

The figurative Wayback machine, The literal Wayback machine, and more AI questions than answers.
Aug 12, 2025
The podcast dives into the Black Keys' bold decision to stop sharing music on Spotify and the fallout that ensued. It unpacks the ongoing tug-of-war between AI-generated content and traditional artists, revealing a tumultuous landscape in the music industry. The conversation also touches on Reddit's ban of the Wayback Machine, sparking debates on digital preservation. Plus, there's a nostalgic look back at the days of AOL dial-up, reflecting on how the early internet transformed our lives for better and worse.
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Black Keys' Spotify Holdout Reflection
- The Black Keys reflected on their decade-old Spotify holdout and its long-term career effects.
- They concluded the decision hindered momentum and contributed to later tour problems yet remained unapologetic.
AI Policy Remains Unclear
- Billboard framed many of the unresolved questions about AI and music without firm answers.
- Rob Levine's piece collects the admin's AI action plan and shows policy uncertainty after congressional edits.
AI Creators Need Human Oversight
- AI creators are establishing a presence on Spotify and social platforms but still rely heavily on human input.
- Successful AI music channels often mix human judgment and iterative work to gain traction.