Why?

He doesn’t want his music associated with a service that would also play host to noted anti-vaxxer and conspiracy theorist Joe Rogan and his podcast.

I get it. I do. Neil Young is very pro-vaccination and wants people to do their part and be responsible during this pandemic. It’s a very noble gesture. And I agree with his stance regarding vaccines and the pandemic even if I’m not a fan of Young or his music in any way, shape, or form.

Initially, I didn’t agree with this approach thinking it was disingenuous because most podcasts are hosted/featured through multiple services. So why just single out Spotify? I thought there was something not being said.

Then I did some research and realized that The Joe Rogan Experience is hosted exclusively on Spotify with highlights reposted to YouTube.

I was shocked. I figured Rogan, being the narcissist he is, would want his show in as many venues as possible. But, hey, money.

I still wonder, though, why Young would insist on what is effectively censorship when he’s Mister “Keep on Rockin’ in the Free World.” Sure, what Rogan is espousing is complete bupkis and horrible misinformation and blatant lies for shock value. But the Constitution kinda affords him that freedom, for better or for worse.

I don’t like it. I want Rogan to STFU. But supporting censorship doesn’t seem the way to do it.

I have also made an informed decision to not listen to or believe Rogan. I’d like to think others would as well, but this is the modern Planet Earth. People are stupid. And stupid is as stupid does.