

We should have clear lines around content and take action when they are crossed, but canceling voices is a slippery slope. And I want to make one point very clear – I do not believe that silencing Joe is the answer. While I strongly condemn what Joe has said and I agree with his decision to remove past episodes from our platform, I realize some will want more. He also issued his own apology over the weekend. Following these discussions and his own reflections, he chose to remove a number of episodes from Spotify. I think it’s important you’re aware that we’ve had conversations with Joe and his team about some of the content in his show, including his history of using some racially insensitive language. I know this situation leaves many of you feeling drained, frustrated and unheard. Not only are some of Joe Rogan’s comments incredibly hurtful – I want to make clear that they do not represent the values of this company. There are no words I can say to adequately convey how deeply sorry I am for the way The Joe Rogan Experience controversy continues to impact each of you.

Young has been followed by a few other artists and creators. The current boycott was started by Neil Young, who two weeks ago demanded Spotify pull his songs or drop Rogan’s podcast. The latest controversy over COVID misinformation on Rogan’s podcast has gone beyond the low-level boil that previously accompanied outrage over his show. Rogan has been a controversial figure ever since Spotify inked its exclusive deal with him in 2020, given his friendliness with several right-wing personalities he has hosted on “The Joe Rogan Experience.” He also issued his own apology over the weekend.” “If we believe in having an open platform as a core value of the company, then we must also believe in elevating all types of creators, including those from underrepresented communities and a diversity of backgrounds,” the CEO wrote.Īccording to Ek, Spotify has had conversations “with Joe and his team about some of the content in his show, including his history of using some racially insensitive language.
