Spotify has removed approximately 750,000 independent tracks over alleged "artificial stream" violations, prompting over 5,000 artists to sign a "Restore Our Music" petition demanding reinstatement.

According to Spotify's terms and conditions, third-party promotional services advertising streams for payment are prohibited and can result in music removal. DistroKid, partly owned by Spotify, confirmed these takedowns affected all distributors, not just their platform.

Many affected artists claim they never used fake streaming services. Buffalo-based artist Dylan Toole initiated the petition, which has gathered over 5,100 signatures. Artists report having their entire catalogs removed, including tracks with minimal monthly plays.

Some positive developments have emerged:

• Several removed tracks are gradually being restored
• Dylan Toole's "Cold Hearted Love Story" album has been fully relisted
• DistroKid has introduced a counter-notification form for appeals

However, other artists continue to face challenges. Manchester-based Heavy Salad reported no response from Spotify or DistroKid after two weeks of counterclaims, with their page still showing zero albums and reduced singles.

The situation remains fluid as artists navigate the appeals process and await further communication from Spotify regarding their removed content.

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