, typically for artists who have built infrastructure, understand audience behavior, and have alternate monetization plans in place