The conclusion of November once brought excitement and anticipation for Spotify Wrapped, a yearly event showcasing users’ music listening data on the popular streaming platform. However, this year has seen a notable absence of buzz surrounding Spotify Wrapped due to various controversies that have plagued the streaming service in 2025.
One significant issue has been the ongoing criticism of Spotify’s artist compensation practices, with many artists expressing dissatisfaction with the platform’s royalty rates. Additionally, Spotify co-founder Daniel Ek’s involvement in a defense company and the platform’s handling of AI-generated music have further fueled discontent among users and artists alike.
Moreover, Spotify has faced legal challenges, including a class-action lawsuit alleging fraudulent streaming practices and another lawsuit accusing the platform of accepting payment for playlist promotions. The decision to run recruitment ads for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has also led to user backlash and calls for boycotts.
As a result, the shine has worn off for many users and industry professionals, leading to increased scrutiny of Spotify’s practices and ethics. The lack of enthusiasm for Spotify Wrapped this year reflects a broader trend of users reevaluating their relationship with the platform amidst ongoing controversies and concerns about artist compensation and platform transparency.