Spotify's Loud & Clear report showcases earnings data for artists, coinciding with criticism on streaming economics from author Liz Pelly's book Mood Machine.
Despite Spotify's positive narrative, revelations of CEO Daniel Ek and co-founder Martin Lorentzon cashing out millions of shares contrast with artists' financial struggles.
The $10bn paid by Spotify in royalties mostly benefits record labels and publishers, with only a fraction reaching the musicians.
While Spotify praises its contribution to the music industry and artists, there are concerns about widening financial disparities.
A few top artists earn significantly from Spotify, while smaller acts face challenges in generating substantial income.
Although Spotify claims progress with more artists earning higher royalties, the reality remains challenging for many musicians.
Spotify's payment disputes with songwriters, including efforts to reduce payments, have stirred controversy.
Despite criticisms, Spotify's annual report aims to offer transparency, a practice not commonly seen among other streaming services or record labels.
Spotify's effort to provide insights into revenue distribution is seen as a positive step in an industry often shrouded in secrecy.
Loud & Clear's data, while informative, is viewed by some as a distraction from underlying issues of economic inequality in the music industry.