Mood MachineThe Rise of Spotify and the Costs of the Perfect Playlist.3.6 out of 5
3.6 out of 5
Hot take
Mood Machine by Liz Pelly is a piercing exposé of Spotify’s grip on the music industry, blending deep reporting with sharp cultural analysis. Drawing on over a hundred interviews with insiders, ex-employees, and artists, the book unpacks how streaming and playlist culture have fundamentally transformed how music is created, distributed, and valued, often to the detriment of musicians. Pelly digs into controversial topics like 'ghost' musicians, algorithm-driven listening habits, and low-cost content programs that favor platform profits over artist welfare. While the book is lauded for its thorough research and thought-provoking critique, some readers found its dense style less engaging and felt it recapped well-known industry criticisms without breaking new ground. Still, for anyone invested in music’s future, Mood Machine is an essential, if occasionally bleak, read.
How was this take was created?
Pros
Extensively researched and well-sourced
Provides rare insider perspectives on Spotify and streaming culture
Brings attention to artist advocacy and the need for industry reform
Addresses major issues like low payouts, algorithmic curation, and playlist manipulation
Provokes critical thinking about digital music consumption
Cons
Dense prose can be a slog for casual readers
Some chapters repeat long-debated criticisms without offering new solutions
Occasionally feels more like a teardown than a balanced exploration
Enjoyment may be limited if you're already familiar with streaming debates
Key Features
Investigative journalism on Spotify's business model
Analysis of the streaming economy's impact on artists
Interviews with industry insiders, musicians, and ex-employees
Discussion of playlist culture and algorithmic listening
Coverage of artist-led activism and alternate music models
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