Spotify gets into the lobbying game by hiring four firms in DC

If you wanted definitive proof that Spotify has moved beyond its startup status and into the big leagues, Politico’s report that the company has hired not one but four lobby firms in Washington DC could be it. 

The music streaming service has enlisted the four firms to help lobby on issues such as licensing, platform neutrality and competition. 

The current legislative agenda is already seeing movement when it comes to music rights management and licensing, and an extensive study recently published by the US Copyright Office has called for a number of reforms to be put in place. 

The changes could have a direct impact on the way Spotify operates, so it makes sense for the company to protect its interests by making sure its voice is heard. The efforts are particularly important given that both Apple and Google already have a large presence in Washington and offer or plan to offer services that will compete with Spotify.

Even though Spotify’s model could be impacted by the upcoming legislation, it is fair to note that internet radio services like Pandora face the most uncertainty since they operate under a compulsory license and the royalty rates they have to pay are set for the most part by the courts.

(Andrea Leonelli)