Neil Young and Joni Mitchell denounce the presence on Spotify of Joe Rogan’s podcast, known for his misinformation about covid vaccines. Both have decided to withdraw their music from the platform.
Rock star Neil Young had told music streaming platform Spotify to remove his music. In a letter, he denounced the presence of Joe Rogan among the platform’s podcasts. This program, listened to by millions of people and called The Joe Rogan Experience, has come under legitimate criticism, particularly from the scientific community, given the anti-vaccine misinformation being circulated there during the pandemic. An open letter had been signed by hundreds of doctors.
The platform had decided to keep the podcast – which is present there exclusively due to a $ 100 million agreement. Neil Young’s music had therefore indeed been removed a few days ago. Canadian singer Joni Mitchell has decided to follow this sling.
“Lies that cost people’s lives”
In a message entitled “I support Neil Young”, and posted on his website on Friday January 28, 2022, Joni Mitchell explains his approach: “ Irresponsible people are spreading lies that are costing people’s lives. I stand in solidarity with Neil Young and the global scientific and medical communities on this issue. »
While posting this message, the Canadian singer also relayed the full open letter addressed to Spotify, signed by doctors.
A few days ago, WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus had supported also the withdrawal of Neil Young: Thank you for standing up against misinformation and inaccuracies around Covid-19 vaccination. The public and private sector, especially social media platforms, media, individuals — we all have a role to play in ending this pandemic and this infodemic. »
Little by little, the slingshot could end up costing Spotify dearly, both in images and in listening. Adding the listenings of Joni Mitchell and Neil Young, that makes a little more than 10 million listeners per month.