Spotify Faces Cease and Desist Order from NMPA for Unlicensed Content

Spotify Faces Cease and Desist Order from National Music Publishers Association

Spotify, the popular music streaming platform, is in hot water after receiving a cease and desist order from the National Music Publishers Association (NMPA). The NMPA has accused Spotify of hosting lyrics, music videos, and podcast content without the proper licensing, putting the company at risk of copyright liability.

The NMPA demands that Spotify remove the unlicensed content immediately or face legal consequences for continued use. This comes after Spotify was reported to have cut $150 million in royalties from music publishers and songwriters, citing the addition of audiobooks to certain subscription plans as the reason for the reduction.

In response to the cease and desist order, a Spotify spokesperson dismissed the claims as a “press stunt” and defended the platform’s commitment to hosting licensed content. The spokesperson highlighted Spotify’s record payments to benefit songwriters in 2023 and stated that the company is on track to exceed that amount in 2024.

Despite Spotify’s claims of a clear process for rightsholders to address unlicensed content, the NMPA remains adamant in its stance against the streaming giant. The full letter from the NMPA to Spotify can be viewed for further details on the matter.

As the battle between Spotify and the NMPA continues, the music streaming platform faces mounting pressure to address the licensing issues and ensure that all content hosted on its platform is properly authorized. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.