Twenty years after its launch, Spotify’s impact on the music landscape is being re-examined. American journalist Liz Pelly has analyzed how the Swedish streaming platform commercializes culture. Her work details Spotify’s extensive use of data collection and algorithmic practices. Pelly’s analysis suggests Spotify functions as a significant “big data” company. This data informs not only music recommendations but also shapes industry trends and artist visibility. The investigation highlights a shift in the relationship between music, technology, and commerce, raising questions about the platform’s influence on artistic creation and consumption. Ultimately, Pelly’s reporting reveals a complex system where data is central to Spotify’s business model and cultural impact.