This week, Neil Young requested Spotify removed his music as he didn’t want to share a platform with Joe Rogan. Now, he is getting his way.

The legendary folk-rock star shared an open letter to his manager and label on his website, which has now been deleted. The letter detailed Young’s discomfort in having his music on the streaming service, Spotify whilst Joe Rogan’s podcast was also available on there. Not beating around the bush, Young wrote, “I want you to let Spotify know immediately TODAY that I want all my music off their platform. They can have [Joe] Rogan or Young. Not both.”

Why Is This Happening?

Neil Young has taken issue with some of Rogan’s comments and attitudes towards the Covid-19 pandemic and vaccinations. The spreading of misinformation by Rogan is what has prompted Young to take this action. His letter further said, “I am doing this because Spotify is spreading fake information about vaccines – potentially causing death to those who believe the disinformation being spread by them.”

Young’s manager, Frank Gironda confirmed the letter’s authenticity, telling The Daily Beast that this is “something that’s really important to Neil.”

Yesterday, Spotify agreed to remove Neil Young from its service, after a formal request from Warner Music, Young’s label. A spokesperson for Spotify said, “We want all the world’s music and audio content to be available to Spotify users. With that comes great responsibility in balancing both safety for listeners and freedom for creators.”

This decision displays the value the company places on Rogan, who is one of podcasting’s most popular and divisive personalities. Others have opposed Rogan’s views and comments on vaccinations previously. An open letter to Spotify, signed by over 1000 scientists, called for the implementation of a “misinformation policy”. This was in protest to Rogan’s “propagation of false and societally harmful assertions.” Rogan has been known to discourage young people from getting vaccinated, whilst also promoting unproven treatments for the virus.

Where to Listen to Neil Young

Fans of Neil Young can stream his music on Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Qobuz, a high-resolution streaming platform.

Although Spotify represents 60% of Young’s streaming listeners, according to his letter, he has taken issue with the service before for its low quality audio. Whether Neil Young’s music will be available on Spotify again is unknown, however a spokesperson said, “We regret Neil’s decision to remove his music from Spotify, but hope to welcome him back soon.”