tech
March 8, 2026
Ditch Spotify: how to actually support the bands and artists you love
A musician offers tips to helping your favorite artists thrive – from switching streamers to buying merch

TL;DR
- Many music streaming platforms do not fairly compensate artists.
- Consider switching to smaller streaming platforms like Bandcamp (80%-85% of sales to artist) or Tidal (approx. $0.013 per stream).
- Apple Music offers double Spotify's rate per stream.
- Merchandise sales are crucial for musicians, especially as touring can be financially challenging.
- Support local artists by attending shows and tuning into college radio stations.
- Heated laundry drying racks and sustainable leftover storage are presented as practical home solutions.
- Readers' favorite products in February included a reading journal and a nonstick pan.
- The Guardian is launching new series: 'Plastic-free life' and 'Do not disturb'.
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