Spotify founder Daniel Ek is stepping down as CEO
VergeOCT 1
Spotify Founder Daniel Ek to Step Down as CEO in 2026
Above: Daniel Ek, co-founder and CEO of Spotify, at the Acquired LIVE event in San Francisco, Calif. on Sept. 10, 2024. Image copyright: David Paul Morris/Contributor/Bloomberg/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
Daniel Ek's transition to executive chairman represents a natural evolution for Spotify after nearly two decades of remarkable growth under his leadership. The company has revolutionized the music industry, grown to over 700 million users, and achieved sustained profitability while paying out billions to artists and creators worldwide.
Narrative B
Spotify's leadership change comes at a time when the platform has faced serious censorship issues targeting conservative voices. The company ramped up its censorship after leftist backlash to Joe Rogan's podcast deal, forming a progressive Safety Advisory Council to police content. Steve Bannon's WarRoom was banned for five years before finally being restored in 2025.