Spotify examines Turkish editors following artist complaints and bribery accusations
In a recent development, streaming giant Spotify is currently under investigation in Turkey due to accusations of playlist manipulation, unfair royalty distribution, and potential abuse of market dominance.
The controversy began with user-created playlists that allegedly insulted religious and national values, including playlists referring to Turkey's first lady, Emine Erdogan. Examples of controversial playlist titles include "Songs Emine Erdogan listened to when her golden faucet broke" and "Emine Erdogan hotgirl playlist."
These allegations prompted inquiries by Turkey's Competition Authority, who are examining whether Spotify granted unfair visibility to certain artists, discriminated against independent musicians, and disrupted competition by favoring some creators over others.
Additionally, bribery allegations have emerged regarding playlist formation on Spotify. The investigation also focuses on the use of bot streaming and whether Spotify's local editors accepted bribes to manipulate playlist placements.
The Swedish-origin Spotify has started an investigation into its editors in Turkey following the Competition Authority's announcement. The headquarters is aiming to address the concerns raised by artists and the allegations against the platform.
Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism Batuhan Mumcu has called for legal action against Spotify for ignoring the sensitivities of the Turkish society. The Turkish government has also condemned these lists as offensive and incompatible with the cultural and moral values of the nation.
It's important to note that this is not the first time Spotify has faced controversy over its operations. In 2023, the company threatened to exit Uruguay over copyright legislation but eventually stayed after last-minute changes to the law.
Amid ongoing regulatory pressure and reputational damage, Spotify is reportedly considering suspending or completely ending its operations in Turkey.
[1] Competition Authority Announces Investigation into Spotify (July 4, 2023) [2] Artists Call for Action over Spotify's Alleged Playlist Manipulation (July 5, 2023) [3] Turkish Government Condemns Offensive Spotify Playlists (July 6, 2023) [4] Spotify Under Investigation for Market Dominance Abuse (July 7, 2023) [5] Internal Probe Launched by Spotify's Headquarters (July 8, 2023)
- The Turkish government has expressed discontent towards Spotify's operations, as the Turkish Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, Batuhan Mumcu, called for legal action against the streaming giant.
- The controversy surrounding Spotify in Turkey includes accusations of playlist manipulation, with titles like "Songs Emine Erdogan listened to when her golden faucet broke" and "Emine Erdogan hotgirl playlist" being among the problematic ones.
- Amid the investigations by the Competition Authority, Spotify is also under scrutiny for potential abuse of market dominance, unfair royalty distribution, and biased playlist placements through the use of bribes or bot streaming.
- As the investigation continues, Spotify's business in Turkey may be imperiled, with reports suggesting that the company could either suspend or permanently cease its operations in the country.
