THURSDAY Call For Spotify To Remove All ICE Recruitment Ads

Thursday have publicly spoken out against Spotify, calling on the streaming giant to remove all advertisements recruiting for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The New Jersey post-hardcore outfit shared their statement today, October 16th, urging fans to take action and hold the company accountable.

Ads promoting ICE recruitment have recently begun appearing for users on Spotify’s lower-tier pricing options, offering a reported $50,000 signing bonus. The campaign has sparked major backlash, with many users and artists denouncing the platform’s decision to run the ads.

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A Spotify representative told Newsweek:

“This advertisement is part of a broad campaign the U.S. government is running across television, streaming, and online channels. The content does not violate our advertising policies. However, users can mark any ad with a thumbs up or thumbs down to help manage their ads preferences.”

Despite the criticism, Spotify confirmed that the ads would not be pulled from the platform. The decision has fueled widespread debate, particularly amid ongoing controversies surrounding immigration policy under the Trump administration.

Many users have reportedly deleted the app in protest, while others have joined artists in boycotting the service.

Thursday released a statement addressing their stance:

“Thursday is an independent band and we join the wider independent musical community in calling upon Spotify to remove any and all ICE recruitment advertising from its platform.

A single voice is tiny but collective action is mighty, so please join us in publicly asking Spotify to remove all ICE advertising immediately.

Write these words back down.”

As of now, Thursday’s music — including their recent independently released singles — remains available on Spotify.

This controversy follows months of criticism toward Spotify CEO Daniel Ek, who came under fire earlier this year for his investments in military technology companies through his firm Prima Materia. Following mounting pressure, Ek is set to step down as CEO on January 1st, 2026, though he will remain involved with the company as Executive Chairman.

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