Overview

• Massive Attack formally requested that Universal Music remove their catalogue from Spotify globally and prevent distribution on streaming platforms in Israel.
• The band tied the move to a coordinated boycott campaign and to reporting that Spotify CEO Daniel Ek invested heavily in Helsing, which develops military AI and drone-related technologies.
• Helsing responded, via reporting in Consequence Sound, that its systems support European defence, particularly Ukraine, not Gaza, and it emphasized separation from Spotify while inviting discussion on royalties.
• There has been no public confirmation from Universal Music or Spotify that removals or geo‑blocking have been implemented, as major labels control licensing and distribution decisions.
• Italian artists including Piero Pelù and Mannarino voiced similar objections, yet their music remains available on Spotify because rights‑holding labels have not pulled the tracks.