02/09/2022
At Soul Fire Dance we use different music platforms, and frequently use Spotify in recent years. Therefore I feel it is important to recognize the social issues currently presented with this platform.
One thing I really appreciate about this platform, is the ability to spend countless hours exploring independent artists from around the world. Some of the artists we regularly support through streaming include Sudanese and Palestinian refugees, African and Arabic women fleeing patriarchal oppression, and minority populations who are marginalized in many ways. While the remunerations may not be as high as I would prefer, I am grateful I can support these artists who have limited means to distribute their music globally.
All web-based interfaces are riddled with ethical dilemmas, and I recognize people are hurt and concerned about some of the issues currently presented. I also see that people who can remove their content from platforms are in a place of privilege to do so, as they have other means of accruing sustainable income or have already accumulated independent wealth. Without a doubt I am supporting hundreds of artists who do not have that same privilege, and I will continue to do so.
Let’s continue to support all those artists who rely on us to stream their music. Please feel free to link artists or playlists in the comments, other commentary is discouraged. Thank you for supporting international independent artists.