Are There Really Fake Artists On Spotify?

This mystery began when Music Business Weekly reported that a number of artists only seemed to exist on Spotify playlists - mostly the generic, mood-based ones like “Chill,” “Focus,” “Sleep,” etc. Together with Music Ally, MBW discovered that the artists and producers credited to these songs are a few individuals who live in Stockholm, the Spotify main base. This situation brings up some important questions, like: is Spotify paying them directly to create these songs, even though a normal musician makes practically nothing from being on the app?
Is This The End Of Soundcloud?

Last week, the streaming service laid off nearly half their staff (some just weeks into the beginning of their careers there), with the company’s future beyond 2017 unclear. Now it seems they may be folding much sooner, possibly within the next few months. TechCrunch detailed the dire situation, which was then refuted by Soundcloud, and re-refuted by TechCrunch. You can read the contrasting statements here. And remember, we’ll always have Bandcamp.
Other Highlights

Watch another Kesha video, stream the new Waxahatchee album, The Breeders are going on tour, major venus are fighting over artists, the Seattle grunge scene is coming to Broadway, check out Brittany Howard’s new band Bermuda Triangle, speculate on Kid Rock's possible run for Senate, & remember Jet?

NEWS ROUNDUPWhat's Up With Spotify + Soundcloud? and More