Exploring 'Espresso' and Spotify's Controversies

This chapter examines the unexpected popularity of Sabrina Carpenter's song 'Espresso' on Spotify and the frustration it has sparked among listeners. It delves into the historical context of payola in the music industry, the mechanics of Spotify's algorithms, and the implications of practices like 'discovery mode' on artist visibility. Through a critique of these dynamics, the speakers raise important questions about the future of music promotion and the fairness of streaming platforms.