Massive Attack’s New Music Will Skip Spotify in 2026 Release

Massive Attack plans to release new tracks in 2026, but Spotify won’t be part of the journey.

Massive Attack’s Bold Move Away From Spotify

If you’re a Massive Attack fan like me, you know how much their music has shaped the trip-hop genre and the soundtrack to countless late-night musings. So, hearing that their upcoming new music won’t be on Spotify is a curveball. The legendary Bristol trio announced on Instagram that starting next year, they’ll be dropping a "cache of work created in the recent past" — but with a notable caveat: it won’t be available on Spotify.

The band shared, “Tracks will be available physically and digitally via a new label, with a Spotify exception.” This isn’t just a random choice — it’s part of a growing artist movement pushing back against Spotify, especially following controversies like CEO Daniel Ek’s connections to military tech firm Helsing.

Why No Spotify? The Stand Against Streaming Giants

Massive Attack isn’t alone in this stance. Earlier this year, they joined other artists in pulling their music off Spotify as a protest against Ek’s ties with Helsing. It’s a powerful reminder that for some musicians, platforms are more than just distribution channels—they’re ethical battlegrounds.

Streaming services have undeniably changed how we experience music, making vast catalogs instantly accessible. But bands like Massive Attack highlight the tension: the convenience of streaming clashes with concerns over artist rights and corporate ethics. This Spotify exception signals Massive Attack’s commitment to these principles while still finding ways to share their art.

A Fresh Label and What It Means for Fans

Details about the “new label” remain under wraps. Massive Attack has had a long history with Virgin Records from their 1991 debut Blue Lines through to their 2010 album Heligoland. Since then, their only new release was the self-published 2020 EP Eutopia, which notably isn’t on streaming platforms either.

For fans, this could mean more exclusive or collectible formats—think vinyl, special edition CDs, or digital downloads directly from the band’s label. It’s a throwback to an era when music felt a bit more tangible, a kind of antidote to the ephemeral nature of playlists and algorithm-driven streams.

Touring and Advocacy: More Than Just Music

While new music is brewing behind the scenes, Massive Attack is also wrapping up their 2025 tour. Tonight (Nov. 13), they’ll perform in São Paulo, Brazil, as part of activities connected to the COP30 International Climate Change Summit in Belém. It’s not just about playing shows for them; Massive Attack has long been vocal advocates for reducing carbon emissions in the live music industry—a cause that resonates deeply in today’s climate-conscious world.

Looking ahead, Massive Attack is slated to headline the Primavera festivals in both Barcelona and Porto next summer. Fans hoping for a U.S. tour might be disappointed; the group canceled their first planned U.S. run since 2019 last October due to “unforeseen circumstances.”

Reflecting on Massive Attack’s Unique Approach

Massive Attack’s move to sidestep Spotify for their 2026 releases is a bold statement in today’s music landscape. It’s a reminder that artists can—and sometimes must—choose how their creations are shared with the world. Their blend of activism, artistic independence, and deep connection with fans keeps their legacy vibrant and relevant.

“From next year, we will release a cache of work created in the recent past... with a Spotify exception.” — Massive Attack

FAQ

• What new music is Massive Attack releasing in 2026?
  They plan to release a collection of new tracks recorded recently, distributed via a new label but not on Spotify.
• Why won’t Massive Attack’s new music be available on Spotify?
  The band is protesting the platform due to CEO Daniel Ek’s ties with a military tech company, aligning with other artists making similar moves.
• Where can fans listen to Massive Attack’s upcoming releases?
  The music will be available physically and digitally through their new label, although exact platforms haven’t been detailed.
• Is Massive Attack currently touring?
  Yes, they are concluding their 2025 tour with a show in São Paulo, linked to the COP30 Climate Summit.
• Will Massive Attack tour the U.S. soon?
  They canceled their planned U.S. tour dates in late 2023 due to unforeseen circumstances, and no new U.S. dates have been announced.

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