About this episode
In June 2025, indie veterans Deerhoof scrubbed their entire catalog from the world’s dominant streaming platform. The catalyst wasn't low royalties, but Spotify co-founder Daniel Ek’s investment in AI military technology through his investment firm Prima Materia. Greg Saunier and Satomi Matsuzaka explain why they are prioritizing their ethics over exposure. They argue that the "convenience" of streaming traps us in harmful systems. They’d prefer listeners explore alternative paths to hear their music. That’s why the band premiered their latest single on Craigslist. And it’s they half jokingly say they "would rather our fans steal our music than stream our music at this point."
SONGS DISCUSSED
Deerhoof: Immigrant Song, Scarcity is Manufactured, Life is Suffering, Return of the Return of the Fire Trick Star
MORE
Get Zach Tenorio's synth extraveganza 'Field Trip'
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Get every episode summarized
Each time Switched on Pop publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Switched on Pop
Questionable Country
Switched on Pop
Phoebe Bridgers opens her Moleskine
Switched on Pop
We have Confessions to make...
Switched on Pop
A piano lesson that will change how you listen (ft. Lang Lang)
Switched on Pop